Seal Rings
A seal ring, also referred to as a shaft seal or grease seal, is a vital mechanical component tasked with preventing the escape of lubricants and fluids from various machinery components. These rings are typically crafted from elastomeric materials like rubber, silicone, Viton etc. The anatomy of a seal ring primarily comprises two components: the sealing lip and the metal casing. The sealing lip functions to establish a secure barrier between moving machine parts while facilitating essential movement.
One exemplary application showcasing the efficacy of seal rings is within automotive engines. In this context, seal rings play a pivotal role in containing motor oils within their designated compartments and safeguarding against contamination by external elements such as dirt and debris. Beyond automotive settings, seal rings find utility wherever rotating equipment interfaces with stationary parts, such as in industrial pumps or hydraulic cylinders.
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Seal rings are available in a range of sizes tailored to fit various machinery components accurately. The selection of the appropriate size and type for specific applications is crucial to ensure optimal performance and durability for your equipment.
Basic Construction
Functionality You Will Love
01
Design
Oil seals, also known as shaft seals or rotary seals, typically consist of three main components:
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Outer Metal Case: The outer metal case provides structural support and rigidity to the seal. It also serves as a mounting surface to install the seal into the housing or bore.
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Elastomeric Sealing Lip: The sealing lip is the primary component responsible for preventing fluid leakage. It is made of a flexible elastomeric material such as rubber or synthetic polymer. The lip is designed to make a dynamic seal against the rotating shaft, maintaining contact to prevent oil from escaping and contaminants from entering the machinery.
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Spring: Many oil seals incorporate a spring to help maintain consistent contact pressure between the sealing lip and the shaft. The spring ensures that the lip remains in contact with the shaft surface, even as the shaft experiences variations in speed, temperature, or vibration.
02
Function
Oil seals serve the critical function of preventing lubricants, such as oil or grease, from leaking out of machinery while also preventing contaminants from entering. They create a barrier between the internal components of the machinery and the external environment, ensuring smooth operation and longevity of the equipment.
When the shaft rotates, the sealing lip of the oil seal makes continuous contact with the surface of the shaft, forming a dynamic seal. This seal prevents oil from leaking along the shaft and into surrounding areas. Additionally, the seal prevents dust, dirt, water, and other contaminants from infiltrating the machinery, which could lead to premature wear, corrosion, or damage.
03
Movements
Oil seals accommodate various types of movements that occur within machinery:
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Rotary Motion: Oil seals are primarily designed to accommodate rotary motion, where the shaft rotates within the seal. The sealing lip maintains continuous contact with the rotating shaft, effectively sealing against oil leakage.
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Axial Movement: In some applications, the shaft may experience axial movement, either due to thermal expansion or mechanical forces. Oil seals are designed to flexibly accommodate this axial movement while still maintaining a secure seal.
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Radial Movement: Oil seals may also need to accommodate radial movement, where the shaft shifts position slightly off-center. The flexibility of the elastomeric sealing lip allows it to adjust to radial movements while still maintaining effective sealing performance.
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