A Guide to Select Oil Seals for Your Industrial Application

An oil seal is a type of seal used in various industrial equipment to close the gap between its moving and non-moving components. These oil seals help prevent lubricant leakage at high pressures and block foreign components from entering the machinery. With such an important role to play, these oil seals must be chosen carefully. This post discusses the types of oil seals and also guides you through the important factors to choose an appropriate oil seal for your industry.

Types of Oil Seals – Based on Materials 

There is a wide range of seals to select according to the type of material. Some of the types of oil seals are as follows:

• Rubber Oil Seals:

Rubber seals are the most common types of sealing solutions preferred for tight sealing. Rubber seals are corrosion resistant and are used in both high and low-pressure applications. Nitrile, polyacrylate, Viton®, silicone, and polytetrafluoroethylene are a few common types of rubber materials used for this purpose. Each material possesses the typical capability, so, you must choose the rubber material carefully for your application.

Rubber seals are the most common types of sealing solutions preferred for tight sealing. Rubber seals are corrosion resistant and are used in both high and low-pressure applications. Nitrile, polyacrylate, Viton®, silicone, and polytetrafluoroethylene are a few common types of rubber materials used for this purpose. Each material possesses the typical capability, so, you must choose the rubber material carefully for your application.

• Metal Cased Oil Seals:

These seals feature stamped metal cases with an elastomer bonded sealing lip. Carbon steel is the metal used for making the case. The case protects the lip seal during installation. Metal encased seals are generally used for high-pressure or high-temperature applications.  

These seals feature stamped metal cases with an elastomer bonded sealing lip. Carbon steel is the metal used for making the case. The case protects the lip seal during installation. Metal encased seals are generally used for high-pressure or high-temperature applications.

• Leather Oil Seals:

These seals possess good running properties and are generally preferred for abrasive applications. The seals are usually used for shafts that possess surface roughness higher than rubber seals.

These seals possess good running properties and are generally preferred for abrasive applications. The seals are usually used for shafts that possess surface roughness higher than rubber seals.

7 Important Factors to Consider When Choosing Oil Seals

With varieties of seals available, choosing the right seal for application can be a daunting task. The following factors will help make the right selection. 

1. Lubricant: If choosing lubricated seals ensure they are continuously lubricated with oil that possesses appropriate viscosity required for the application and the lubricant is compatible with the elastomer material of seals.
2. Shaft Finishing: A good surface finishing of shafts gives a very effective oil sealing. The ground or polished shafts with concentric finish marks provide the best sealing that prevents leakage even during the shaft rotations. Hence, it is important to make sure that the shaft finishing is well maintained.
3. Shaft and Bore Tolerance: The seals must be strong enough to tolerate the pressure and vibrations caused by shaft and bores. The authenticity of metal and elastomer material is something that makes the shaft and bore tolerance possible. Therefore, check if the material meets these requirements before buying the seal.
4. Shaft Hardness: The life expectancy of a seal is measured on the basis of the hardness of its shaft. A shaft must possess a Rockwell hardness of 30 or above. When a seal is exposed to abrasive contaminants or high pressure, this RC hardness protects the seal from getting damaged. Hence, it is an essential factor.
5. Temperature: The temperature of the process should not exceed the temperature of the seal elastomer. Any increase or decrease in temperature may affect the sealing capability of the seal. Hence, it is an important point to be considered.
6. Pressure: Most seals are designed for applications where they may be subjected to pressures as low as 8 psi. However, if they are subjected to even low pressures then pressure relief must be ensured.
7. Shaft Speed: Shaft speed depends on many factors including shaft finish, its concentricity, the type of liquid being transferred, and the type of oil seal material. So each of these factors must be considered to achieve a maximum shaft speed. 

In addition to the above-given factors, sourcing high-quality seals from a trusted manufacturer are quite important.  SSP Seals provides high-quality

In addition to the above-given factors, sourcing high-quality seals from a trusted manufacturer are quite important. SSP Seals provides high-quality oil seals for industrial applications in automotive, oil and energy, and other sectors. The company can provide seals made of a wide range of materials including PTFE, Viton, Silicone, Nitrile, and so on.

Related Post

We just discovered that one of the seals on our pumping system is leaking. Do you have any ideas as to what could have caused this, and can you offer some advice for selecting a good seal?

The main causes of external lubricant leakage from pumping systems, hydraulic machines, gearcases and sumps are the wrong selection, improper application, poor installation and inadequate maintenance practices that are applied to sealing systems.

These problems can be overcome through a better understanding of the types of sealing materials available, redefined selection procedures and the consistent application of sound replacement and maintenance practices.

A number of variables must be considered when selecting oil seals. There are nine factors that designers and maintenance engineers must evaluate when oil seals are specified:

Shaft Speed

The maximum allowable shaft speed is a function of the shaft finish, runout, housing bore and shaft concentricity, type of fluid being sealed and the type of oil seal material.

Temperature

The temperature range of the mechanism in which the seal is installed must not exceed the temperature range of the seal elastomer.

Pressure

Most conventional oil seals are designed only to withstand very low-pressure applications (about 8 psi or less). If additional internal pressure is present or anticipated, pressure relief is necessary.

Shaft Hardness

Longer seal life can be expected with shafts having a Rockwell (RC) hardness of 30 or more. When exposed to abrasive contamination, the hardness should be increased to RC 60.

Shaft Surface Finish

Most effective sealing is obtained with optimum shaft surface finishes. The sealing efficiency is affected by the direction of the finish tool marks and the spiral lead. Best sealing results are obtained with polished or ground shafts with concentric (no spiral lead) finish marks. If you must use shafts with spiral finish leads, they should lead toward the fluid when the shaft rotates.

Concentricity

When the bore and shaft centers are misaligned, seal life will be shortened because the wear will be concentrated on one side of the sealing lip.

Shaft and Bore Tolerances

The best seal performance is achieved when close shaft and bore tolerances are present. Other factors include shaft eccentricity, end play and vibration.

Runout

Runout must be kept to a minimum. Movement of the center of rotation is usually caused by bearing wobble or shaft whip. When coupled with misalignment, this problem is compounded. Contrary to popular belief and common practice, the installation of flexible couplings cannot correct or compensate for misalignment.

Lubricant

Seals perform much better and longer when they are continuously lubricated with an oil that has the correct viscosity for the application and that is compatible with the seal lip elastomer material. The consideration of seal incompatibility, particularly with certain additives and some synthetic lubricants, should not be ignored, but unfortunately very often is.

 Machines play a crucial role in keeping our world functioning efficiently. We depend on them heavily to ensure that everything runs smoothly. This dependence often leads us to concentrate on the larger parts of these machines. However, we should recognize the smaller yet vital components like oil seals. These seemingly minor parts are key to maintaining a machine’s efficiency. Oil seals keep lubricants inside the machinery as protectors and block out harmful contaminants. Their straightforward but essential function is vital for the seamless operation of our machines.

That’s why choosing proper sealing for a railcar component, an automobile, or a heavy type of machinery helps keep them running properly without any failures. And that’s where the magic of measuring and understanding different oil seals typescomes in. It’s not just about picking any seal; it’s about finding the perfect fit for your needs. 

So, let’s dive into this blog to understand how to measure and select the ideal oil seal for your machinery. 

What are Oil Seals? 

Oil seals, also known as shaft seals or lip seals, are critical components in machinery used to seal pressurized systems, maintain lubricants, and exclude contaminants. These seals are often made of nitrile rubber, silicone, or polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), providing the flexibility and durability needed to keep a tight seal under varying conditions. An oil seal has a metal casing to keep it firm and a sealing lip to prevent fluid loss. 

They are frequently used in automotive, industrial, and manufacturing applications, critical to machine smooth and efficient operation. Elements such as the material’s compatibility with the fluid and the temperature range of the seal determine the efficacy of oil seals. 

Oil Seals Types

1.Rotary Shaft Seals: These seals protect bearings from impurities and prevent lubrication leakage in rotating machinery parts. They guarantee that the machine’s moving components run smoothly and last long.

2.Hydraulic Seals: Hydraulic seals are often used in hydraulic cylinders and designed for high-pressure settings. They protect fluid systems by preventing fluid leakage at excessive pressure.

3.Axial Seals: Axial seals are important components in pumps and valves since they are used largely for axial motions. They offer excellent sealing in applications where pieces move parallel to the seal axis.

4.Static Seals: These types of seals are Ideal for circumstances when the sealing pieces move very little or at all. Static seals keep a seal in place while stationary, avoiding leakage in fixed joints.

5.Custom Seals: When regular seals fail to suit the unique needs of a particular application, custom seals are the go-to answer. They are custom-made to match specific dimensions and circumstances, producing excellent sealing performance.

Understanding these oil seals types is essential to choose the perfect one for your machines. 

Measuring Oil Seals

The accuracy of measuring oil seals is paramount. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

• Measurement of Diameter:

-Inner Diameter (ID): To determine the seal’s inner diameter, measure across its interior. This ensures the seal can adequately fit onto the shaft it’s designed to protect.

 – Outer Diameter (OD): To find the seal’s outer diameter, measure across the exterior of the seal. This dimension is critical for ensuring the seal fits appropriately within the hole or housing in which it is installed.

These dimensions are critical for ensuring the seal fits securely and efficiently in its intended location, resulting in maximum performance and protection.

• Width Measurement:

Simply measure the width of the seal from one edge to the other. This width ensures the seal fits correctly in its allotted housing area. This dimension must be correct for the seal to function effectively and offer the necessary protection.

• Type of Sealing Lip:

Determine whether the seal has a single or double lip. This feature is significant because it affects how the seal works against the surface it is sealing. A single lip is easier, and seals in basic settings; on the other hand, a double lip seal provides enhanced protection and is better suited for demanding environments where extra sealing is necessary. Numerous reputable suppliers of aftermarket parts in India offer high-quality oil seals for various needs.

• Material Composition: 

Determine the seal’s substance, which might be nitrile, silicone, or Viton. The material determines how effectively the seal can withstand various temperatures and chemicals. Each material has strengths and is suitable for specific conditions, so choosing the right one is crucial for the seal’s effectiveness.

Selecting the Right Oil Seal

After measuring, you must select the appropriate type of seal for your needs. Bear in mind:

• Operating Conditions: Consider the temperature, pressure, and general environment where the seal will be employed. These criteria have a significant impact on the seal selection.
• Shaft Speed: Think about how quickly the shaft rotates. Different speeds may necessitate different types of seals for optimal performance.
• Fluid Type: The type of fluid encountered by the seal is critical. This determines the best seal material for compatibility and durability.

There are various oil seals types available to suit different needs, but selecting the appropriate oil seal is crucial for your machine’s performance. 

Installation Tips

Proper installation is just as important as selecting the appropriate seal. Here are some basic guidelines to follow:

• Cleanliness is Key: Ensure the seal and its housing are clean and debris-free before installation. This helps to guarantee a perfect fit and seal.
• Handle with Care: Sharp tools should be avoided during installation as they might harm the seal.
• Lubricate Before Installing: Before installing the seal, apply a small lubricant coating on it. This simplifies installation and improves seal performance.

Many top rubber products manufacturers in India now make user-friendly oil seals, frequently including installation guidelines. However, it is still advisable to have professionals perform the inspections and repairs to ensure everything is done correctly.

Maintenance and Replacement

Inspection and replacement of worn oil seals are critical for preventing leaks and contamination in machinery. Consider the operational environment, as severe temperatures might accelerate wear. Adhering to a standard replacement plan and preserving maintenance records increases equipment lifespan and dependability.

Read More – Things you should know before buying rubber oil seals .

Get High-Quality Oil Seals from Sujan Industries 

Understanding how to measure and select the properoil seals is critical for maintaining the integrity and performance of machinery. A good oil seal does more than just prevent leaks and keep out contaminants; it also helps extend the life of your machinery, reducing the need for repairs and avoiding costly downtime. Investing time in selecting the right seal is a smart move that pays off in the long run. 

For high-quality oil seals and rubber products, Sujan Industries is your go-to answer. We offer a range of top-notch products tailored to meet your specific needs. Known for their quality and commitment to excellence, contact our expertsfor durable and practical sealing solutions.