A good example where the use of this seal is inevitable is in a gear box or a pump. In some instances, the seal is referred to as grease, dichtungstechnik, bearing or oil seal. Apart from preventing the ring lubricants from leaking, these seals also come in handy to enhance the performance of bearings by preventing premature failure or damage.
Features
Common seal
What constitutes a common seal?To understand how these seals work, it ‘s nice to know about their formation and parts they are made of. Typically, a common oil seal has an elastomer, also known as an elastic rubber-like a ring.
This is bonded onto a metallic ring that fits perfectly in the housing where the shaft extends. A garter spring is also part of the system, and it is used to press sealing on the elastomer ring.
As long as the oil seal is duly constituted and installed, its lip will be able to ride on the film of the lubricant. However, the film should not get too thick lest a leakage of the fluid will happen.
On the contrary, when the film gets too thin, the lips are likely to get hotter, and this will affect the functioning of the seal. Most sealing rings are made of silicones, leather or synthetic rubber.
Other important roles of the seals
These seals do not only close gaps and spaces on machines. They also help to prevent harmful contamination in vehicles and machines. All the delicate parts of a machine are kept safe from harmful factors such as dirt, contaminants, and debris.
As such, moisture and abrasives do not have access to the primary machine tools and other necessary components. The seals also ensure that liquids such as lubricant and water do not mix.
Different names
A shaft seal may be called by different names such as dirt seals, fluid seals, grease seals or dirt seals. Nonetheless, their role remains the same, and they deliver the same task. Primarily, they close the space between the stationary parts and moving parts of different equipment.
Most modern industries rely on these seals to achieve the best performance and efficiency in their mechanical equipment. From automotive industry to manufacturing and agriculture industry, these seals have an imperative role to play.