ROTARY SEALS

Rotary seals, also known as rotary shaft seals or lip seals, are used to seal rotating shafts in various machinery and equipment. They play a crucial role in preventing the leakage of fluids and keeping contaminants out of the system. Here’s an overview:

Purpose

• Prevent Leakage: Rotary seals effectively contain lubricants (like oil or grease) within the machinery while preventing the ingress of dust, dirt, and other contaminants.
• Reduce Friction: They minimize friction between the rotating shaft and the stationary housing, which can improve efficiency and extend the life of the components.

Design

• Components: Typically consist of a sealing lip, a metal or elastomeric body, and sometimes a spring to maintain contact pressure against the shaft.
• Lip Configuration: The lip makes contact with the shaft to create a seal. This can be a single or double lip design, depending on the application requirements.

Types

1. Single Lip Seals: Commonly used in applications where only one side of the seal needs protection.
2. Double Lip Seals: Provide extra protection by having two sealing lips, ideal for environments with more contaminants or when dual sealing is necessary.
3. Spring-Loaded Seals: These include a spring that keeps the lip in contact with the shaft, compensating for wear or shaft misalignment.
4. PTFE Seals: Made from polytetrafluoroethylene, these seals are known for their low friction and high chemical resistance, often used in demanding environments.