Seals (All)

Rotary Shaft Oil Seals

The function of the oil seal is to stop whatever fluid is inside from leaking out the clearance between the shaft and housing. The seal may also be used to prevent outside materials, such as dirt, from moving in through the clearance. Oil seals – often called grease, fluid or dirt seals – close spaces between stationary and moving components in mechanical equipment, helping prevent lubricant escape. They also stop harmful contaminants from entering machinery, particularly in severe environments. Vital components of practically every type of machine and vehicle in operation, oil seals protect all types of precision-constructed, close-fitting ball, sleeve and roller bearings.In precision bearings, oil seals help prevent lubricants from escaping the bearings or a specific area. In machine components, oil seals help prevent abrasives, corrosive moisture and other harmful contaminants from entering machinery. They also help stop intermixture of two different mediums, such as lubricating oil and water.

What are Oil Seals and how does it work? The basic principle of sealing is straightforward – the flexible lip is held against the rotating part (usually the shaft) whilst the casing (or O.D.) is pressed into the housing or bore and holds the seal in place. The sealing lip needs some form of lubrication to avoid overheating and is usually energized by means of a garter spring.