Sealing elements are used in hydraulic applications. The type of sealing element used will determine the functionality and service life of the application. The material of the sealing element is also chosen accordingly. The sealing element to be used is decided depending on the type of hydraulic piston seal and requirements of the application. They are used in conjunction with several types of pistons. For example, they are used in critical applications that are exposed to harsh conditions.
Characteristics of Ideal Sealing Elements
For a sealing element to be actively used in applications and to serve as the ideal sealing solution, it should be:
- Resistant to leaks
- Wear resistant
- Resistant to extreme temperatures
- Resistant to gap extrusion
- Compact in design
- Installed in a quick and simplified manner
- Exhibiting low friction properties
Sealing elements are chosen according to the above factors among several others. The manufacturer has to consider the operation time of each seal when fabricating the product. The sealing elements should be chosen accordingly to ensure maximum efficiency during all process cycles.
Factors to Consider When Using Sealing Elements
The following factors should be taken into consideration when deciding on the type of sealing element used in the application:
- The environment of the application (Factors that should be considered are the environmental issues of the region as well as the application.)
- Maximum operating temperature
- Operating Speeds
- Gap Value
- Application load and Pressure
They are usually used in conjunction with water, oils, and various types of chemicals. Hence, they are constructed in a way that they don’t wear out in constant presence of some liquid.
Sealing elements are used in hydraulic cylinders and pistons used in construction, aerospace, and automotive industries. They can be used in standard as well as specialized applications.
The sealing elements should be constructed in a ways that they ensure maximum sealing efficiency. Depending on the application, sometimes the sealing elements are designed to reduce vibrations in an application. In other application, they can be expected to avoid severe part misalignment.
