What are the hydraulic seals called?

What are the hydraulic seals called?

Hydraulic seals are an essential component of any hydraulic system. They prevent fluid from leaking out of the system and causing damage to the machinery. The name 'hydraulic seals' refers to a wide range of seals that are used in hydraulic cylinders, pumps, valves, motors, and other hydraulic components.

In this article, we'll take a closer look at the different types of hydraulic seals and explore their applications.

Types of Hydraulic Seals

There are several different types of hydraulic seals, each designed for a specific application. The most common types of hydraulic seals include:

1. Piston Seals

Piston seals are used in hydraulic cylinders to prevent fluid from leaking past the piston. They are designed to withstand high pressures and temperature fluctuations.

Piston seals come in several different designs, including single-acting, double-acting, and tandem seals. Single-acting seals are used in cylinders that move in one direction only, while double-acting seals are used in systems where the cylinder can move in both directions. Tandem seals are used in heavy-duty applications where two pistons are used in one cylinder.

2. Rod Seals

Rod seals are used to prevent fluid from leaking out of the hydraulic cylinder around the piston rod. They are typically made from rubber or polyurethane and can be single- or double-lipped.

Rod seals are critical to the performance of hydraulic cylinders. If they fail, the cylinder will begin to leak fluid, which can cause damage to the machinery.

3. Wiper Seals

Wiper seals are used to prevent dirt and debris from entering the hydraulic cylinder. They are typically made from nitrile or polyurethane and are designed to scrape dirt and debris off the piston rod as it moves in and out of the cylinder.

In addition to their primary function, wiper seals also help to protect the rod seal from damage.

4. Wear Rings

Wear rings are used to guide the piston in the hydraulic cylinder and prevent metal-to-metal contact between the piston and cylinder wall.

They are typically made from materials such as bronze or plastic and are designed to absorb radial loads.

5. O-Rings

O-rings are used in a wide range of hydraulic applications to prevent fluid from leaking out of the system. They are typically made from rubber or silicone and are designed to create a secure, tight seal.

O-rings are available in a wide range of sizes and can be used in both static and dynamic applications.

Applications of Hydraulic Seals

Hydraulic seals are used in a wide range of applications, including:

1. Aerospace

Hydraulic seals are used in aircraft systems, including landing gear and hydraulic actuation systems.

2. Agriculture

Hydraulic systems are used in agriculture to power various machinery, including tractors, plows, and harvesters.

3. Automotive

Hydraulic systems are used in automotive applications, including power steering, brake systems, and suspension systems.

4. Construction

Hydraulic systems are used in construction equipment, including excavators, loaders, and bulldozers.

5. Manufacturing

Hydraulic systems are used in manufacturing applications, including injection molding machines and metal-forming equipment.

Conclusion

Hydraulic seals are an essential component of any hydraulic system. They are designed to prevent fluid from leaking out of the system and causing damage to the machinery.

There are several different types of hydraulic seals, each designed for a specific application. The most common types of hydraulic seals include piston seals, rod seals, wiper seals, wear rings, and O-rings.

Hydraulic seals are used in a wide range of applications, including aerospace, agriculture, automotive, construction, and manufacturing.