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Z - Radial Seals - Nieuw

Radial Seals

Radial seals, also known as rotor seals, are used in rotating and oscillating movements where a reliable seal between moving components is required. They are used, among other applications, in hydraulic systems where rotation or oscillating movement occurs in addition to pressure.

Depending on the design, a radial seal can consist of a PTFE sealing element in combination with an elastomer energising element. This allows a compact sealing construction to be achieved that is suitable for specific combinations of pressure, movement, temperature and medium.

 
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What is a radial seal?

A radial seal is a dynamic seal in which the sealing action takes place in the radial direction. This type of seal is used, among other applications, where components rotate or oscillate relative to each other.

Radial seals are widely used in hydraulic installations where a conventional seal designed only for linear movement is not suitable. The design can be adapted to factors such as pressure, speed, movement and available installation space.

Rotating and oscillating movements

Radial seals are particularly suitable for applications where a component rotates, pivots or oscillates. Examples include pivot points, selector shafts, rotary connections and other moving components in hydraulic equipment.

How does a radial seal work?

In various designs, a sealing element is pressed against the moving surface by a separate energising element. A common combination is a PTFE sealing element with an elastomer profile ring that provides the required preload.

This preload ensures that the seal remains in contact with the sealing surface even at low or zero system pressure. When system pressure increases, this pressure can contribute to the sealing action.

Compact sealing construction

Due to their specific profile design, certain radial seals can be used where installation space is limited. The exact operation and required groove dimensions depend on the selected sealing profile.

Internally and externally sealing radial seals

Depending on the construction, radial seals can be designed for internal or external sealing. The required design depends on the position of the moving component, the groove and the surface that needs to be sealed.

Internally sealing radial seal

With an internally sealing radial seal, the relevant sealing contact is located on the inside of the seal. This design can be used to seal a moving shaft or similar component.

Externally sealing radial seal

An externally sealing radial seal seals on the outside. The correct construction must be determined based on the movement, pressure direction, groove and dimensions of the application.

Difference between a radial seal and an oil seal

Although both radial seals and oil seals can be used with moving components, they are not automatically interchangeable. Their construction and intended operating conditions differ.

Radial seal

The radial seals on this page are primarily intended for rotating or oscillating movements in applications such as hydraulic systems. Depending on the profile, they may be suitable for higher pressures and relatively limited movement speeds.

Oil seal

An oil seal is another type of rotary shaft seal and is widely used around continuously rotating shafts, for example to retain lubricant inside a bearing or machine construction. Always select the sealing type based on the actual movement and operating conditions.

Materials for radial seals

The material of a radial seal must be selected based on factors such as the medium, temperature, pressure, speed and desired friction. Depending on the sealing profile, different materials or combinations of materials can be used.

PTFE

PTFE is widely used as a sealing element because of its low friction and good chemical resistance. Different fillers can be added to PTFE to adapt its properties to specific operating conditions.

NBR and FKM

Elastomers such as NBR and FKM can be used as energising elements. NBR is suitable for many applications with mineral oils, while FKM may be selected under certain conditions because of its higher temperature and chemical resistance.

Other materials

Depending on the type of radial seal, materials such as PU, PE, fabric-reinforced rubber, POM and metal can also be used. Always check whether the material is suitable for the medium and operating conditions.

Applications of radial seals

Radial seals are used in machines and installations where rotating or oscillating movement is combined with a sealing function. They are particularly common in hydraulic systems.

Hydraulic equipment

In hydraulic equipment, radial seals can be used where a component not only moves linearly but also rotates or oscillates.

Pivot points and hinges

In rotating hinges and pivot points, a radial seal can help separate different pressure chambers or media while still allowing movement.

Selector shafts and manifolds

Radial seals can also be used with selector shafts, manifolds and other rotating hydraulic components. The correct design is determined by movement, pressure, speed, temperature and medium.

Which radial seal do I need?

Several technical parameters must be assessed when selecting the correct radial seal. Start by determining the movement: is it fully rotating, pivoting or oscillating?

Pressure, circumferential speed, temperature, medium and available installation space are also important. These conditions help determine which sealing profile and material are suitable.

Dimensions and groove

Also check the shaft diameter, bore, groove dimensions and sealing direction. It must also be determined whether an internally or externally sealing design is required. With this information, a suitable radial seal can be selected.

Other seals for moving applications

Radial seals are part of a larger group of rotary seals. Which sealing type is suitable depends strongly on the movement and operating conditions.

View the different radial seals and designs for rotating and oscillating applications.

Frequently asked questions about radial seals

What is a radial seal?

A radial seal is a dynamic seal that can be used for rotating or oscillating movements. These seals are used, among other applications, in hydraulic systems.

What is a rotor seal?

Rotor seal is a term used for certain radial seals designed for rotating and oscillating applications.

What is the difference between a radial seal and an oil seal?

The radial seals within this product group are primarily intended for rotating and oscillating movements in applications such as hydraulic systems. An oil seal is another sealing concept that is widely used with continuously rotating shafts.

Which materials are used for radial seals?

Depending on the design, materials such as PTFE, NBR, FKM, PU, PE, fabric-reinforced rubber, POM and metal can be used.

Are radial seals internally or externally sealing?

Both designs are possible. The correct choice depends on the construction, movement, groove, pressure direction and position of the sealing surface.

How do I choose the correct radial seal?

Consider the movement, pressure, speed, temperature, medium, material, dimensions and available installation space. Based on these factors, the correct sealing profile can be selected.

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