SEALS & GASKETS

1
SEALS GASKETS

• FAILURE ANALYSIS OVERVIEW

The following presentation will provide you with
a basic understanding of the most common causes
of seal failure. Please call for assistance
regarding specific applications or issues.
2
Failure Analysis
Carbonized Lubricant

• Problem
• Carbonized lubricant can result when the
  lubricant temperature limits have been exceeded.
  
• Degraded lubricant will deposit around the main
  sealing interface, hindering sealing capability.

• Solution
• Utilize a lubricant with higher temperature
  capability.

3
Failure Analysis
Fractured Element

• Problem
• Fractured elements can result from installation
  damage.
• The element hinge is rolled over, causing element
  fracture or splits.

• Solution
• Verify whether the required shaft lead is
  present.
• If shaft lead is insufficient, correct it, or use
  a recommended seal design to aid installation.

4
Failure Analysis
Delamination

• Problem
• Delamination can develop as a result of air
  trapped in the element.
• Material separation will reduce sealing
  capability.

• Solution
• Determine if the delamination is a result of
  improper installation
• If so, modify installation technique to eliminate
  future occurrence.

5
Failure Analysis
Lack of Lubrication

• Problem
• Lack of lubrication to the sealing surface can be
  a result of excessive internal pressure or
  insufficient lubrication.
• Surface cracks or irregular wear patterns can
  develop.

• Solution
• Decrease internal pressure, allowing adequate
  lubrication to the primary sealing lip.

6
Excessive Wear Pattern

• Problem
• An excessive wear pattern can result from
  internal pressure, high misalignment / runout or
  an oversized shaft. A wide wear pattern will
  result in ineffective sealing.
• Solution
• Determine maximum operating parameters, and use
  seal design recommended for the application.

7
Rolled Sealing Lip

• Problem
• A rolled sealing lip is caused by improper
  installation or inadequate shaft lead. This could
  result in element fracture, and immediate
  leakage.
• Solution
• Verify whether the required shaft lead is
  present. If shaft lead is insufficient, correct
  it, or use a recommended seal design to aid
  installation.

8
Extended Service

• Problem
• Extended service is typically a result of
  changing product requirements or modified
  maintenance planning. Increased lip wear will
  lower sealing capability.
• Solution
• Upgrade the seal design and element material for
  extended service capability.

9
Spring Delamination

• Problem
• Excessive deflection, elevated temperature or
  improper preparation can separate the spring and
  sealing element, causing leakage.
• Solution
• Upgrade to seal with additional shaft-to-bore
  capability. If temperature is elevated, use
  alternate sealing material to meet application
  requirements.

10
Fluid Degradation

• Problem
• Fluid degradation is a result of incompatibility
  between lubricant or coolant and the sealing
  element material. Excessive swelling or element
  distortion will develop.
• Solution
• Verify application coolant and lubricants, then
  utilize recommended seal design and materials.

11
Thermal Degradation

• Problem
• Thermal degradation typically results from
  increased temperature at the sealing interface.
  Breaks or cracks that develop on the primary
  sealing lip may cause leakage or contamination.
• Solution
• Upgrade the sealing element material to satisfy
  the application temperature requirements.

12
Fractured Carrier Spring

• Problem
• Fractured carrier springs typically result from
  improper installation, or undue distortion from
  excessive weight. Fracture or distortion of the
  carrier spring results in ineffective sealing.
• Solution
• Improve installation technique, or utilize
  installation tools to eliminate future
  occurrence.