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 Solution • Utilize a lubricant with higher temperature capability. • 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.

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

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.