2) Rubber material

Benefits of Oil Seals

Before fitting the oil seal, it is essential to check that the oil seal, shaft and bore are clean and undamaged. The surfaces the oil seal will come into contact with must be free of sharp points or burrs. The sealing lip is fragile, so even minimal damage can cause a leak. It is also important that the shaft and bore are correctly finished.

Significance of Quality Seals in Automotive Applications:

The metal case serves as the oil seal’s exterior or frame, providing rigidity and strength to the seal. The case material selection depends on the environment in which the seal will operate. Often, the same rubber material used in the seal element covers the case to help seal the exterior of the oil seal in the housing bore.

O-Rings

NBR is recommended for the majority of standard applications and is the most commonly used rubber (elastomer) material. This is because of Nitrile's compatibility with most environments as well as its relatively low cost. Generally nitrile is used for disposable non-latex gloves, footwear, automotive transmission belts, synthetic leather, hoses, o-rings, gaskets, oil seals, and more. 

In the UK, customers have a range of options for purchasing oil seals. There are several reputable UK gasket manufacturers that offer a wide selection of oil seals to meet various industrial needs.

EPDM oil seals are less common. They are used in solvent, hot water and steam applications, EPDM resists low temperatures down to -50 °C and UV radiation well. Some types of EPDM are also suitable for higher temperatures up to +150 °C. EPDM oil seals are usually available upon request.

Before Installation

A standard oil seal consists of an outer circular metal disk with an inner flexible rubber which is affixed to the metal during vulcanization. The bonded seal has no loose parts to allow leakage of oil or ingress of any contaminants. This kind of seal is more accurate, and can easily be fitted into a smaller space. An example is shown in Figure 2.9.