Glossary

Shaft seals are sealing elements designed to prevent the leakage of lubricants or the entry of dirt and foreign particles into rotating machine parts. Depending on the materials used, shaft seals can also protect against extreme temperatures and aggressive chemicals.

• Question: What are the key features of shaft seals?
  • Answer: They typically consist of a flexible elastomer lip ring that is securely embedded in a metal housing. The lip of the ring seals against the rotating shaft. Some shaft seals have a built-in spring that applies pressure to the sealing lip to ensure more effective sealing.

• Question: What types of shaft seals are there?
  • Answer: There are radial shaft seals, which usually consist of a sealing lip and an outer metal reinforcement ring. Additionally, there are axial shaft seals, such as VA-ring seals, which are mounted on the shaft. The sealing lip in this case seals against the mating surface, typically a part of the housing.
  • Example article: Assortment of VA and shaft seals

• Question: What should be considered during the installation/removal of shaft seals?
  • Answer: To begin with, if an old seal is present, it should be carefully removed without damaging the housing or shaft. Subsequently, the surfaces of the shaft and housing should be thoroughly cleaned to ensure that the new shaft seal fits properly. Finally, the new shaft seal is slid onto the shaft and evenly positioned using a specialized installation tool or suitable equipment.