A sealing system refers to the totality of all components and measures that prevent liquids, gases, lubricants or particles from entering or escaping a specific area. In mechanical engineering and drive technology, the sealing system is particularly important for protecting bearings, screw drives, spindles or housings from contamination, moisture or lubricant loss.
Structure and components
A sealing system can consist of various components:
- Wipers or lip seals keep out dirt and particles
- O-rings or elastomers prevent the leakage of fluids or lubricants
- Shaft seals (radial seals) seal rotating shafts
- Felts or brush seals absorb lubricant and prevent the ingress of dust
- Combinations of several elements – e.g. a double scraper that keeps coarse dirt out and traps fine dust inside
Functions and significance
- Combinations of several elements – e.g. a double scraper that keeps coarse dirt out and traps fine dust inside
- Maintaining lubrication: Prevents lubricant loss and ensures long-term friction reduction
- Ensuring service life: Clean operation and consistent lubrication minimise wear and damage
- Reducing downtime: Well-designed sealing systems prevent breakdowns and minimise maintenance requirements
Typical applications
- Ball and trapezoidal screw drives
- Spindles and axles in machine tools
- Bearings in drives and gearboxes
- Hydraulic and pneumatic cylinders
A sealing system is an integral part of mechanical assemblies which, through the combination of various sealing and wiper elements, prevents contamination, lubricant loss and damage. The careful selection and coordination of the sealing system is crucial to the efficiency, service life and reliability of machinery and drives.