Seals are an important component widely used in the engineering field, and their function is to seal and protect various mechanical equipment and devices. There are various types of seals, and according to different application scenarios and requirements, different materials and structural designs can be used to meet specific sealing needs. In this article, we will provide a detailed introduction to the definition, classification, function, and common application fields of seals.

1. Definition

Seals refer to a type of component used to fill or block gaps between equipment and components, prevent fluid or gas leakage, and prevent external impurities from entering. Seals are usually installed between two relatively moving components or at the interface of equipment to ensure that they can maintain good sealing performance under adverse conditions such as pressure, temperature, and vibration.

2. Classification

According to the shape and structure of seals, they can be divided into the following categories:

Flat seal: Flat seal is the simplest form of sealing, usually made of soft materials such as rubber, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), etc. They are suitable for sealing between flat surfaces, such as sealing gaskets, O-rings, etc.

Rotary seals: Rotary seals are mainly used for sealing between rotating shafts and fixed components, such as rotary shaft lip seals, V-shaped seals, etc.

Reciprocating seals: Reciprocating seals are suitable for reciprocating components, such as piston sealing rings, piston rod sealing rings, etc.

Other special seals: According to specific application requirements, there are also some special structural seals, such as Y-shaped sealing rings, U-shaped sealing rings, etc.

3. Function

The main functions of seals are:

Leakage prevention: Seals can prevent fluid or gas from leaking out of gaps in equipment or components, ensuring normal equipment operation and preventing environmental pollution.

Prevention of pollution: Seals can also prevent external impurities, dust, moisture, etc. from entering the interior of the equipment, maintaining its cleanliness and efficiency.

Reducing friction and wear: In mechanical equipment, seals can reduce friction and wear, extending the service life of the equipment.

Under pressure and temperature: Seals need to withstand different pressure and temperature conditions, so it is necessary to choose appropriate materials and structural design.

4. Application field

Seals are widely used in various fields, including but not limited to the following aspects:

Construction machinery: such as excavators, bulldozers, loaders, etc. Seals are used in hydraulic systems and engines.

Automotive industry: Automotive engines, transmissions, braking systems, etc., with seals ensuring the normal operation of vehicles.

Industrial equipment: Sealing parts of various industrial equipment, such as pumps, valves, pressure vessels, etc.

Aerospace: High demand sealing applications such as aviation engines and spacecraft.

Household appliances: Hydraulic systems, sealing devices, etc. in household appliances.

When selecting and using seals, it is necessary to make reasonable combinations based on specific working conditions and environmental requirements to ensure good sealing performance and reliability, and to ensure the normal operation of equipment and systems. At the same time, regular inspection and replacement of seals are also important measures to maintain the equipment in good working condition.