Contact Seals for Rolling Bearings
Rolling bearings provide reliable, efficient operation for rotating equipment in a wide range of industries. However, the sealing of rolling bearing is essential to protect them against the ingress of dust, moisture, and other contamination. This is typically achieved through the use of contact seals, which are designed to contact the metal surface of the bearing on one side and the outer race of the bearing on the other side.
Contact seals are commonly employed in various types of rolling bearings, such as radial ball bearings and single-row spherical bearings. They consist of a flexible O-ring made of elastomeric material, such as silicone or chloroprene, and a rigid support ring. This support ring can be made from metal, such as aluminum or steel, or plastic, depending on the application.
The contact seal is typically secured to the bearing housing or directly to the inner race of the bearing. To ensure proper performance, it is important that the contact seal is properly fitted to ensure the components are aligned and compressed properly. The seal should also be properly lubricated and relieved of any dirt or debris that could cause wear or reduce performance.
Contact seals are often used to form a waterproof barrier between bearings, shafts, and housings, thus protecting the bearings from water or other media. The contact seals are also used to create an airtight seal in applications requiring a stringent seal to protect delicate components from dust or contamination.
In addition to their sealing applications, contact seals also provide lubrication. The lubricants that are impregnated into the seal help to reduce friction and improve the service life of the seals themselves. The lubricant also reduces the wear on the contact surfaces of the bearing, thus reducing the frequency of maintenance and repair.
Contact seals are widely used in automotive, industrial and aerospace applications, thanks to their reliability and superior performance. They are available in a range of sizes and materials, making them suitable for any application. With their long service life and low cost, contact seals are an ideal choice for sealing of rolling bearings, providing protection against the ingress of dust, moisture, and other contaminants.