What Are the Seal Types for Bearings?
Source: China Bearing Network | Time: 2013-04-02
Bearings are essential components in many mechanical systems, and their performance is heavily influenced by the environment they operate in. To ensure smooth operation, protect against contamination, and extend service life, bearings must be properly sealed. Seals prevent the loss of lubricants and block the entry of dust, moisture, and other harmful particles. There are two main types of bearing seals: **self-contained seals** and **external seals**. Self-contained seals are built into the bearing itself, such as with a dust cover or a sealing ring. These seals are convenient but may take up more space inside the bearing housing. On the other hand, external seals are added separately and can be tailored to specific applications. Seal selection depends on several factors, including: 1. The type of lubricant used (grease or oil) 2. Operating conditions (temperature, speed, and environment) 3. Shaft alignment and tolerance 4. The rotational speed of the sealing surface 5. Cost considerations Seals can also be classified into **non-contact** and **contact** types. Here’s a closer look at each: ### 1. Non-Contact Seals Non-contact seals do not physically touch the moving parts, maintaining a small gap between the seal and the component. This design minimizes friction and heat generation, making them ideal for high-speed and high-temperature applications. Common types include **labyrinth seals** and **oil-throwing rings**, which are often used in applications where minimal wear is critical. These seals are generally preferred when space is limited, as they require less room and offer long-lasting performance without significant maintenance. ### 2. Contact Seals Contact seals, as the name suggests, make direct contact with the rotating or sliding parts. They provide a tighter seal but generate more friction and heat, leading to faster wear over time. These seals are typically used in medium to low-speed environments. Examples of contact seals include **felt seals** and **cup seals**, which are effective in preventing leakage and keeping contaminants out. However, due to their higher friction, they may not be suitable for high-speed operations. In many engineering applications, multiple sealing methods are combined to achieve optimal performance. For example, a bearing might use both a contact seal and a labyrinth seal to enhance protection against dirt and lubricant loss. Whether you're working with industrial machinery, automotive systems, or precision equipment, understanding the different types of bearing seals is crucial for ensuring reliability and longevity.
**Related Bearing Knowledge:** - Energy-saving heat treatment techniques in the bearing industry - Advantages of imported tumbling bearings - Ways to remove oil pollution from INA bearings - Key points for NSK bearing applications and preparation This article was originally published on China Bearing Network. Link: [http://www.chinabearing.net](http://www.chinabearing.net) Previous: The method of timing protection for NSK bearings Next: Continuous casting bearing
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