SEALS & GASKETS FAILURE ANALYSIS OVERVIEW The following presentation will provide you with a basic understanding of the most common causes of seal failure. Please call for assistance regarding specific applications or issues.

Failure Analysis Solution Utilize a lubricant with higher temperature capability. Carbonized Lubricant Problem Carbonized lubricant can result when the lubricant temperature limits have been exceeded. Degraded lubricant will deposit around the main sealing interface, hindering sealing capability.

Failure Analysis Solution Verify whether the required shaft lead is present. If shaft lead is insufficient, correct it, or use a recommended seal design to aid installation. Fractured Element Problem Fractured elements can result from installation damage. The element hinge is rolled over, causing element fracture or splits.

Failure Analysis Solution Determine if the delamination is a result of improper installation; If so, modify installation technique to eliminate future occurrence. Delamination Problem Delamination can develop as a result of air trapped in the element. Material separation will reduce sealing capability.

Failure Analysis Solution Decrease internal pressure, allowing adequate lubrication to the primary sealing lip. Lack of Lubrication Problem Lack of lubrication to the sealing surface can be a result of excessive internal pressure or insufficient lubrication. Surface cracks or irregular wear patterns can develop.

Excessive Wear Pattern Problem An excessive wear pattern can result from internal pressure, high misalignment / runout or an oversized shaft. A wide wear pattern will result in ineffective sealing. Solution Determine maximum operating parameters, and use seal design recommended for the application.

Rolled Sealing Lip Problem: A rolled sealing lip is caused by improper installation or inadequate shaft lead. This could result in element fracture, and immediate leakage. Solution: Verify whether the required shaft lead is present. If shaft lead is insufficient, correct it, or use a recommended seal design to aid installation.

Extended Service Problem Extended service is typically a result of changing product requirements or modified maintenance planning. Increased lip wear will lower sealing capability. Solution Upgrade the seal design and element material for extended service capability.

Spring Delamination Problem Excessive deflection, elevated temperature or improper preparation can separate the spring and sealing element, causing leakage. Solution Upgrade to seal with additional shaft-to-bore capability. If temperature is elevated, use alternate sealing material to meet application requirements.

Fluid Degradation Problem Fluid degradation is a result of incompatibility between lubricant or coolant and the sealing element material. Excessive swelling or element distortion will develop. Solution Verify application coolant and lubricants, then utilize recommended seal design and materials.

Thermal Degradation Problem Thermal degradation typically results from increased temperature at the sealing interface. Breaks or cracks that develop on the primary sealing lip may cause leakage or contamination. Solution Upgrade the sealing element material to satisfy the application temperature requirements.

Fractured Carrier Spring Problem: Fractured carrier springs typically result from improper installation, or undue distortion from excessive weight. Fracture or distortion of the carrier spring results in ineffective sealing. Solution: Improve installation technique, or utilize installation tools to eliminate future occurrence.