Machinery Lubrication magazine published by Noria Corporation
Issue link: http://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/629709
non-spring and spring-loaded seals. A non-spring seal generally will be less expen- sive and be able to retain viscous materials like grease at slow shaft speeds. Typical applications include conveyors, vehicle wheels and greased components. Spring- loaded seals are typically used with oils and can be found on a wide range of equipment. Installation After the seal material and construction have been chosen, the lip seal must be installed correctly for it to perform. There are a number of products on the market dedicated to this single task. Most look like a socket set that will position the seal squarely into its bore. These tools can work well if selected carefully, but most off-the- shelf versions aren't as effective, especially when a shaft is already installed. For these instances, I prefer to use a pipe that is large enough to slip over the shaft and makes good contact with the lip seal's outer shell. If you can find something that catches the outer casing, you can prevent damaging the inner metal ring that attaches to the lip seal material. Just be sure to set the seal in straight and at the correct depth. Failure to properly set the seal perpendicular to the shaft can cause immediate leakage. If you have a used shaft, it likely has developed a wear ring where the old lip seal was placed. You should never set the contact patch to a previous contact point. If this is unavoidable, there are products that you can slip over the shaft to help with the damaged surfaces. This is usually quicker and more cost effective than replacing a shaft. Keep in mind that the lip Lip Seal Installation Checklist The elastomer is not damaged (no nicks, scratches, cuts, etc.) The case is not damaged (no nicks, cuts, dents, etc.) The garter spring is properly placed (if used) Wipe the seal and shaft of any debris The assembly lube is compatible with the lubricant in operation The case is of the proper specification The elastomer is of the proper specification The lip seal is pointing in the correct direction The shaft is free of defects (no nicks, scratches, grooves, etc.) The bore is free of defects (no nicks, debris, roundness, etc.) There is adequate ventilation of equipment when stored or in operation Proper installation tools are used to avoid damaging seals Equal pressure is applied during installation to ensure the seal is not cocked