Parker PolyPaK Seals
Versatile Sealing for Dynamic Applications
Parker PolyPak® seals are precision-engineered lip seals designed for dynamic hydraulic and pneumatic applications. Combining the sealing performance of a lip seal with the simplicity of an O-ring energized design, PolyPak seals provide reliable sealing under pressure while minimizing leakage and friction.
Originally developed by Parker Hannifin, PolyPak seals are widely used in cylinders, valves, actuators, and other equipment where dependable dynamic sealing is required.
At Performance Seals, we supply Parker PolyPak seals and can help identify the correct profile, material, and size for your application.
What Is a PolyPak Seal?
A PolyPak seal is a U-shaped sealing element that uses system pressure to energize the sealing lips.
Unlike a standard O-ring, which seals by compression alone, a PolyPak’s lip design improves sealing efficiency as system pressure increases.
The result is:
- Improved sealing performance
- Lower friction
- Reduced wear
- Better dynamic sealing capability
- Longer service life in many applications
How PolyPak Seals Work
As pressure increases, fluid or gas enters the cavity of the seal and forces the sealing lips outward against the mating surfaces.
This pressure-assisted design helps maintain an effective seal while reducing unnecessary friction and wear.
Key Advantages
- Pressure energized sealing
- Excellent dynamic sealing performance
- Lower friction than many conventional seals
- Reduced leakage
- Long service life
- Available for hydraulic and pneumatic applications
- Suitable for reciprocating motion
Common PolyPak Materials
PolyPak seals are available in several material options depending on operating conditions.
NBR (Buna-N)
- General-purpose hydraulic applications
- Good oil resistance
- Cost-effective solution
FKM (Viton®)
- Higher temperature capability
- Excellent chemical resistance
- Suitable for aggressive media
HNBR
- Improved wear resistance
- Better heat resistance than standard NBR
- Common in demanding industrial applications
Polyurethane
- Excellent abrasion resistance
- High-pressure capability
- Frequently used in hydraulic systems
Common Applications
PolyPak seals are commonly used in:
- Hydraulic cylinders
- Pneumatic cylinders
- Valves
- Pumps
- Actuators
- Mobile equipment
- Industrial automation systems
- Oil and gas equipment
Benefits of Parker PolyPak Seals
Reliable Dynamic Sealing
Designed for reciprocating applications where leakage control is critical.
Reduced Friction
Lip design helps minimize drag and wear.
Long Service Life
Pressure-energized lips maintain sealing performance over time.
Material Flexibility
Available in multiple compounds to fit a wide range of applications.
Available PolyPak Configurations
- Rod Seals
- Piston Seals
- Hydraulic Seals
- Pneumatic Seals
- Standard Parker Profiles
- Replacement Seals
- Custom Solutions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Parker PolyPak seal?
A pressure-energized lip seal designed for dynamic sealing applications.
How is a PolyPak different from an O-ring?
PolyPak seals use energized sealing lips, while O-rings seal through compression alone.
Are PolyPak seals used in hydraulic cylinders?
Yes. They are commonly used in hydraulic and pneumatic cylinder applications.
What materials are available?
Common options include NBR, FKM, HNBR, and polyurethane.
Can PolyPak seals be used in rotary applications?
PolyPak seals are primarily designed for reciprocating motion. Rotary seals are typically recommended for rotating shafts.