Rotary Seals
RETAIN LUBRICANTS. EXCLUDE CONTAMINANTS. SUPPORT RELIABLE ROTATING EQUIPMENT.
Performance Seals supplies rotary sealing solutions used in equipment with rotating shafts. These seals help retain lubricants, reduce leakage, and protect critical components from dirt, dust, moisture, and other contaminants that can impact equipment performance.
Rotary seals are commonly used in pumps, motors, gearboxes, compressors, agricultural equipment, and industrial machinery. Whether you’re replacing an existing seal or evaluating options for a new application, our team can help identify solutions based on operating conditions, media compatibility, shaft speed, temperature, and environmental exposure.
What Are Rotary Seals?
Rotary seals are dynamic sealing elements designed to create a sealing interface between a rotating shaft and a stationary housing or bore.
Unlike static seals, which remain fixed between two mating surfaces, rotary seals must maintain effective sealing while accommodating continuous rotational movement. Their primary function is to help retain lubricants and process media while helping prevent contaminants from entering the system.
Rotary seals are commonly referred to as oil seals, rotary shaft seals, or radial shaft seals, depending on the application and industry terminology.
Key Takeaways
- Designed for rotating shaft applications
- Help retain lubricants and reduce leakage
- Help protect equipment from dirt, dust, moisture, and contaminants
- Available in a variety of materials and lip configurations
- Used across a wide range of industrial and mobile equipment
Materials
Material selection plays a significant role in rotary seal performance. Factors such as temperature, shaft speed, media compatibility, and environmental exposure should all be considered during the selection process.
Nitrile (NBR)
A versatile material commonly used in oil and grease sealing applications with good overall performance and value.
Fluorocarbon (FKM)
Offers enhanced resistance to heat, chemicals, and aggressive operating environments.
PTFE
Provides excellent chemical resistance, low friction, and high-temperature capability. Frequently used in demanding rotary applications.
HNBR
Provides improved heat resistance and mechanical properties compared to standard nitrile compounds.
Silicone (VMQ)
Often selected for applications requiring flexibility across a broad temperature range.
Material availability varies depending on seal design and application requirements.
Common Applications
Rotary seals are commonly found in:
- Pumps
- Gearboxes
- Electric Motors
- Compressors
- Industrial Mixers
- Conveyors
- Agricultural Equipment
- Construction Equipment
- Mobile Hydraulic Systems
- Power Transmission Equipment
CONSIDERATIONS WHEN SELECTING A ROTARY SEAL
Several factors can influence rotary seal performance and service life:
- Shaft diameter
- Bore dimensions
- Shaft surface finish
- Shaft speed
- Operating pressure
- Temperature range
- Lubricant or media compatibility
- Environmental contamination exposure
- Shaft runout and misalignment
Providing these details early in the selection process can help identify the most appropriate sealing solution.
Why Performance Seals
At Performance Seals, we understand that rotary sealing applications involve more than simply matching dimensions. Operating conditions, shaft characteristics, media compatibility, and environmental factors all influence long-term performance.
Customers rely on us for responsive support, practical product guidance, and help identifying solutions for both standard and demanding applications. Whether you’re replacing an existing seal or evaluating options for a new design, our team can help you move forward with confidence.