Q&A
Yes, absolutely. While we supply a complete range of standard metric and imperial sizes (including ASTM and DIN specifications), Wintek specializes in OEM/ODM custom oil seal manufacturing.
If your machinery operates in extreme temperatures, high pressures, or requires unique chemical resistance, our engineering team can design and mold the perfect sealing solution to meet your exact specifications.
Storage Guidelines
Climate: The optimal storage temperature is between 15°C and 32°C (59°F to 90°F), with an average relative humidity of 40% to 70%.
Inventory Management: We strongly recommend following a First-In, First-Out (FIFO) inventory system. Even under perfect conditions, prolonged storage can eventually alter the material properties.
Hazards to Avoid: Keep seals away from heat sources, direct or reflected sunlight, and electrical equipment. Exposure to heat and ozone accelerates oxidation and causes premature rubber aging. Additionally, excessive moisture can corrode the metal case and internal garter spring.
6 Best Practices to Prevent Seal Damage:
- 1. Keep in Original Packaging: Store seals in their original wrappers or boxes to ensure they remain fully protected from the elements.
- 2. Never Hang Seals: Do not hang seals on pegs, wire, or nails, as this will permanently stretch and deform the sealing lip.
- 3. No Marking: Do not write or make physical marks directly on the rubber or metal case.
- 4. Keep It Clean: Ensure the seal is free from dirt, dust, and sand before installation.
- 5. Do Not Drop: Dropping an oil seal can dislodge the internal spring, dent the metal case, and introduce contaminants.
- 6. Single-Use Only: Never reuse an oil seal. Once a seal has been installed and removed, it must be replaced with a new one.
The following chart shows the recommended shelf life of different materials under proper usage, installation, and storage conditions.
| Type of Material | Shelf Life |
|---|---|
| NBR | 5 - 7 years |
| FKM, Silicone | 10 years |
| HNBR | 7 - 10 years |
| ACM, AEM | 5 - 7 years |
| PU | 5 years |
| Felt, Leather, TEFLON | Indefinite (with proper storage) |
Absolutely! This is the most critical step in installation. Before sliding the seal onto the shaft, you must pre-lubricate the sealing lip with the same oil or high-temperature grease used within the system.
If installed dry (a "dry run"), the extreme friction during the first few seconds of startup will generate high heat, instantly burning the rubber lip and causing immediate leakage.
If the shaft has prominent wear grooves, simply installing a new standard seal will likely still result in leaks, as the lip cannot form a tight fluid film over the uneven surface.
Common solutions include installing a thin metal wear sleeve (Speedi-Sleeve) to create a fresh contact surface, or ordering custom-width oil seals from Wintek to shift the sealing lip's contact point to an unworn section of the shaft.