Seals & Gaskets: Failure Analysis Overview
Seals & Gaskets: Failure Analysis Overview
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.
Failure Analysis
Delamination
Problem
• Delamination can develop as a result of air trapped in the
element.
• Material separation will reduce sealing capability.
Solution
• Determine if the delamination is a result of improper installation;
• If so, modify installation technique to eliminate future
occurrence.
Failure Analysis
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 Solution
irregular wear
patterns can • Decrease internal
develop. pressure, allowing
adequate lubrication to the
primary sealing lip.
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.