Keys To Finding The Right Seals For Hydraulic Cylinders

In order for a hydraulic cylinder to function normally, it requires seals. Some of them are designed to keep fluid out of certain areas and then others are meant for contamination prevention. If you're planning to buy some for a hydraulic cylinder, follow these rules.

Decide Between Static and Dynamic

There are two primary designs you can get with hydraulic seals: static and dynamic. The former option is intended for areas that don't experience motion, whereas the latter seal option helps support areas that do experience movement and thus possible friction.

All you need to do is identify exactly which area you're trying to support with new hydraulic seals. Then you'll know whether static or dynamic designs are appropriate and thus get the most out of these seals for as long as they hold up around your hydraulic cylinders.

Choose a Material You Feel Comfortable With

After working out the design aspect of a hydraulic seal, next you need to determine what it's going to be made of. Some popular options include rubber, rigid plastic, PTFE, and thermoplastic. Instead of making an impulsive buy, take a look at the benefits of each one of these materials. Then you can compare them with each other.

Ultimately, you need to choose a material that's best for where these seals are being set up and how they'll be used going forward. For instance, if your hydraulic seals are going to be exposed to extreme conditions, PTFE is a solid choice because of the many conditions it's resistant to.

Assess the Pressure Ranges of Your Cylinder

In order to get hydraulic seals that are capable of lasting while performing optimally, then you need to account for the amount of pressure that your hydraulic cylinder is exposed to. Your seals should be designed to support this particular pressure range to avoid breaking down.

You can find the pressure range of your hydraulic cylinder either online or in the manufacturer's manual. After finding it, you can review pressure range support with a particular hydraulic seal variety and ensure it's compatible. 

If you have to get new seals for a hydraulic cylinder, you want to plan out this hydraulic equipment investment carefully so that this cylinder continues working like it's supposed to. Focus on relevant factors like seal material, design, and pressure support so that after this component is set up, you know it's going to do its job well. 

Contact a manufacturer for more information about hydraulic seals.