Oil seals are the first component against leaks and contaminants, so their integrity is critical to the optimal performance of any rotating machinery system. But what happens when we encounter oil seal failure? What are the causes of oil seal failure and how can we avoid it?
As you know, in Epidor SRT we are experts in sealing solutions, so we tell you in detail why oil seals fail and how a good oil seal maintenance can avoid such errors.
Index
Why do oil seals fail in rotating machinery?
Well-applied oil seals of proven quality are usually highly reliable parts that can be used in a wide range of applications, a priori, can have a long service life. However, as components exposed to natural wear and tear over time, their durability can be altered by a number of factors, from adverse operating conditions to assembly errors.
From Epidor SRT we want to explain the failures detected in oil seals applications and how we can distinguish these errors in two different situations: short term oil seal failures and long term oil seal failures. This distinction will allow us to approach the challenges from different perspectives and develop effective strategies to prevent and/or mitigate them.
Types of oil seal failures
Short-term seal failures can be detected quickly after the oil seals are installed, and can have a high impact on the operation of rotating machinery.
On the other hand, if we are using these components without problems and suddenly we see that the oil seals fail, there may be several reasons: prolonged misuse over time, wear due to friction, an error in choosing the best oil seal, etc.
Having understood the types of oil seal failures, let's delve into each category of failure to better understand the underlying causes and the preventive measures that can be taken.
Short-term seal failures: what triggers them?
As we tell you from Epidor SRT, short-term failures are those that we detect after the oil seals have been installed (they usually appear after a short period of time of operation of the machinery). These failures can have a variety of causes, but some of the most common include:
Failure of seals due to assembly
In 35% of the cases, one of the main reasons for short-term failures is incorrect assembly of the seal: either because it is not properly fitted, because the part has been damaged during installation, or because of improper assembly during installation.
Failure of shaft seals due to shaft finish
A poor shaft finish can be the cause, in 30% cases, of premature wear of the oil seal. Irregularities in the shaft surface can damage the oil seal, causing it to become leaky.
Failure of working conditions in oil seals
High temperatures, extreme pressures or excessive vibrations can adversely affect oil seals in 10% of cases. This failure is quickly remedied by relying on expert manufacturers of oil seals, The company is able to select the right type of seal for the specific application.
Failure of seals due to working environment
Dusty workplaces, corrosive chemicals, unfavorable working environments, etc., are the cause of oil seal failure in 10% of cases.
Seal failures due to lubrication problems
Insufficient lubrication is the reason for oil seal failure in 10% of cases. Poor lubrication of a seal can cause excessive friction between the seal and the shaft, which can accelerate premature wear or even lead to seal failure.
Seal failures due to improper seal or seal defect
In some cases (5%), seal failure may be due to incorrect seal type selection or manufacturing defects in the seal itself.
Long-term seal failures: factors to consider
Long-term failures in oil seals, on the other hand, may not be immediately obvious and may arise after prolonged use of rotating machinery. Failures can have very different causes, usually due to poor maintenance. Let's see the main causes of oil seals failures:
Lubrication problems
Lack of proper lubrication over time is the main cause of oil seal failure (occurs in 40% of cases). This poor maintenance can lead to gradual wear of the oil seal, even after seemingly trouble-free operation.
Working conditions
Factors such as changes in workload, intensive operating cycles or exposure to extreme conditions can contribute to progressive degradation of oil seals over time (we found this common error in 25% of seal failure cases).
Work environments
Over time, exposure to certain chemicals or even the effects of the working environment, such as exposure to the elements, can cause damage to oil seals (this happens in 20% of cases).
Inadequate seal or seal defect
In 10% of cases the reason for oil seal failure is due to a poor choice of oil seal type or a defect in the oil seal. Thus, as the machinery is in use for an extended period of time, the oil seal eventually fails.
Shaft finishes
Although less common (5%) compared to other causes, poor shaft finishes can still contribute to long-term oil seal failures.
Looking for an expert in oil seals? Consult with the Epidor Seals and Rubber Technology Technical Department and we will solve all your doubts.