Overview

Seals are widely used in automotive wheel bearings to prevent lubrication leakage around shafts or other moving parts. This is very important because any Lubrication fluid leak loss will decrease the pressure or the level of the fluid and result in poor operation lead to increased friction and wear on bearing rolling surface and eventual bearing failure.

Types

On most automotive applications, the oil seals are radial lip seals that either have one or two lips. This type of seal has a metal case that holds the flexible sealing lip against a rotating shaft. This is the kind of seal that is located where the wheels are, more specifically, with the hub or bearing assemblies. Some seals have a “garter spring” that helps to hold the lip contact with the sealing surface. Examples of this type of seal are located on the engine, camshaft and crankshaft. Other seals include O-rings and packing seals.

Like any kind of a seal you find, if it there is a problem it will normally be a leak. The leaks can be due to cracks, tears or damage to the lip or housing due to time, temperature or undo stress by heavy loads. Also, if the seal has run dry of lubrication the heat will be overwhelming and destroy the seal and imperfections of the shaft it sits on can also contribute to the deterioration.

Purpose

A seal closes or seals the space between stationary and moving parts and may act as a separator that prevents two different substances or chemicals from mixing together. Seals provide the protection against contamination from dirt, water or chemicals that can severely damage any internal component. Seals are usually made of a chemically treated metal and rubber components.

Technology

Mevotech seals are manufactured to endure all the requirements necessary in a high quality seal. Heat and cold resistance, lip strength and durability and the ability to keep contaminants out and retain critical lubrication inside are the key components to any automotive seal. Mevotech seals are designed to eliminate premature failure and maintain constant performance.