Choosing suitable seal material is crucial, as it determines the overall quality and durability of hydraulic seals. Your manufacturer can suggest appropriate materials - whether you need hydraulic seal rings, o-rings, or any other type of seal - to meet specific application needs. Below are the most common materials used to create seals:
* ‍Rubber: A hydraulic rubber seal is suitable for applications requiring high flexibility and compressibility. Nitrile butadiene rubber (NBR), fluoroelastomer (FKM), and hydrogenated nitrile butadiene rubber (HNBR) are popular materials used to create these seals due to their resistance to grease, mineral oils, and other hydraulic fluids.‍
* Polytetrafluoroethylene: PTFE has remarkable durability when exposed to extreme temperatures, pressures, and caustic chemicals.
Its low coefficient of friction means it requires less lubrication than other seals, and it can perform effectively even when used dry.‍
* Rigid plastics: Plastic hydraulic cylinder seals offer resistance to temperature, pressure, and chemical reactivity and come in various materials. The strength of seals can be improved by utilizing engineered plastics instead of commodity plastics.Plastic seals are much more rigid than rubber or PTFE seals, providing additional power to the cylinder.‍
* Thermoplastic Elastomers: TPEs offer excellent strength and flexibility, making them ideal for hydraulic cylinder seals. They are highly resistant to abrasion and tearing and can keep constant pressure for extended periods. Their combination of plastic and rubber properties makes them an excellent choice for components that require durability and elasticity.
With a wide variety of hydraulic seals available, it is essential to select wisely to ensure cost-effective hydraulic cylinder repairs. Doing so will help to guarantee a long operating life and improved performance over the lifetime of the hydraulic cylinder. Incorrectly sealing equipment can lead to premature wear and eventual failure.

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