How to Use Hydraulic Bonded Seals, Metal Bonded Seals, and Self-Centering Bonded Seals Correctly

Hydraulic bonded seals, metal bonded seals, and self-centering bonded seals are essential components for preventing fluid leaks in high-pressure systems such as hydraulic equipment, automotive engines, and industrial machinery. These seals consist of a metal washer bonded to an elastomer ring, providing a durable, leak-proof solution around bolts and fasteners. To maximize their efficiency, it’s important to install and use them correctly.

Hydraulic Bonded Seals: Proper Installation for Leak Prevention

Hydraulic bonded seals are designed to seal bolt holes and fasteners in hydraulic systems, preventing fluid leaks under high pressure. They consist of a metal washer and a flexible elastomer ring that deforms slightly when compressed, forming a tight seal.

Steps for Correct Usage:

Clean the Mating Surfaces:

Before installing the hydraulic bonded seal, ensure that both the bolt and the mating surface are clean and free of debris, dirt, and oil. Any contaminants can prevent the seal from seating properly, leading to leaks.

Position the Seal Properly:

Place the hydraulic bonded seal directly under the bolt or fitting. The elastomer ring should face the mating surface, while the metal washer provides even load distribution when the bolt is tightened.

Tighten the Bolt to the Correct Torque:

Tighten the bolt or fitting to the manufacturer-recommended torque specification. Over-tightening can deform the elastomer ring or crush the metal washer, compromising the seal. Under-tightening can lead to inadequate compression and leaks.

Inspect the Seal After Installation:

Once the bolt is tightened, check for any visible leaks. After the system has operated for some time, inspect the seal again to ensure no fluid is escaping. In hydraulic systems, a periodic check is essential to prevent gradual leaks.

Common Applications:

• Hydraulic Pumps and Cylinders: These seals are used to prevent oil leaks around fasteners in hydraulic equipment.
• High-Pressure Systems: Used in applications where maintaining fluid pressure is critical, such as hydraulic machinery and automotive components.

Metal Bonded Seals: Ensuring Durability in Harsh Conditions

Metal bonded seals combine the strength of a metal washer with the sealing properties of an elastomer, making them ideal for applications requiring durability and resistance to harsh environments, including high temperatures, chemicals, and extreme pressures.

Steps for Correct Usage:

Check the Metal Washer and Elastomer for Damage:

• Before installation, inspect the metal bonded sealfor any visible damage to the metal washer or elastomer. Cracks, deformations, or tears in the elastomer can prevent the seal from forming a proper seal.

Ensure the Correct Orientation:

• Place the seal with the elastomer facing the sealing surface and the metal washer facing outward. The metal washer helps distribute the force evenly when the bolt is tightened, ensuring the elastomer deforms properly to form a seal.

Use Compatible Fasteners and Materials:

• Ensure that the materials used in the system (such as the bolt and surface) are compatible with the metal bonded seal For example, stainless steel washers should be used in corrosive environments.

Re-Torque If Necessary:

• In high-pressure or high-temperature environments, it's important to periodically check the torque on the fasteners, as thermal expansion and contraction can cause the bolts to loosen over time.

Common Applications:

• Heavy Machinery: Metal bonded seals are used in construction and agricultural equipment where heavy loads and extreme conditions are common.
• Automotive: These seals are ideal for sealing critical components in engines and transmissions, where temperature fluctuations and vibration are common.

Self-Centering Bonded Seals: Quick and Accurate Installation

Self-centering bonded seals are a variation of bonded seals that are designed to automatically center themselves around the bolt or fastener, ensuring a perfect seal without the need for manual alignment. This makes them particularly useful in applications where precision is key or where installation needs to be quick and efficient.

Steps for Correct Usage:

Prepare the Installation Area:

• As with other bonded seals, ensure the mating surfaces are clean and free from debris. The self-centering bonded sealwill automatically align itself, but a clean surface is critical for achieving a proper seal.

Position the Seal Over the Bolt:

• Place the self-centering bonded sealover the bolt. Its design allows it to automatically center itself around the bolt or fitting, eliminating the need for manual adjustment. This ensures an even distribution of pressure around the seal.

Tighten to Specified Torque:

• Tighten the fastener according to the manufacturer’s recommended torque settings. The elastomer will compress evenly as the seal centers itself, forming a reliable seal.

Periodic Maintenance Checks:

• While self-centering bonded sealsare designed for easy installation, regular inspections are important, especially in high-pressure or high-vibration environments, to ensure that the seal remains intact.

Common Applications:

• Hydraulic and Pneumatic Systems: Used in systems where fast and accurate installation is important to maintain system pressure and avoid leaks.
• Precision Equipment: Ideal for applications where even a slight misalignment could result in leaks or system inefficiencies.

Best Practices for Using Bonded Seals

• Ensure Compatibility: Make sure the material of the bonded seal (metal and elastomer) is compatible with the fluids, temperatures, and pressures in your application.
• Replace When Necessary: Bonded seals should be replaced after disassembly or if they show any signs of wear, such as cracks, tears, or deformations in the elastomer.
• Use the Correct Size: Always select the correct seal dimensions (inner diameter, outer diameter, and thickness) for your fasteners to ensure a tight and effective seal.
• Follow Manufacturer Guidelines: Always follow the torque specifications provided by the manufacturer to avoid over- or under-tightening the seal.

Proper Installation for Reliable Sealing

Correctly using hydraulic bonded seals, metal bonded seals, and self-centering bonded seals is essential for maintaining leak-proof connections in high-pressure systems. By following the proper installation steps—such as ensuring clean surfaces, selecting the correct seal dimensions, and tightening bolts to the recommended torque—you can maximize the efficiency and longevity of these seals in various applications.

Contact us today for more information on the best bonded seals for your system and how to install them for optimal performance!