Sealed with a test

From managing contamination to enabling the precise movement of heavy loads at construction sites, the seals used in rotary fluid power applications are critical components. "Performance expectations for these high-pressure radial shaft seals are becoming more challenging as hydraulic component manufacturers need solutions that work at high speeds and pressures while meeting global performance standards,” says Inderjeet Singh, Global Product Line Director for Trelleborg's rotary seals.

Investing in Validation
To address these increasingly difficult requirements, Trelleborg is investing in advanced test rigs with broad capabilities. These can simulate a wide range of operating parameters, including temperature, speed, torque, pressure, pressure spikes, variable flow rates, and side loads.

“Extensive testing and validation prove seals meet and exceed customers’ expectations in the field with less maintenance leading to reduced downtime and therefore lower cost of ownership for original equipment manufacturers (OEMs),” says Inderjeet. “This also leads to improved efficiency. In addition, sealing solutions must be compliant with global standards, legislation, and directives, like REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals) and RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances), for instance.”

Simulating Real-World Conditions
Trelleborg utilizes test rigs that can simulate high-pressure variable speed environments and sudden pressure spikes, ensuring component reliability. “Our high-pressure test rig can replicate the working conditions with multiple seals simultaneously,” explains Inderjeet.

This rig can operate at linear speeds of up to 10.6 m/s and pressures of up to 30 bar. It provides real-time monitoring of absorbed torque and independent temperature readings over thousands of hours, giving an accurate picture of in-operation performance.

Additionally, Trelleborg’s pressure spike test rig simulates hydraulic motor conditions at speeds up to 6,000 rpm. Its key feature is a high oil flow rate of 30 liters/minute and the ability to generate pressure spikes within one second.

Enhancing Seal Performance for Maximum Equipment Uptime
“The rig also includes a built-in camera that precisely monitors when oil reaches the seal, ensuring that the timing of the readings is accurate,” adds Inderjeet. This allows for fine-tuning testing cycles and pre-validation before production.

"Improving seal reliability is a direct way to increase equipment uptime, a critical factor in construction, mining, and agriculture," concludes Inderjeet.

Writer: Donna Guinivan
Photos: Adobe and Trelleborg

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