Pneumatic Seals are used in a wide variety of applications across haulage, construction, plant, pharmaceutical, food, and general engineering industries, improving equipment performance. They are designed to keep the gases and fluids under pressure, helping to maintain a controlled and efficient system.
Depending on the application, pneumatic seals come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials. FPM/Fluorocarbon rubber, nitrile, silicone, EPDM, and PTFE are some of the most popular materials used for pneumatic seals. However, overtime pneumatic seals can wear out or become damaged, compromising the pneumatic system's performance. In this blog, we will discuss some signs that indicate pneumatic seals need to be replaced.
One of the most obvious signs pneumatic seals need to be replaced is air leakage, either externally or internally. The most common areas where leaks can occur include joints, couplings, seals, and fittings, as well as hoses and areas that have worn packing. Air is usually audible and you may also notice a drop in system pressure.
Another sign that your pneumatic seal needs replacing is reduced performance. This could be due to seals no longer functioning as they should. Reduced performance could also cause a slower response time or a loss of power from the system such as slow or uneven movement of the pneumatic cylinder or a decrease in the force it exerts.
As a result of being exposed to harsh operating conditions such as high temperatures or chemicals, pneumatic seals are likely to wear and tear and can get damaged over time. Any pneumatic seals showing signs of damage, such as cracks, tears, or deformations, should always be replaced.
Contamination is another reason pneumatic seals fail. If the system is exposed to dirt, dust, or other debris, it can damage the seal and cause it to fail. If you notice any contamination, such as debris on the seal or in the system, it is important to clean it thoroughly and replace the seal.
The temperature range, of pneumatic seals is -4°F to +176°F, anything that is operating out of this range is susceptible to failure when operating in extreme temperatures. This causes the seals to become brittle and crack. It is essential when choosing the appropriate medium that it is suitable to withstand the working temperature range of your pneumatic cylinder.
Pneumatic seals have a limited lifespan, and over time they will eventually need to be replaced. The lifespan of pneumatic seals can vary depending on a few factors, including the operating conditions of the system, the quality of the seals, and the level of maintenance the system receives. It is recommended that pneumatic seals be replaced every 2 to 3 years, or sooner if any of the above signs are present.
At FPE Seals, we offer a wide range of high-quality pneumatic seals and offer advice and guidance to help you find the part you need.
Unable to find what you need on our webstore? Please contact us and we will be happy to help source what you need.