Machinedesign 2500 Smart Seal 0 0

Smart seals: Radial shaft seals

Dec. 1, 2007
Conventional shaft seals are designed to last a certain length of time perhaps 5,000 to 20,000 service hours before the effects of wear begin to emerge.

Conventional shaft seals are designed to last a certain length of time — perhaps 5,000 to 20,000 service hours — before the effects of wear begin to emerge. To avoid the possibility of an unexpected failure and subsequent leakage, however, most companies change out seals at regular intervals, regardless of their condition. A new seal with a built-in sensor that detects oil, plus a wicking element that laps it up in case it escapes, makes premature replacement a thing of the past, extending service life as much as 50%.

Intelligent seals that call for attention when they need to be replaced are especially helpful where extreme loads and duty cycles are involved; for example, on a bearing assembly mounted in a wind turbine or a gearbox buried in the middle of a chemical plant. Here, sensor-equipped seals make remote monitoring and diagnostics relatively easy.

Although letting seals run until failure is counterintuitive to prevailing maintenance philosophy, the new seal is destined to change some minds because it's designed to not only monitor leaks, but manage them as well. Leaking oil is captured in a repository and soaked up by a special non-woven fabric. The integrated sensor detects fabric contamination electronically as well as optically, emitting a warning signal at any saturation level the user desires as set in software. An outer sealing lip keeps the oil within the repository, preventing leakage or egress beyond the seal.

VITAL STATS

On display: Intelligent radial shaft seal

Key features: Integrated sensor detects oil absorbed by wicking element.

What it means to you: Longer service cycles and an end to preventative maintenance.

What else: Operates to 212° F; custom units available for higher temperatures and protection against water penetration.

Innovator: Simrit, a division of Freudenberg and NOK

Plymouth, Mich.

For more info: www.simrit.com or (866) 274-6748

Sponsored Recommendations

MOVI-C Unleashed: Your One-Stop Shop for Automation Tasks

April 17, 2024
Discover the versatility of SEW-EURODRIVE's MOVI-C modular automation system, designed to streamline motion control challenges across diverse applications.

The Power of Automation Made Easy

April 17, 2024
Automation Made Easy is more than a slogan; it signifies a shift towards smarter, more efficient operations where technology takes on the heavy lifting.

Lubricants: Unlocking Peak Performance in your Gearmotor

April 17, 2024
Understanding the role of lubricants, how to select them, and the importance of maintenance can significantly impact your gearmotor's performance and lifespan.

From concept to consumption: Optimizing success in food and beverage

April 9, 2024
Identifying opportunities and solutions for plant floor optimization has never been easier. Download our visual guide to quickly and efficiently pinpoint areas for operational...

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Machine Design, create an account today!