What is a rubber seal called?

Rubber seals are an essential component of many engineered products and systems, serving to prevent leaks and keep out dirt, water, and other contaminants. While rubber seals are ubiquitous, the truth is that many people don't know the proper name for the different types of rubber seals available in the market. In this article, we'll explore what a rubber seal is called, and delve deeper into its various types, applications, and benefits.

What is a rubber seal called?

A rubber seal is simply called a seal, which is any device, component, or material that prevents or restricts the intrusion or escape of fluids, gases, or contaminants across a physical boundary. The term 'seal' is generic and applies to a wide range of materials, designs, and applications. However, when it comes to rubber seals, there are several specific names used to differentiate them according to their shapes, sizes, and functions. Here are five of them:

1. O-ring seals

O-ring seals are the most common type of rubber seals, characterized by their doughnut-shaped cross-section. O-ring seals are made of a variety of rubber materials, including Buna-N, silicone, and Viton. They are used in both static and dynamic sealing applications, such as hydraulic systems, pumps, valves, and industrial machinery. O-ring seals provide excellent resistance to water, oil, and chemical exposure.

2. Gasket seals

Gasket seals are flat, non-circular rubber seals that are commonly used to seal two flat surfaces together in engines, transmissions, and piping systems. Gasket seals are made of materials like cork, rubber, and paper, and come in different thicknesses and sizes. They are designed to compress and deform when tightened, providing a tight seal that prevents leaks.

3. Lip seals

Lip seals, also known as radial shaft seals, are used to prevent the leakage of fluids between rotating shafts and housings. Lip seals have a flexible lip that fits snugly against the shaft and rotates with it, creating a barrier between the two components. Lip seals are typically made of nitrile rubber, but other materials like silicone and Viton are also used for specific applications.

4. Diaphragm seals

Diaphragm seals are bellows-shaped rubber seals that are used to isolate pressure gauges and transmitters from the process medium. Diaphragm seals are typically made of elastomers like neoprene or silicone, and are designed to be flexible enough to maintain a consistent pressure while preventing contamination or corrosion of the sensor elements. Diaphragm seals are commonly used in chemical, food, and pharmaceutical applications.

5. Sealing washers

Sealing washers are flat, circular rubber seals that are placed between two surfaces to prevent leakage. Sealing washers are used in plumbing, automotive, and mechanical applications, and come in different shapes and materials, including rubber, nylon, and fiber. Sealing washers are designed to be compressed between the two surfaces, providing a tight seal that prevents leaks.

Benefits of rubber seals

Rubber seals offer many benefits that make them an essential part of many products and systems. Here are some of them:

- Prevent leaks: Rubber seals provide a barrier against the intrusion or escape of fluids, gases, or contaminants, which helps prevent leaks that can cause damage, safety hazards, and environmental pollution.

- Increase service life: Rubber seals help protect the components and systems they are part of from wear, corrosion, and degradation, which can increase their service life and reduce maintenance costs.

- Improve performance: Rubber seals can enhance the performance of products and systems by reducing friction, vibration, and noise, as well as providing thermal and electrical insulation.

- Customization: Rubber seals can be customized to specific shapes, sizes, and materials to meet the requirements of different applications, from high-pressure hydraulic systems to low-temperature cryogenic systems.

Conclusion

Rubber seals are an essential component of many products and systems, providing a critical function of preventing leaks and contamination. While they're often referred to simply as seals, there are different types of rubber seals with specific names according to their shapes, sizes, and functions, including O-ring seals, gasket seals, lip seals, diaphragm seals, and sealing washers. Understanding the different types of rubber seals and their advantages can help you choose the right one for your application and ensure reliable, long-lasting performance.