SEALS & GASKETS

FAILURE ANALYSIS OVERVIEW

The following presentation will provide you with a basic understanding

of the most common causes of seal failure. Please call for assistance
regarding specific applications or issues.
 Failure Analysis
Carbonized Lubricant
Problem
Carbonized lubricant
can result when the
lubricant temperature
limits have been
exceeded.
Degraded lubricant will
deposit around the main
sealing interface, Solution
hindering sealing
capability.
Utilize a lubricant with
higher temperature
capability.
 Failure Analysis
Fractured Element
Problem
Fractured elements can result from installation damage.
The element hinge is rolled over, causing element fracture or
splits.

Solution
Verify whether the required shaft lead is present.
If shaft lead is insufficient, correct it, or use a
recommended seal design to aid installation.
 Failure Analysis
Delamination
Problem
Delamination can develop as a result of air trapped in the
element.
Material separation will reduce sealing capability.

Solution
Determine if the delamination is a result of improper installation;
If so, modify installation technique to eliminate future
occurrence.
 Failure Analysis
Lack of Lubrication
Problem
Lack of lubrication to
the sealing surface
can be a result of
excessive internal
pressure or
insufficient
lubrication.
Surface cracks or Solution
irregular wear
patterns can Decrease internal
develop. pressure, allowing
adequate lubrication to the
primary sealing lip.
Excessive Wear Pattern
Problem
An excessive wear pattern
can result from internal
pressure, high
misalignment / runout or
an oversized shaft. A wide
wear pattern will result in
ineffective sealing.
Solution
Determine maximum
operating parameters, and
use seal design
recommended for the
application.
Rolled Sealing Lip
Problem:
A rolled sealing lip is
caused by improper
installation or inadequate
shaft lead. This could
result in element fracture,
and immediate leakage.
Solution:
Verify whether the required
shaft lead is present. If
shaft lead is insufficient,
correct it, or use a
recommended seal design
to aid installation.
Extended Service
Problem
Extended service is
typically a result of
changing product
requirements or modified
maintenance planning.
Increased lip wear will
lower sealing capability.
Solution
Upgrade the seal design
and element material for
extended service
capability.
 Spring Delamination
Problem
Excessive deflection,
elevated temperature or
improper preparation can
separate the spring and
sealing element, causing
leakage.

Solution
Upgrade to seal with
additional shaft-to-bore
capability. If temperature is
elevated, use alternate
sealing material to meet
application requirements.
Fluid Degradation
Problem
Fluid degradation is a result
of incompatibility between
lubricant or coolant and the
sealing element material.
Excessive swelling or
element distortion will
develop.
Solution
Verify application coolant
and lubricants, then utilize
recommended seal design
and materials.
Thermal Degradation
Problem
Thermal degradation
typically results from
increased temperature at
the sealing interface.
Breaks or cracks that
develop on the primary
sealing lip may cause
leakage or contamination.
Solution
Upgrade the sealing
element material to satisfy
the application
temperature
requirements.
Fractured Carrier Spring
Problem:
Fractured carrier springs
typically result from
improper installation, or
undue distortion from
excessive weight. Fracture
or distortion of the carrier
spring results in
ineffective sealing.
Solution:
Improve installation
technique, or utilize
installation tools to
eliminate future
occurrence.