Guide for Selecting Sealing Materials for Bearing Hinges’ Sealing Performance

Introduction

When it comes to bearing hinges, sealing materials play a crucial role in ensuring their optimal performance. The right sealing material can prevent dust, dirt, and moisture from entering the hinge, which can cause premature wear and tear. However, selecting the right sealing material can be a daunting task, given the wide range of materials available in the market. This guide aims to simplify the process by providing you with a comprehensive list of factors to consider when selecting sealing materials for bearing hinges.

Factors to Consider

Here are some factors to consider when selecting sealing materials:

1. Temperature range: The sealing material should be able to withstand the temperature range of the application environment. If the temperature exceeds the limit of the material, it can cause the material to degrade and lose its sealing properties.
2. Chemical resistance: If the hinge is exposed to chemicals, the sealing material should be resistant to them. Otherwise, the chemicals can cause the material to break down and lose its sealing properties.
3. Compression set: The sealing material should be able to recover its original shape after being compressed. If the material does not have good compression set, it can cause leaks in the hinge.
4. Abrasion resistance: If the hinge is exposed to abrasive materials, the sealing material should be able to withstand the wear and tear caused by them. Otherwise, the material can wear out quickly and lose its sealing properties.
5. UV resistance: If the hinge is exposed to sunlight, the sealing material should be able to withstand UV radiation. Otherwise, the material can degrade and lose its sealing properties.
6. Cost: The cost of the sealing material should be within your budget. However, do not compromise on the quality of the material for the sake of cost.

Types of Sealing Materials

Here are some common types of sealing materials:

1. Nitrile rubber: This material is resistant to oil, fuel, and water. It has good compression set and abrasion resistance. However, it is not recommended for applications that involve exposure to sunlight and ozone.
2. Fluorocarbon rubber: This material is resistant to chemicals, oil, and high temperatures. It has good compression set and UV resistance. However, it is expensive and not recommended for applications that involve exposure to low temperatures.
3. Silicone rubber: This material is resistant to high and low temperatures, UV radiation, and chemicals. It has good compression set and is suitable for applications that involve exposure to sunlight. However, it is not recommended for applications that involve exposure to oils and fuels.
4. Polyurethane: This material is resistant to abrasion, chemicals, and high temperatures. It has good compression set and is suitable for applications that involve exposure to oils and fuels. However, it is not recommended for applications that involve exposure to sunlight and ozone.