When considering high-temperature plastics, it’s important to choose the best quality material for your projects. High-temperature plastics, also referred to as heat-resistant plastic, offer a variety of benefits. They are lightweight and versatile alternatives to metal, ceramics, and older polymers. These features have made heat-resistant plastics highly popular. Below you will find examples of high temp plastics to help you determine which is right for your projects.
Examples of High Temp Plastics
There is a wide variety of heat-resistant plastics, but not all of them are created equally. Below you will find the most popular high-temperature plastics that have a proven record of success.
Ryton: Also referred to as polyphenylene sulfide, Ryton is an organic heat-resistant polymer. It can be molded, extruded, and machined to high tolerances and has a maximum service temperature of 218 degrees Celsius. Ryton won’t dissolve in any solvent at temperatures of 200 degrees Celsius or below. It also has a good flammability rating even without flame-retardant additives. Ryton is used to replace metals, thermosets, lower-performing plastics in motors and controls, specialty seals, pumps, fans, blowers, and certain HVAC components.
Vespel: Vespel is highly heat resistant. In fact, the material is a non-melting polyimide that can withstand repeated heating up to 300 degrees Celsius. The plastics thermal and mechanical properties are not altered at these high temperatures. With filler material, Vespel can withstand even higher heat. Depending on the type and amount of filler, the material can withstand up to 398 degrees Celsius for up to 350 hours. At this level of heat, Vespel only loses fifty percent of its initial tensile strength (due to oxidative degradation). The amount of strength lost can be mitigated if the parts are in inert environments, such as nitrogen. Because of the major benefits, Vespel is often a go-to choice for projects involving industrial machinery, automobiles, and jet engines.
Torlon: This type of plastic is a polyamide-imide that provides room temperature properties of other types of plastic at a whopping 204 degrees Celsius. It also has outstanding long-term stiffness and strength up to 260 degrees Celsius. The high-temperature plastic is resistant to wear, creep, strong acids, and most organic chemicals. Torlon is a highly effective alternative to metal in certain applications, specifically high-temperature friction and wear applications. It has excellent bearing properties when combined with thermoplastic materials. This type of high-temperature plastic is a great option for severe service environments, including aircraft hardware and fasteners, structural and mechanical components, power train components and transmissions, coatings, composites, and additives.
Noryl: This plastic is a blend of two polymers, polyphenylene oxide and polystyrene. The combination helps Noryl stay stable in boiling water as polystyrene increases the glass transition temperature above 100 degrees Celsius. The high-temperature plastic has a maximum service temperature of 105 degrees Celsius and a melting point of 154 degrees Celsius. Noryl can be used in a variety of applications, including solar panels and electrical insulating material as it has extremely low water absorption.
Choosing Your High Temp Plastics
If you are unsure about which high-temperature plastics are right for your projects, contact the experts at Real Seal. It can be difficult to determine the right materials for your project so getting help can streamline your project goals. They are skilled in seal products and mechanical component goods, including thermoset materials. They specialize in performance-oriented rubber and plastic materials. Their state-of-the-art technology has made them an industry leader as they have a fully equipped laboratory and chemist. Contact the experts at Real Seal today for support with your next project!
Gaskets and seals are used to prevent leaks. Despite the similarity in their purpose, they are both uniquely different. If you are scratching your head wondering which one is right for your project, you are not alone. Below you will find helpful information to guide you on which to choose. So, gaskets vs O-rings: what’s the difference?
Gaskets vs O-Rings: What’s the Difference?
Despite having a similar purpose when it comes to leak prevention, gaskets and O-rings are uniquely different. Gaskets are flat pieces of material used to seal two, separate flat surfaces. They are used in static applications to seal joints, flanges, and other surfaces to prevent leakage. They are usually sealed with a bolted joint and are most often shaped like circles. But can exist in a number of different shapes depending on the unique needs of the project. Also, they come in a variety of different materials, including supple materials, rigid polymers, and metals.
However, they can end up layered with different material coatings depending on the application. Gasket seals are used in a vast array of applications, including electric motors, power generators, and transformers; the food and beverage industry; various electronics; medical devices; handheld communication devices, like cell phones; the automotive industry; and the aerospace and defense industries. They remain produced using a broad range of manufacturing techniques, including:
Rubber extrusion
Waterjet cutting
Hot vulcanized and cold bond splicing
Custom die cutting
Compression
Injection
Transfer molding; and precision slitting
O-Rings Key Factors
On the other hand, O-rings are round pieces that set in a groove which creates a seal between two separate parts. O-rings are consistently the same shape but can vary in thickness due to the unique specifications and needs of the project. The seal comes in a variety of different materials. The most common include Neoprene, EPDM Rubber and Fluorocarbon (Viton), PTFE, and Nitrile (Buna). O-rings find use in various applications, including:
Hydraulic seals
The pulp and paper industry
Pipe joints
The pharmaceutical and medical fields
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning
Equipment with fluid seal points
Food processing
Oil seals
And fuel systems
The seals’ production involves using various manufacturing techniques. These include extrusion, compression molding, injection molding, transfer molding, or machining.
Choosing Between Gaskets and O-Rings
If you need to determine whether a gasket or O-ring is right for your project, consider the environment, function of the seal, and features such as the shape, temperature, and pressure. For example, when it comes to shape, a non-circular joint that requires a good seal would likely need a gasket. An O-ring would be very difficult to use as they are round. Gaskets can be easily customized into any shape which allows them to be more useful in a wider variety of applications.
When it comes to considering temperature, the temperature of the operating equipment is necessary as it will determine the best material to use for both the gasket and O-ring. Gaskets are the best choice as it can withstand extremely high temperatures. As for pressure, O-rings generally perform better than gaskets. Taking a comprehensive look at your project’s needs is necessary to determine which is right for your project.
Specialty Seals
Specialty seals may be necessary for your project. A specialty seal is necessary when a modification to an existing seal is necessary to fit your particular application. This can help improve the outcome of your project, simplify the assembly process, improve tolerances, and reduce installation times. If you need specialty seals for your project, it is important to work with a skilled manufacturer. Contact Real Seal today for all of your specialty seals as they are industry leaders with a proven record of success.
Product designers need to consider the materials used for their product or their component parts. This can make a major difference when it comes to your final product. Two of the common manufacturing processes are cast and injection molding. You may wonder, cast vs injection molding: what’s the difference? Below you will find helpful information to guide you as you consider which type of molding is right for your product or component part.
Cast vs Injection Molding
Both cast and injection molding have unique differences that play an important role in the manufacturing process. Both need to be considered when making design decisions for your product or component part. The cast molding process uses the force of gravity to inject the material into your mold. However, the injection molding process is different as it uses high pressure while your material is in a liquid state during the process. In order to determine which type of molding is right for you, consider the following differences between cast and injection molding.
Costs Related to Manufacturing and Tooling: Tooling can be more expensive with injection molding due to the high pressure and temperature associated with the process. Tooling in injection molding can include closed metal molds that require complex systems. The complex systems are necessary to regulate the temperature and material flow. In addition, the molds require costly machining and finishing steps. On the other hand, cast molding uses simpler mold tooling, which results in lower costs. Cast molding can include open molds, close molds, compression molds, and many other designs. This allows you more flexibility when designing your mold.
Compatibility with Your Materials: Both cast and injection molding are optimized based on the materials you will be using. Because injection molding uses high pressure with your materials in a liquid state, the materials you use need to have low viscosity. The low viscosity materials allow the material to take shape due to the unique nature of the injection method. Some of the common materials include polypropylene, polyethylene, ABS, and TPU. Cast molding most often uses thermoset materials as they are irreversibly shaped when the material cures. Thermoset materials have a much wider range of durometers, better resistance to abrasion, and enhanced chemical resistance as compared to other materials. Based on this, it is clear that the type of materials you use will indicate the type of molding that will be optimal for your product or component part.
Prototypes: The type of molding you use also relies on how quickly you want a prototype. Getting your prototype quickly, cost-effectively, and efficiently is likely a necessary factor for your business. The faster you get the product on the market, the faster you can increase profits and recuperate product development costs. Injection molding, as discussed, is more complex. This can result in higher costs and more time in terms of production. However, cast molding offers more flexibility and can generally be made faster. Another factor when it comes to your prototypes is how confident you are in your vision. You may need to make a number of molds to achieve your desired result. Consider your timeline and budget before you make a final decision about the type of mold.
Real Seal Specialty Seals
When determining which method is right for your product or component part, be sure to consider the relative differences between cast and injection molding. They are each beneficial, but have their respective advantages and disadvantages that are necessary to consider. If you are on the fence about which method is right for your product, contact the team at Real Seal. They are skilled in Real Seal specialty seals and can ensure you choose the right method for your product.
While rubber is a common product found in a number of items, it has a unique history. Originally something derived from natural ingredients, there are now synthetic rubbers that are more commonly used in the products you come across modernly. Below you will find information about the history of rubber and how it has evolved.
The History of Natural Rubber
There are number of tall tales about the origins of rubber and who discovered it. From stories about Christopher Columbus discovering rubber on a trip to Haiti to a French astronomer who made his way back from Peru, there are number of people who take credit for discovering the dynamic substance. However, rubber trees (also known as “Hevea brasiliensis”) are found in South America, Southeast Asia, and Africa. Indigenous cultures have cultivated the sap from the rubber trees for many years.
Rubber is made from the sap of a rubber tree. The sap is strategically removed from the tree through a process called tapping. Small cuts are made in the bark of the tree and the sap is then drained out. Certain ingredients are added to ensure the sap doesn’t solidify. The water is removed from the rubber through an extraction process and is then dried out. Historically, the process and amount of rubber derived from rubber trees met the needs of the indigenous people. However, as industrialization demands impacted other parts of the world, the need for synthetic rubber was high.
The History of Synthetic Rubber in the United States
Charles Goodyear was the original inventor of vulcanized rubber. The name is most notably associated with tires. However, Goodyear was not the founder of the tire company, and it was actually founded years after his death. However, the name of the company was in honor of Charles Goodyear and his notable discovery of vulcanized rubber.
The story begins with Goodyear’s newfound obsession with rubber after he bought a rubber life-preserver in the 1830s. He was determined to find how rubber could be useful and was even granted a government contract to make rubber mail bags. This was a complete flop as the bags didn’t hold up in varying temperatures. In fact, rubber would become sticky in warm temperatures and stiff in cold temperatures. These were the same issues that others had with the material as clothing and shoes had been made with rubber since the 1820s. However, the rubber was not operating effectively and ultimately caused trouble in the textile industry as well. Goodyear found that vulcanization created strong links that allowed rubber to remain strong, yet flexible. The vulcanization process involves heating the rubber and mixing it with sulfur to create this strong bond. From there on, rubber has been used in countless products and is an integral component of goods in our everyday life.
Historically Significant Dates Relating to Rubber
Since the 1830s, the rubber industry has rapidly evolved due to the demand for the product. There have been a number of rubber related products that have been invented since Goodyear’s original discovery. Below are some of the most historically significant dates relating to rubber.
1844: Goodyear was granted a United States patent for his discovery. However, he didn’t make any money off of it before his death in 1860.
1931: Dupont produced Duprene (now referred to as “Neoprene”). This is used in a variety of products, including gaskets, wire and cable insulation, and adhesives.
1934: Germans crated an oil-resistant rubber called Buna-N. This type of rubber is most commonly used in the automotive and aeronautical industries.
1960s: Shell created Shell Isoprene rubber and Goodyear produced Natsyn rubber.
Real Seal Specialty Seals
Due to the evolution of rubber, there are number of types that can be used to meet your unique needs. If you need engineered rubber components, the team at Real Seal are the leading experts in the field. Real seal specialty seals are made from the best materials using the most advanced technology. Contact their team today for help with project!
If you find yourself in a predicament wondering whether you should use a gasket or seal, it’s important to know their respective differences. While you may think they are interchangeable, they each have unique properties that make them advantageous depending on the situation.
Gasket vs Seal: What’s the Difference?
So, gasket vs seal: what’s the difference? Below you will find helpful information to help guide you when you need to decide between using a gasket or a seal.
An Introduction to Gaskets
While it is very true that there are similarities between gaskets and seals, there are also some unique differences. So, what is a gasket? A gasket is a seal connection between two different parts that have flat surfaces. A seal, on the other hand, is used between rotating parts, such as an engine, pump, or shaft. Therefore, gasket seals are used in scenarios where a static seal is necessary. They are most frequently used when a connection requires preventing leaks.
Gaskets are commonly used in industries such as oil and gas, electric generation, pulp and paper, and transportation. They are made from a variety of materials, including Viton, Neoprene, Nitrile, Pure Gum Rubber, and SBR. These are just a few of the different materials used for gaskets so be sure the type you choose meets your needs. When it comes to replacing gaskets, it should be done any time the equipment is taken apart and reassembled. This means you’ll need an entirely new gasket as this can ensure their effectiveness, in addition to maintaining safety.
An Introduction to Seals
Seals are used in machines, engines, pumps, or shafts that rotate. Unlike gaskets, seals are a little more dynamic in terms of their function. Seals are often a molded or machined product that is cut into dynamic shapes to perfectly fit into the component parts. Seals are also slightly more complex than gaskets as they have an outer ring and an inner surface. The outer ring is metal and is right over the inner surface made of rubber. The inner circle is slightly tilted and creates a lip for the seal as they fit perfectly within one another. The inner circle is designed to serve as a second barrier against any liquid that can get past the outer ring. It serves as a safeguard and requires proper installation. If it is not placed in the outer ring correctly it can cause major issues.
Seals are commonly used in hydraulic lines and ball bearings. They not only keep out leaks, but can also reduce the amount of noise that occurs during operations using ball bearings. They are fairly easy to install as they are fitted into the hole by a press. Then, they are tapped further in using a hammer. To keep the crankshaft from damaging as the seal moves through it, lubrication is necessary. In terms of replacement, the entire bearing must be replaced when a seal breaks down. Avoid a rookie mistake and replace the entire bearing. Just replacing the seal can result in major damage and potential safety issues.
Specialty Seals
In many ways, gaskets and seals are similar. However, their unique differences make it important to understand which one is right for your needs. The most notable difference is that a gasket is meant to seal a static connection, while a seal is meant to seal a connection between two different rotating parts. If you need help determining which is right for your project, contact the experts at Real Seal. They are skilled in specialty seals, and manufacture and distribute seal products and mechanic component goods. Check out their website today for more information!
Rubber products are everywhere, and you likely come into contact with countless rubber products in your daily life. Because rubber is such a common material, it’s important to know how long rubber products last. Below you will find the shelf life of rubber products so you don’t risk using expired goods.
Shelf Life of Rubber Products
One of the major factors in how long your rubber lasts is the condition in which they are stored. In the best of conditions, rubber can last well beyond its expiration date. However, poor conditions can cause major issues. In fact, rubber stored in optimal conditions can be used beyond its expiration date.
There are a variety of factors that contribute to the long shelf life of rubber. Rubber should be stored in a cool, dry place as water and warmth can negatively impact the rubber. The area should also be free from light, moisture, oxygen, and any chemicals or chemical-related products. These can disrupt the integrity of rubber and cause issues with its effectiveness. The best temperature for rubber is below 25 degrees Celsius, but preferably at 15 degrees Celsius.
It’s important to note that the shelf life of a product is not the sole indicator as to whether the rubber product is still good. In fact, it can be somewhat risky to wait to use rubber products until the last possible time indicated by the expiration date. Do you have a variety of rubber products? It is best to use them as soon as possible in order to ensure their maximum effectiveness. Even in the best of conditions, rubber can undergo changes and their physical properties can be damaged to a point of being unusable. If the rubber product has expired, it’s best to avoid using it due to the possible negative impacts caused by expired rubber.
Shelf Life of Common Rubber Products
Below are some of the common rubbers used in a variety of products. They are listed by their trade name or common name and their respective recommended shelf life.
Silicone: This is commonly used in sealants, adhesives, lubricants, medicine, and even cooking utensils. The shelf life of silicone is 20 years.
Viton (“Fluorel”): Commonly used in seals for aircraft engines, automotive fuel handling systems, and vacuum seals, the shelf life of Viton is 20 years.
Neoprene: This is commonly used in water sportswear, automotive gaskets, and athletic equipment. The shelf life of neoprene is 5 to 10 years.
EPDM: EPDM, also referred to as ethylene propylene diene monomer, is used in window and door seals as well as cooling system hoses. The shelf life of EPDM is 5 to 10 years.
Butyl: Commonly used in O-rings, caulks, sealants, fiberoptic compounds, and agricultural chemicals, Butyl can last up to 5 to 10 years.
Nitrile (“NBR”): This is commonly used in fuel hoses, gaskets, rollers, and other products that require oil resistance. The shelf life of Nitrile is 5 to 10 years.
SBR: SBR, also referred to as styrene-butadiene rubber, is used in the manufacturing of automobile tires. The shelf life of SBR is 3 to 5 years.
Natural Rubber: Commonly used in medical devices, surgical gloves, car tires, pacifiers, clothes, and toys, the shelf life of natural rubber is 3 to 5 years.
Specialty Seals
One of the best ways to determine the shelf life of your unique rubber or rubber product is to talk with a skilled rubber manufacturer. This is especially true if you are determining the shelf life of specialty seals as they are integral to the overall function of major machinery. Contact the team at Real Seal today for any of your rubber or sealant needs.
While rubber is a highly versatile and common material, it is not indestructible. In fact, it’s helpful to know what types of materials negatively impact rubber. Rubber components are an integral part of the overall function of certain goods and machinery. So, what chemicals eat through rubber? Below you will find what impacts rubber so you can avoid any future issues.
What Chemicals Eat Through Rubber?
Because rubber is used in a number of products and industrial applications, understanding the impact certain substances have on rubber is important. Below are some of the common substances that can negatively impact rubber and rubber-related materials.
Acid: Rubber and acid do not go well together. Acids are made up of chemical compounds with a pH of less than 7. The pH of a substance is important as it is the measure of the amount of hydrogen ions found in the solution. Hydrogen ions can degrade and negatively impact the material they come into contact with. There are a variety of acids, including acetic, hydrochloric, hydrofluoric, sulfuric, and benzoic. Acetic acid is an organic acid that is especially harmful to Viton ad Buna-N rubber seals. Organic acids are made up of carbon, and mineral acids are made up of mineral elements. Hydrochloric, hydrofluoric, and sulfuric acid also attack and negatively impact Buna-N rubber. Lastly, benzoic acid negatively impacts EPDM rubber seals.
Alkali: The combination of alkalis and rubber is harmful to rubber. This is because alkalis have a pH greater than 7 (the opposite of acids). Alkalis have a large number of hydroxide ions present in the solution. There are a variety of alkalis, including Magnesium and sodium hydroxide. Magnesium hydroxide is an alkali that harms Buna-N rubber. Sodium hydroxide is also harmful to Buna-N rubbers (at any temperature), but especially high temperatures.
Petroleum-Based Materials: Hydraulic oils and greases that are petroleum-based contain hydrocarbon components. These long chains of chemicals have a negative impact on EPDM rubber seals. In fact, they can dissolve the rubber material entirely. While you can use Buna-N rubber with these types of petroleum-based chemicals, it is not always recommended. Brake fluid (also referred to as “glycol ethers”) is an excellent example of when not to use Buna-N rubber. Ether chemicals are harmful to Viton seals. Certain fuels are not recommended for Viton. In fact, gasoline affects EPDM rubber.
Ammonia: Anhydrous ammonia has a high pH and is harmful to Viton seals.
Types of Seals
Viton: This is a fluoropolymer elastomer and synthetic rubber compound. It is a fluorinated hydrocarbon rubber product designed to withstand challenging environments. However, it cannot withstand acid, certain fuels, and ammonia.
Buna-N: Buna-N is also referred to as “NBR.” NBR is short for “acrylonitrile butadiene rubber” and it is a unique elastomer. This is an NBR rubber that is resistant to all petroleum-based oils and fuels, water, certain alcohols, silicone greases, and hydraulic fluids. It is important to note it cannot withstand acids, certain alkalis, and brake fluid.
EPDM: EDPM is also known as “ethylene propylene diene terpolymer.” This is an extremely durable synthetic rubber used for low-slope rooftops. It is made up of ethylene and propylene, which are derived from natural gas an oil. However, it cannot withstand acid, certain petroleum-based materials, and gasoline.
Real Seal Specialty Seals
If you need specialty seals or are concerned that your seals can be impacted by certain materials, contact the team at Real Seal. The team at Real Seal manufactures and distributes seal products and mechanical component goods. Check out their website for your Real Seal specialty seals needs.
Rubber is a versatile material that is used in a variety of different products. Medical devices, piping seals, car tires, pacifiers, and even surgical gloves are all composed of rubber. There are a variety of types of rubber, including vulcanized rubber. You may wonder, what is vulcanized rubber?
What Is Vulcanized Rubber?
Below you will find more information about vulcanized rubber and why it’s so important.
The Vulcanization Process
The vulcanization process is a chemical process where rubber is heated with sulfur at between 140 and 160 degrees Celsius. The process involves the formation of cross-links between rubber molecules. It improves the elasticity of rubber, in addition to its resilience, strength, hardness, and weather resistance.
The process was discovered by Charles Goodyear in 1839. Charles Goodyear was an inventor in the United States. He invented the vulcanization process, which made the commercial use of rubber possible. Charles Goodyear became interested in creating a method of treating India rubber. India rubber is the name for natural rubber that comes from the sap of certain trees. India rubber is naturally adhesive, as most sap is, so it sticks to everything. However, Charles Goodyear attempted to treat India rubber so it not only lost its adhesiveness, but also become susceptible to extreme temperatures.
After some failed attempts at other inventions with rubber, including rubber mail bags made for the United States Post Office, Goodyear bought another inventor’s process related to rubber. The other inventor had discovered that rubber treated with sulfur made it lose its adhesive properties. After he purchased this invention, Goodyear dropped the mixture of rubber and sulfur on a hot stove by accident and ultimately discovered the process of vulcanization. The rest is history as it is an integral staple in people’s everyday lives.
The Significance of Vulcanized Rubber
Vulcanized rubber is much stronger than other types of rubber, including traditional rubber. Traditional rubber is not as strong and cannot withstand the same amount of pressure. The significance of vulcanized rubber is massive as it has completely transformed the manufacturing industry, in addition to the products made from vulcanized rubber. This is especially true when it comes to vulcanized seals as they have a variety of benefits.
Seals are an integral component in the manufacturing industry. This includes both the manufacturing process and the products manufactured. Manufacturing involves the passage of various oils and liquids through machines. Seals protect against leaks in order to maintain the integrity of the manufacturing process. Vulcanized seals are a type of gasket made of vulcanized rubber. A gasket is a mechanical seal that fills the space between two or more surfaces to prevent leaks. They essentially fill in irregularities or gaps between two surfaces. Vulcanized seals offer a variety of benefits as compared to other options.
Durability and Strength: Vulcanized seals are much stronger and durable as compared to alternatives. In fact, research has shown that they can be up to ten times stronger than traditional rubber seals.
Oxidation Resistant: Vulcanized rubber is much more resistant to corrosion, rust, and other damage from oxidation. This not only prevent leaks. But also means that your gaskets will prove long-lasting if they ended up made from vulcanized rubber.
Solvent Resistant: Vulcanized seals are also resistant to solvents. Solvents can degrade regular seals and cause leaks and other damage.
Real Seal Specialty Seals Manufacturer
If you need vulcanized seals or any other type of specialty seals, contact the team at Real Seal. Real Seal specialty seals manufacturer has a wide variety of products that can ensure your seal needs are met. Check out their website today for more information!
Despite the fact that seals are a part of our everyday life, many people don’t notice their value. No matter if you are a beginner or an expert, finding the right seal for your project can be confusing. There are two main types of sealants you’ll need to choose from: mechanical seals or packing seals. This will all depend on your unique project. Below you will find a pump sealing basic guide so you can decide which one is right for you.
Pump Sealing Basic Guide
Packing Seals
Packing seals are the most common and widely used sealing solution. They use rope-like materials that wrap around the shaft of a pump. This fills the dead space and reduces fluid loss. In most cases, packing seals are the top choice for rotating equipment applications. It has a wide variety of benefits and can help make your job a lot easier in the short- and long term. Consider the following benefits of packing seals the next time you need to determine your seal options.
Cost-Effective: Unlike mechanical seals, packing seals are most cost-effective. They have lower up-front costs and it is cheaper in the long run if they are properly taken care of.
Smooth Installation: The ease of installation and the total turnaround time for packing seals is fast and efficient. This not only saves you time, but also money. The installation of packing seals does not require the decoupling of the drive shaft. This is a major advantage as compared to certain mechanical seals.
Low Maintenance: Packing seals are less complex in regard to maintaining the equipment and the related inventory.
Durable: Unlike mechanical seals, packing seals can withstand radial movement and misalignment much more effectively. For machinery that is frequently moved axially, packing seals are the best option. Packing seals are just much more forgiving compared to other sealants.
Versatile: Packing seals can effectively operate on machinery that is in average to good condition. This is unlike mechanical seals as they require the machinery to be in good condition and operate reliably.
Mechanical Seals
While there are major benefits to packing seals, mechanical seals are also an effective seal option. A mechanical seal is just like a packing seal in the sense that it is used to provide a seal at the entry and exit points of a rotating shaft. The seal itself often has flat faces that allow the shaft to turn while maintaining the seal. It is very difficult for leakage to occur with mechanical seals if they are installed properly. Consider the following benefits the next time you need to figure out which seal is right for your project.
Safety: If you have a substance that absolutely cannot leak due to safety or environmental issues, it’s important to go with a mechanical seal. One of the major benefits of mechanical seals is their effectiveness in terms of safety.
Low Repair Costs: Mechanical seals are more expensive as compared to alternatives. However, their repair costs are low as they do not require a lot of maintenance. As long as they arrive installed effectively they can prove a great long-term investment. There is less wear and tear due to their effectiveness which reduces the need for replacement.
Specialized Equipment: For unique and specialized equipment, mechanical seals are preferred. They are designed to withstand much more in terms of durability as compared to other options.
Real Seal Specialty Seals
If you are unsure what type of sealant you need, contact the experts at Real Seal Specialty Seals. They manufacture and distribute seal products and mechanical component goods. Their team of experts can help you find which seal is right for you. Check out their website today for more information!
Rubber is a dynamic material used in a variety of products. In fact, it’s highly likely that you use rubber products on a daily basis. From your shoes and clothing to windshield wipers and tires, rubber is a major component of a variety of everyday products. You may wonder, how is rubber manufactured? Below you will find some interesting information on the origins of rubber and why it is such a valuable resource that impacts our everyday lives.
How Rubber Is Manufactured: Natural vs Synthetic Rubber
It’s no surprise that rubber is used for so many products as it is a highly versatile material. The use of rubber dates back to over one thousand years ago. While rubber was originally manufactured from natural resources, the high demand for the resource has resulted in the creation of synthetic rubber. Modernly, most rubber is made from synthetic materials.
Natural Rubber
Traditionally, natural rubber is derived from liquid sap from certain types of trees. The liquid sap is referred to as “latex” and is derived from the stems of the tree. There are thousands of trees that produce the latex sap, but the most abundant tree is the “rubber tree.” The rubber tree is native to areas in South America and Southeast Asia, but can also be found in areas on the continent of Africa.
The sap is taken from the trees through a process called “tapping.” Tapping involves the collection of the sap from the rubber trees by making cuts in the bark and collecting the cups of sap that come from the tree. Once the rubber tree is tapped, ammonia is added to the sap so it doesn’t solidify. Then acid is mixed with the sap and ammonia to extract the rubber. The process involves the use of rollers to remove the excess water from the mixture, which results in layers of rubber. The rubber is then dried out in a smokehouse over a period of a few days. Once the drying process is complete, the rubber can be used for processing rubber-related products.
Synthetic Rubber
The process for extracting natural rubber can take days, which historically did not meet the demands for rubber globally. The high demand for rubber incentivized scientists and experts to create a synthetic alternative. Rubber was in high demand during World War I, which is when the first synthetic rubber was created. The rubber could not compete with natural rubber. However, due to technological and manufacturing advancements, synthetic rubber is now just as good in terms of quality and durability as natural rubber.
The Process of Preparing Rubber
While natural and synthetic rubber are highly similar in terms of quality, they both require processing in order to turn into a product. The process can differ depending on what the final product of the rubber is. However, the steps are somewhat similar. Chemicals are added to rubber to ensure that it remains stable. Rubber can naturally become brittle in cold temperatures and sticky in warm temperatures without a stabilizer. The rubber is then molded and shaped into either rollers or hollowed tubes.
The last step involves a heating process known as vulcanization. This process involves the rubber being cooked, oftentimes with sulfur, to create strong links between the molecules. This helps with the longevity and durability of the rubber as it can now be shaped into the final product.
Real Seal Specialty Seals
Rubber is a commonly used in sealing and mechanical applications. If you need top-quality rubber seals for your home or office, contact Real Seal. They manufacture and distribute specialty seals and have their own in-house chemist that can help develop sealants specific to your unique needs. Contact the team Real Seal specialty seals for any of your sealant needs.
