Due to the versatility, durability, and ease of use of thermoplastics, they have become a cornerstone in modern manufacturing and design. It is no wonder that builders use thermoplastics in a wide range of applications, from specialty seals for automotive products to everyday consumer tools. Still, considering the variety of alternative building materials like metals and plastics, a common question is, “How do you determine when to use thermoplastic components?” Real Seal answers below.
When to Use Thermoplastic Components
Thermoplastics are re-meltable, recyclable, durable, chemically resistant, strong, environmentally friendly plastic materials. They are a form of plastic polymer that becomes pliable or moldable at a high temperature and solidifies when cold. The common types of thermoplastics include:
Polyethylene (PE) is used in packaging, containers, and piping.
Polypropylene (PP) is used in automotive components, textiles, and household items.
Polycarbonate (PC) is known for its resistance and is used in eyewear and electronic housings.
Acrylic (PMMA) is used in lighting fixtures and displays.
Nylon (PA) is frequently used in gears, bearings, and textiles.
When determining if thermoplastic would be better than its alternatives, some precautions need to be taken. Consider the following when choosing between thermoplastic or another type of material.
Lightweight Requirements
When there is a need to reduce weight, thermoplastic may be the perfect solution compared to metals and ceramics, which are significantly heavier. Industries like aerospace and automotive need lightweight materials to improve fuel efficiency and performance.
In the automotive. industry, manufacturers use thermoplastics in bumpers, dashboards, and interior panels to reduce the weight of the vehicles. The reduced vehicle weight, in turn, makes the car function more safely.
High Volume Production
For components for consumer electronics, toys, or packaging, thermoplastics are an ideal, cost-effective solution with consistent quality. Having consistent quality is essential for bulk productions when items should be uniform.
Flexibility and Design Freedom
If you need design flexibility, they are the ideal material for your product. You can mold thermoplastics into intricate shapes, allowing manufacturers to create components with fine details or integrated functionalities. This property makes thermoplastics ideal for medical devices requiring intricate designs and electronic casings with precision cutouts for ports and buttons.
Resistance to Impact and Wear
Some thermoplastics like polycarbonate and nylon can withstand impact, harsh conditions, and frequent use. This makes them ideal for protective gear—like helmets, shields, and safety goggles—and for mechanical parts—like gears, bearings, and housings in machinery.
Cost Efficiency
Often more comfortable than their ceramic and metal counterparts, especially when it comes to large-scale productions, they can also be reused and recycled. These features enhance their cost-effectiveness even more.
Environmental Considerations
The world’s growing concern for sustainability and the impact of plastics on the environment demands the reuse and efficient recycling of plastics. Countries around the globe are showing innovation and creativity in tackling the issue of plastic waste. Many are pushing for a circular economy that promotes the reuse of materials. The recyclability of thermoplastics makes them an attractive option. One can easily melt, reform, and reuse them in different applications such as green building materials, reusable containers, and automotive interiors.
Thermal and Chemical Resistance Needs
Some thermoplastics like polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) and polyetheretherketone (PEEK) are resistant to extreme temperatures and corrosive chemicals, making them suitable for:
Industrial Piping
Electrical Insulation
Medical Implants
Transparent Applications
In some products, optical clarity is important. This is where thermoplastics like acrylic and polycarbonate are ideal. They are used in:
Tail lights and headlamp covers in automotive lighting
Screens and signage in display panels
Transparent partitions requiring high strength, such as those used in aquariums
Limitations of Thermoplastics
Although the versatility of thermoplastics makes them the perfect solution, they are still imperfect. This is due to the fact that they still have limitations. In extremely high temperatures and environments, thermosetting plastics or metals may be the better alternative. In addition, exposure to UV radiation or certain chemicals may cause degradation to some thermoplastics.
Explore How Thermoplastics Can Help You
The adaptability, durability, recyclability, and cost-effectiveness of thermoplastics are revolutionizing various industries. If you want to improve product design with lightweight materials, create high-performance specialty seals, or develop components using innovative materials like rubber polyurethane, thermoplastics may be the versatile solution that can meet your modern needs. If you are ready to find the perfect solution for your application, get in touch with our experts today, and we will be happy to help you bring your vision to life.
Compression molding is a manufacturing process that creates a number of different products. It is popular as it is useful in producing both rubber and plastic products However, it can also be used for sealants. Used in a variety of applications, the process is part of products you use in your everyday life. This includes automotive parts, household products, electrical insulation, sealants, and gaskets. You may wonder, what is compression molding? Below you will find more information about the manufacturing process.
What Is Compression Molding?
Compression and transfer molding is a process where material is placed in a heated mold. Once in the mold, pressure is applied to shape the material. The process is highly effective as it uses both heat and pressure. This creates strong and durable materials. The step-by-step process of compression molding is outlined below.
Preparation
The first step in the process is material preparation. The material is a prepared solid and is usually made from rubber or plastic. It is essentially performed to look similar to the final product. Once the material is prepared, the mold is preheated. It is made of two parts to make the material much easier to shape.
Material Placement and Curing
The preformed material is placed inside the mold after it has been preheated. Once inside, the separate parts of the mold are placed together and pressure is applied. The pressure then forces the material into the desired shape. The combined heat and pressure cure the material. Curing involves the hardening and solidification of the material. Depending on the size and type of the material, this can take a few minutes to a few hours.
Final Product
Once the material has been fully cured, it takes the shape of the mold. The mold is then removed and excess material is trimmed off. From there, the material can be used in the desired application.
Common Materials Used in Compression Molding
Compression molds often use thermoset materials. This type of material is characterized by the fact that they cannot be melted down once they have been set. This means that heating them up and curing them creates a final product. There are several different sealing solutions and materials. If you are considering what materials to use for your applications, the following are the most common materials.
Plastic is a common material used in compression molding. Some of the plastic materials include epoxy, phenolic, and melanin. These thermoset materials are strong and heat-resistant which is why they are used often.
Is Compression Molding Right for Your Application?
Compression molding offers several advantages over alternative methods. Consider the following if you are on the fence about what to choose.
Reduced Material Waste
Compression molding conserves material waste which can save you a lot of time and money in the long run. It only uses what is necessary and can fit within the mold. Any extra material after the curing process has finished is removed and recycled. However, this is a marginal amount as compared to other methods.
Cost-Effective
Compression molding is a cost-effective solution if you are molding large parts. While there is an initial investment into the mold, the overall cost per part is much lower. This can offer long-term benefits to your business’s bottom line.
Customization
Compression molding offers maximum customization. The mold can be in different shapes and sizes to meet your application’s needs. This is helpful for so many industries as precision is critical in compression molding.
O-rings are circular seals that are small but play a major role in various applications. They ensure that machines and equipment are working properly. They are present in a lot of everyday items you may not even notice. From household appliances to the automotive industry, O-rings are a staple in so many things. Below you will find an overview of O-rings.
An Overview of O-Rings
O-rings are common seals made from flexible materials. They are often made from rubber or plastic. They are ring-shaped and designed to fit into a groove between two surfaces. When they are compressed, they are effective in sealing fluids and gas. They are used in a variety of applications to prevent leakage.
Function of O-Rings
O-rings and sealing products are common in a wide variety of applications. They are effective in sealing fluid and gas. They are placed in between two surfaces to create a barrier. The function of O-rings includes compression, expansion, and seal integrity. The compression occurs when the two surfaces the O-ring is between are pushed together. When the O-ring is squeezed it is easily compressed as it is made from pliable materials, such as plastic or rubber.
One of the key functions of the O-ring is that it expands. When it is compressed, the material expands outwards. This ensures that the O-ring operates effectively by preventing leakage. The reliability of O-rings is made possible by the materials it is made from. The quality of the material is key to the overall function of the seal and application. Industrial and consumer product seals, such as O-rings, can be customized. This includes their size and the materials they are made from.
Materials Used for O-Rings
O-rings are made from several different materials. The type of material depends on the specific application. Consider the following common materials used for O-rings.
Silicone
Silicone O-rings are excellent in applications that reach extreme temperatures. This includes food processing and certain medical applications. Silicone is flexible and can withstand extreme temperatures.
Fluorocarbon
Fluorocarbon O-rings are another common material used. The material is highly effective in applications with extremely high temperatures. Common applications include engines and chemical processing. Fluorocarbon O-rings are both resistant to heat and chemicals.
Nitrile Rubber
Nitrile rubber is one of the most common materials used for O-rings. The nature of rubber is highly effective in applications that require O-rings. This is because they are resistant to oil and other chemicals. Common applications that use O-rings made from rubber include the industrial machinery and automotive industries.
Key Features of O-Rings
There are several features of O-rings that make them a top choice as compared to their competitors. Common alternatives include gaskets, mechanical seals, lip seals, or face seals. While each application is uniquely different, O-rings offer several advantages.
Versatile
O-rings can be used in a wide range of applications. They are flexible and versatile making them a top choice in several applications. This includes applications that are moving and non-moving, such as engines or medical devices.
Cost-Effective
Reducing costs without any risk to safety is key for businesses. O-rings are highly reliable yet cost-effective. This is why they are the go-to seal choice in so many applications.
Reliable
O-rings can be easily customized to meet your unique application’s needs. Because of this, the reliability of O-rings is unparalleled. When they are the right size and installed correctly, they are highly reliable when it comes to performance.
Ease of Installation
Unlike other seals, O-rings are easy to install. This is highly beneficial as you can reduce the time you spend on installation. When they need to be replaced, they are also easy to remove and reinstall.
The material you choose for your product or application is key. It can reduce the risk of liability and ensure your credibility. Thermoset materials are used in so many products and applications because they offer advantages their competitors cannot. Below, you will find the benefits of using thermoset materials.
Benefits of Using Thermoset Materials
Thermoset materials are a type of plastic that offers several benefits. They are a highly unique material as they cannot be melted or reshaped after being cured, unlike thermoplastic materials, their top competitor. If you are thinking about which options are right for your product or application, consider the following benefits of thermoset materials.
Highly Durable
One of the most important features of any application is durability. Thermoset materials are highly durable. They are very strong and extremely resistant to wear and tear, which is why they are used in applications with harsh conditions. They are also highly beneficial in products that are consistently and strenuously used. For this reason, thermoset materials are commonly used in the automotive industry and industrial equipment.
Heat Resistant
A major advantage of using thermoset materials is their heat resistance. They can withstand extremely high temperatures. Compared to thermoplastics, thermoset materials maintain their integrity. Accordingly, they will not lose their strength or melt in high temperatures. This durability is excellent for applications like electrical insulators, which are meant to withstand extreme temperatures.
Electrical Insulation
Thermoset materials are highly beneficial as they are great electrical insulators. They effectively prevent the flow of electricity from going where it’s not supposed to go, making them ideal for use in electrical components and wiring. Their unique properties reduce the risk of electrical shock, which is necessary in electrical systems where safety is the top priority.
Corrosion Resistant
Thermoset materials are highly durable and resistant to corrosion. They do not degrade or rust when exposed to moisture or other corrosive substances. For applications that are outdoors and exposed to the elements, thermoset materials are a top choice. It can protect the application and ensure optimal functioning even in the worst weather.
Chemical Resistant
Resistance to chemicals is vital in so many applications. One of the significant benefits of thermoset materials is that they are chemical resistant. They maintain their stability even when exposed to acids, bases, and solvents. This quality is highly beneficial in products and applications that are close to harsh chemicals. The risk of a chemical leak or spill can cause severe damage. Thermoset materials can give you peace of mind due to their chemical resistance.
Flexible
Flexibility is key in many products and applications. Thermoset materials are highly flexible. They can be easily molded into different shapes to meet the needs of the application. In fact, they are often used in applications with intricate parts and details. This physical and functional flexibility, along with the other benefits of thermoset material, means they are often used in seal products and mechanical component goods.
Cost-Effective
When choosing the right material for your application, cost may be a factor. While thermoset materials are more expensive upfront, their benefits make them a cost-effective solution in the long run. They are durable and have a long lifespan, which reduces your costs as you will not have to deal with costly repairs and replacements.
Seal Products and Mechanical Component Goods
If you are considering material options for your product or application, contact the team at Real Seal. They are trusted experts in seal products and mechanical component goods and can share the benefits of using thermoset materials and much more. Call today for more information!
Seals are an important part of so many applications. From textile manufacturing and die casters to printers and the automobile industry, seals are a key component. Because of their role in so many applications, maintenance is critically important. Seal assessment should be a regular part of the maintenance process. So, how often should you replace seals? Consider the information about seal maintenance below.
How Often Should You Replace Seals?
Due to the natural wear and tear that comes with so many applications and sealing systems, they can degrade over time. This is true even with the most durable and long-lasting of seals. In addition to wear and tear, certain issues may cause seals to wear out faster than they should. Because of this, regular maintenance is critical. Regular maintenance allows you to see when you need to fix or replace the seal.
The frequency at which seals should be replaced depends on several factors. This includes the environment they are in and the material they are made up of. It’s also important to look for the signs that indicate the seal needs to be replaced. This is because some seals can last months to years. Consulting with the manufacturer’s guidelines is necessary to understand the lifespan of each unique seal.
Signs That a Seal Needs to Be Replaced
When the signs for replacement are clear, it is important to do it right away. Failing to replace faulty seals can impact the application and be potentially dangerous. Consider the following signs that it is time to replace seals.
Visible Damage
If you look at the seal and you can see damage, it’s time to replace it. Common signs include cracks, tears, or deformation. Cracks and tears can leave the application vulnerable to leaks. Additionally, warped or misshapen seals can impact the overall function of the application. Replace the seals immediately if you notice any visible issues.
Leakage
Seals are meant to keep things tight and prevent liquids and gases from getting out. Leaks can impact the application greatly and potentially cause serious harm. Leaks are a clear sign that it is time to replace your seals.
Reduced Performance
If your application is performing poorly it may be due to the seals in the system. This may include pressure or friction issues. Reduced pressure seriously impacts performance. Issues with friction can lead to overheating. The accelerated wear and tear that comes with performance issues can often be addressed by replacing the seals.
Seal Maintenance Tips
Extending the life of seals can ensure reliability and optimal performance. Replacing seals when necessary is an important investment in the applications. However, there are several ways you can ensure your application’s seals last. Consider implementing the following preventive maintenance tips.
Proper Installation
Ensuring seals last begins with installation. Proper installation can improve the overall performance of your application. It also is highly beneficial when it comes to the longevity of seals.
Quality of the Seals
Investing in high-quality seals can pay off in dividends. Finding the seal that is right for your application is necessary. Consult with a top sealing components supplier to find the perfect seals.
Regular Maintenance
Creating a schedule for routine maintenance is a must. Work with a skilled sealing components supplier to find out when and how often you should check your application’s seals. This allows you to see the warning signs that there may be issues. Prompt replacement is key to saving you time and money in the long run.
Sealing Components Supplier
If you need to replace seals, contact the team at Real Seal. They are trusted experts in the field. Real Sea offers both seal products and mechanical component goods. Contact their team today for more information!
Seals are used in so many industries. From the automotive industry to the aerospace industry, seals are integral to the function of developing technology. Because of their importance, it is critical to choose suitable materials for the seal. Several factors contribute to the analysis. Below, you will find more information on the importance of choosing the right sealing material.
Importance of Choosing the Right Sealing Material
Choosing the right material for your application is crucial. The right material can ensure optimal performance and longevity. Several key factors require consideration as you navigate the process. Consider the following as you choose the material for your seals.
Temperature Considerations
The surrounding conditions are a necessary consideration when choosing the seal material. Consider the maximum and minimum temperatures the seal will be exposed to. Certain materials are less effective at varying temperatures. Some materials may lose flexibility in the cold, while others may become too loose in hot weather. It is important to do your research when it comes to temperature exposure, as this can have a lasting impact on your seal application.
UV Exposure
The sun is an important external factor to consider in most industries, especially when it comes to certain sealant materials. Consider whether the seal will be exposed to sunlight and for how long. UV exposures can dramatically impact certain sealant materials. Not only can the material lose its longevity, but it can also cause serious issues with your application. AdditionallyIf the sealant will be exposed to the sun, it is vital to choose laboratory-tested materials that can withstand UV exposure.
Surrounding Weather
If your application requires seals to be exposed to the elements, consider the surrounding weather. Is it hot, cold, rainy, humid, or dry? Understand the ranges of temperatures and what elements the seal will be regularly exposed to. Finding the correct material that fits within the weather patterns the seal is exposed to is critical.
Application Requirements
Certain applications may have specific requirements. For example, some applications need the seal material to be hard, while others need more flexibility. Every sealant material has different properties. Consider your application’s unique needs before you choose the sealant material.
Types of Seal Materials
Based on the information above, there are several considerations when choosing the right sealant material. Below are some of the most common types of seals used in a wide variety of applications.
Silicone
Silicone is great for applications with extreme temperature ranges. It is effective in withstanding high and low temperatures. It is also resistant to UV light, making it a great option if the seal is exposed to sunlight. This material is often used in medical devices and electronics.
Neoprene
Neoprene is excellent for applications that require durability. They are resistant to oils, water, and physical stress. This makes them an excellent choice if you need an all-around seal material. They are often used in gaskets and hoses as they can withstand so much stress.
Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (“EPDM”)
EDPM is an excellent seal material for outdoor use. It is highly resistant to weathering and sun exposure and maintains its flexibility in cold temperatures. It is commonly used in HVAC systems’ window seals and in the automotive industry.
Sealing and Mechanical Components Supplier
The most important step in choosing the right seal material is consulting with an expert. They can provide you with their insight based on your unique application’s needs. The team at Real Seal is skilled in seals and mechanical component goods. If you have questions about your application, contact the top sealing and mechanical components supplier today!
A vehicle’s engine needs regular maintenance to ensure proper functionality. This maintenance involves keeping an eye on several critical parts, including the valve stem seals, which are essential for regulating oil consumption and lubricant to ensure that your engine performs appropriately. The seals not only prevent oil from leaking into your car’s combustion chamber but also allow the valves to move freely.
Valve stem seals that are in good working condition can save you the time and money that come with lengthy repairs and replacements. Unfortunately, the passing of time and the use of your vehicle will wear out the seals and create unnecessary problems. If you are using quality specialty seals in your care, your next step is to learn how to check valve stem seals.
It is important to be aware of the signs of worn valve stem seals before starting to check them.
Blue smoke from the exhaust
Excessive oil consumption
Fouled spark plugs
Poor engine performance
Compromised acceleration power
Increased emissions
How to Check Valve Stem Seals
Lift open the hood and use a dipstick to check your machine’s oil level. Compare it to the levels seen when the machine oil was checked after a similar amount of usage. Is it lower or just about the same?
Start your engine and observe the exhaust. What is the color of the smoke? Bluish smoke means that your engine is burning leaked oil. This is a sign of a faulty seal.
Beware of rattling or tapping noises. Unidentified sounds may indicate a problem with your valves.
Use a diagnostic reader, which will give you different error codes, and refer to your owner’s manual.
Inspect the valve stem seals. This step is more difficult as it requires disassembling. Consider hiring a professional to do this.
If you are confident that you can dismantle your engine without causing damage, ensure that you are parked on a flat surface and that the engine has cooled before you begin. Disconnect the negative terminal of the battery to prevent accidental shocks. Check the valve seal for signs of wear and tear. Hardening, cracking, or deformation are bad signs. Check the surrounding area for any oil leaks. Oil leakage means that you have a damaged seal.
Causes of Bad Stem Seals
Problematic or damaged stem seals are usually caused by
defects in the seal itself
improper installation
increased operating temperatures
deterioration of fluid
Even if they are made with durable rubber, seals can crack, break, or wear out, allowing oil to seep into the engine’s cylinders.
Damaged stem seals can lead to the accumulation of carbon deposits, which can eventually cause problems with other engine components.
If you have a damaged or faulty seal, the best thing to do is have it replaced. Your new seal will prevent further damage to your machine and help you avoid costly repairs down the road. It is important to check valve stem seals so you can be aware of such issues early on.
Preventive Maintenance
Follow a regular preventative maintenance schedule. Addressing issues before they escalate can avoid big problems. Taking good care of your vehicle and all of its parts can also prevent untimely expenses.
Consider investing in high-quality valve seals. A trusted and reliable supplier of defect-free products can help you protect your machine so that it can serve you well for a long time.
Replace Your Faulty Seals
Remember that replacing your faulty seals on time can save you a lot of trouble and money. Make sure to regularly check valve stem seals and replace them if necessary to prevent more significant and costly problems later on.
If you think you need to replace your seals, look for reputable mechanical component manufacturers and ask them about their specialty seals today.
Gaskets are an integral part of any application, especially in automotive engines where they play a crucial role in keeping the engine temperatures in check. This is why choosing a gasket material deserves special attention. Choose the wrong one, and you could see a significant drop in production.
Depending on what your application requires, silicone could be just the material you need.
Silicone Versatility
If you are considering silicone for your application, you will have a wide variety of choices in properties that will make it a perfect fit:
Silicone sheets and rolls come in a variety of thicknesses, from 0.10” thick to .500” thick.
Silicone can have a hardness anywhere from 10 Shore A to 80 Shore A.
Molding compounds can be pigmented to match the color chips or Pantone color designations.
Closed cell silicone sponge and foam come in sheets and rolls, from .032” thick to .500” thick. Its densities range from ultra soft to extra firm.
Silicone rubber has the broadest range of firmness and densities.
Fluorosilicone is resistant to fuel, oil, and chemicals.
Compression Set Resistance
Compression set, which occurs when a rubber cannot return to its original thickness after experiencing prolonged compressive stress, is an important factor to consider when choosing a gasket material. If compression set is one of your main concerns, silicone will be one of your best choices: two of the top-ranked compression-resistant materials are silicone and silicone sponge.
Flame Retardant
If silicone is compounded, its ability to resist flames is impressive. It can achieve UL94V0, UL94V1, and UL94HF1 flammability standards. For this reason, silicone is relied on for analytical instrumentation, telecommunications equipment, and controls found in Mass Transit systems. Even if silicone burns (which is only possible under extreme temperatures), its byproducts are non-toxic, and its residual ash can even provide electrical insulation.
FDA Regulations
Silicone can be compounded with FDA-approved ingredients to gain properties like high tear strength and flexing by using platinum-based catalysts. This makes silicone great for healthcare, instrumentation, food processing, and medical diagnostic equipment.
Electrical Conductivity
By blending silicone with nickel-graphite or silver-plated aluminum particles, silicone can be used as an electrically conductive gasket providing EMI shielding for use in electronic communication equipment. This form of silicone comes in a sheet or a custom-molded gasket.
Electrostatic Discharge (ESD)
In applications where ESD is a problem, silicone can be blended with a semi-conductive carbon to gain ESD properties.
Extreme Temperature Resistance
Unlike other organic elastomers like EPDM and neoprene, silicone rubber can retain its thickness even after exposure to a wide range of temperatures. This range goes as low as -60°C to as high as +250°C. In fact:
It can be used at 150°C continuously without experiencing any change in its properties.
Certain compounds can even withstand up to 200°C for 10,000 hours or more.
Certain forms of silicone can withstand 350°C for short periods.
Most forms of organic rubber become embrittled at -20° to -30°C.
Some kinds of silicone products can retain elasticity at -100°C and lower.
Silicone Sponge and Silicone Foam
Silicone sponge (also called closed cell silicone sponge) is made from a thin sheet of uncured silicone gum. Closed cell means that the cells are not interconnecting, preventing water from wicking through the sponge. It also has strong mechanical properties.
Silicone foam is an open cell, lightweight material. Higher density open cell variants are suitable for water sealing, while lower densities will allow moisture to pass through.
Other Properties
Due to its closed cell structure, silicone is great at water sealing with relatively low compressive forces. UL 50 and UL 50E are available.
Silicone is excellent at resisting UV and ozone because it has an inorganic backbone. This extends the performance of the gasket in the long-term.
Silicone sponge is much tougher than silicone foam.
All of silicone’s properties make it a great choice for outdoor environments with extreme conditions, such as the Arctic tundra and the desert.
No matter what gasket material you choose, make sure that you understand the major causes of gasket failure, and how to prevent them.
Consult the Industry Leader
If you are ready to make a purchase for your seal, consult the industry experts at Real Seal today. Real Seal has been an industry leader since the 1970s, and continues to innovate with its own chemist and technical staff. No matter what type of seal or mechanical component you are looking for, Real Seal will have the answer you need.
We have been talking a lot about seals lately, but where are they actually used? Seals are used for many different things in various industries for various applications. Industrial seals are used to seal the opening found between a static and rotating component. It is very important to use high performance seals so that equipment works efficiently. Using proper seals will save companies money and energy cost.
Here are the top ten industries that use hydraulic, pneumatic seals, or a combination of the two.
1. Agricultural Machinery – Farm Equipment
It is vital for agricultural machinery to be functioning at the optimum level, especially during harvest season. These machines are out in the elements facing various weather conditions, UV exposure, and contamination from things around them. In order to repair and maintain farm equipment, one must use high performance seals in order to increase productivity and lower expenses. Harvesting, threshing, baling, drainage, and crop harvesting machinery use single acting hydraulic seals. The preferred materials are super polymers like Oz Red Super Polymer (ORSP), Oz Monyt and Wifflon. These products have superior lubrications properties and are extremely durable.
2. Amusement Machines
The Brooklyn economy is supported each year with a $58 million contribution from Coney Island in New York. On average, there are 15 million visitors annually. If any of the amusement rides break down that is a huge loss in income. Rides have to shut down for repairs if seals fail so it is important to use proper seals. Fair ground rides use low friction seals and wipers in rubber, polyurethane or TMCF seals and wipers in control valves.
3. Automobile Manufacturers
Vehicle assembly departments usually use pneumatic rams on assembly jigs. Pneumatics are quieter and cleaner so it prevents leakage from contamination the surroundings. Polyurethane and rubber which are sound absorbing materials are effective for achieving significant compressed air savings.
4. Cheese Manufacturers
Manufacturing and packaging machines in the cheese industry use pneumatic seals, spring energized seals, wipers and guide rings. High pressure nitrile rubber (HNBR), Teflon, or wifflon materials are recommended for these machines.
5. Coal Mining Equipment
Underground machinery makes extensive use of hydraulics while pneumatics are used for roof support machinery. The use of high performance parts contributes to safety in the mining industry. High performance parts are needed so that there is little downtime and minimal maintenance required. HNBR and Oz Monyt are often used as they are high pressure materials.
6. Concrete Pumping
Concrete is heavy, abrasive, viscous, and contains pieces of hard rock and will solidify if not kept moving. Because of this, there are many challenges to designing concrete pumps. Dangerous blockages can occur if the pump system is not set properly. Specialized sealing and proper guided element replacement is essential. There are special designs by Oz seals that are suitable for hydraulic rams that are used to operate concrete pumping plungers and hydraulic rams on the boom.
7. Diecasters
In order to die cast, you force molten metal under high pressure into a mold cavity. You can use a hot-chamber die casting or cold-chamber die casting. HNBR and viton materials are used as they can withstand extreme temperatures; they are used on tamping and furnace rams. Polymer compatibility should be checked for possible HFA/FHB fluid compatibility since hydraulic or mechanical pistons may come into contact with fireproof liquids.
8. Earth-Movers and Excavators
Heavy earthmoving, excavators, dozers, and backhoe loaders require high performance oils seals and hydraulic seal kids. The heaviest user of high performance seals and reliable Oz wipers are the mining and construction industries.
9. Printers
The fast-paced publishing industry needs machine parts that are manufactured with high performance polyurethanes and rubber materials. This allows for greater speeds and higher productivity. Pneumatics such as Teflon seals with spring energizers are used for printing presses and packaging machines.
10. Textile Manufacturers
Textile machinery uses things like shaft seals, spring energized Teflon seals and mechanical seals. A high performance polymer such as ORSP or Wifflon is ideal for compact spinning, high pressures and constant rotation of the air rams.
There are several other industries that use high performance seals for various applications. To find out what you require for your industry contact the professionals at Real Seal and they will be able to assess your needs.
What comes to mind when you think of the uses of plastic? Many people think of bags and packaging, plastic cutlery, containers, or other kitchenware, and toys. Not many of us think of sweaters, food, or wood furniture. Unbeknownst to many, all of these things are made from polymers; some are called plastics and some are not and the distinction can be arbitrary.
Plastics consist primarily of polymer molecules made of carbon. Similar to a bicycle chain, the links of the polymer are attached together. Polymers are a broad category that include plastics and silicones. Silicones are based on silicon rather than carbon. Polymers also include DNA.
The shape of polymers gives plastics their elasticity which allows them to be molded into shape. We have used naturally derived plastics for many years. In Mexico, the Olmecs played with balls made of rubber which is a natural polymer. They did this a millennium and a half before Christ. Uses of plastic go back even before the use by the Olmecs though. Wood contains cellulose which is a polymer that give plants tough cell walls. The cellulose gives wood its stiffness and durability. The long strands of cellulose are separated at pulping mills and that is what gives paper its strength.
Cellulose also provided the raw material for another breakthrough in plastic. Parkesine is a material that has been used in many products including cutlery, buttons, and combs. Two Americans took Parkesine and added camphor to it which made it more malleable and they renamed it celluloid. This became a raw material used in the film industry.
In the 18th Century, French explorer Charles-Marie de la Condamine discovered that there was a rubber tree in the Amazon basin. It was not until the 1840s that American Charles Goodyear and British born Thomas Hancock took out patents for vulcanized rubber – rubber which was treated with Sulphur to make it more durable.
Rubber also made electrification possible as it was used to insulate electrical switches. The big breakthrough which is considered the birth of modern plastics came in 1907 when Leo Baekeland invented Bakelite. Bakelite is one of the first plastics that is made from synthetic components; it was made from fossil fuels.
More synthetic plastics followed with polystyrene in 1929, polyester in 1930, polyvinylchloride and polythene in 1933, and nylon in 1935. The plastic industry grew during the war effort when they were used in everything including military vehicles and radar insulation.
Companies were building plants where they could turn crude oil into plastics. In 1948 new products such as Tupperware were becoming available.
Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) was a versatile product that was invented in 1941. It can be used to make many different things such as drink bottles, winter gloves, and plastic for packaging flowers. The only difference is the way the material is cast.
Properties and uses of plastics can be changed by altering their structure just a little bit. The plastic that a milk bottle is made of can be changed from polyethylene to polypropylene (a stronger material) simply by adding one carbon to it. The material made by adding a carbon can strengthen the plastic enough to make things like sippy cups for toddlers.
Some polymers are compostable and over months or years they will be broken down by microbes. Some plastics however do no break down and cause an environmental concern.
It may become more difficult to get plastics. Most currently come from oil and gas but these sources could run out and we will have to go back to using biological sources. Some plastics that have been derived from crude oil are now being produced from sugar cane.
Oil may become too expensive to use. At that point things may turn to industrial bio-technology for the manufacture of plastics.
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