Providing a reliable seal across a range of applications where more traditional elastomeric seals may fail, we introduce spring-energised PTFE seals.
We know the importance of high-quality o rings and trustworthy seals, and we understand that choosing the right seal and gasket for your application can be critical.
You must take into account material compatibility, environmental factors, application requirements, cost, and more.
That’s why, as one of the leading Leeds o-ring suppliers, we supply o-rings and gaskets in a range of material composites, all of high quality, and all seals, which you can rely on.
One such reliable and robust seal is the spring-energised PTFE seal, which we will look at in more detail throughout this post.
What is a spring-energised PTFE seal?
A PTFE seal primarily consists of a U-shaped jacket (pressure-actuated), a metal (typically stainless steel) spring-loaded device, and high-performing PTFE sealing materials.
Spring seals are made from high-performance fluoroplastic compounds and engineered plastics that offer robust physical and technical characteristics.
These seals, in comparison to their elastomeric seal counterparts, are rigid rather than flexible, with the spring mechanism helping to provide a consistent load, which is what helps to create a tight seal and prevent leaks – critical in specific applications in various industries.
The system pressure is then utilised to create the additional sealing force, with the spring forcing the sealing lips against the gland and rod surfaces.
These types of seals can also include a range of fillers to support additional elements required by the applications, fillers such as:
- Bronze
- Glass fibre
- Graphite
- Carbon
- Ceramics
- Stainless steel
- And other additives to meet specific requirements.
Spring energised PTFE seal definition
When we look at the spring-energized PTFE seal definition, we can describe this particular type of seal as a seal that can make use of various jacket profiles and spring types, matched with various materials, rods, and pistons, and which are available in two main configurations: face and rotary.
This particular type of o-ring becomes compressed when it is installed within the seal gland, creating a seal between the two sealing surfaces that is gas-tight. The seal then expands when introducing pressure as part of the application requirements.
Providing a radial force at the seal jacket when it is installed at the seal cavity, it is the stainless-steel material that energises the seal, making it an ideal solution when the media pressure is low.
The types of seal springs available range from light, medium, and heavy, with spring types including:
- Continuous contact spring
- Cantilever spring
- Helical wound spring
- Elliptical coil spring
Your choice of spring and sealing material will depend on the application requirements, and it is always recommended to take into account all pros and cons of all seals before making your final decision.
The aim is to choose a seal that will provide you with the optimal sealing solution.
This type of seal is used when elastomeric seals are unable to meet the frictional, temperature, pressure, or chemical resistance requirements of the application.
Use for spring energised PTFE seals
Spring energised seals can be found in:
- Pharmaceuticals and medical applications
- Food and beverage sector
- Oil and gas industry
- Chemical processing
- Energy sector
- Automotive
- Aerospace
Benefits of spring energised seals
- They’re suitable for a range of applications that operate in fluctuating temperatures.
- A spring-energised seal can offer a high level of chemical resistance.
- Seal jackets are machined, not injection moulded, allowing the seal configuration to be adjusted to meet the required seal performance.
- They support friction resistance, extending the life of the seal.
- Suitable for both dynamic and static applications.
- Offer good levels of elasticity.
- They have a dry-running capability and a high surface speed.
- They are suitable for linear, rotary sealing, reciprocating dynamic sealing, abrasive media sealing, and more.
- Spring-energised PTFE seals are extrusion-resistant; there is no chemical swelling.
- They have a high PV factor, improving their chemical and solvent resistance.
- They’re great in tight tolerances, with the spring supporting varying tolerances that also help to control friction.
- Standard and customised diameters are available.
- Seals are incredibly durable and reliable, even in the most extreme conditions, providing you with peace of mind that your application is less at risk of leaks.
- Spring energised seals are corrosion-resistant.
- They are excellent in a range of environments, have excellent wear resistance, and weatherability.
O-ring suppliers UK
A spring-energised, flexible seal supports low friction, chemical compatibility, and is suitable for high-temperature ranges, high-pressure applications, and more. At SSP, we provide excellent sealing solutions to meet all requirements.
With our years of experience, we provide high-quality products at the most competitive prices, all matched by exceptional customer service from our team.
If you’re looking for o-ring suppliers in Leeds, look no further.
Contact us today.
