For wheels ends, the road, weather and frequent braking can dish out some serious punishment. And if wheel seals fail, wheel-end performance may be diminished, ultimately leading to costly repairs and downtime. The leading cause of premature wheel-seal failure is damage to the seal during installation. WSI wheel seals not only provide outstanding lubricant retention and protection against contaminants, but they are also easier to install, which significantly decreases the potential for damage during installation.That's the idea behind WSI wheel seals. The result is longer seal life and a lower cost of operation.Superior EffectivenessWSI wheel seals have been designed with an extremely stiff profile and one of the thickest steel cases used in a seal today. So the potential for installation damage is virtually eliminated. Best of all, you can use any tool to install it-even your hands.The multi-zone labyrinth design and low-friction barrier deliver uniquely outstanding durability and protection against dirt, grime, water and other contaminants. The bumper transmits the fitting force from the front of the seal to the outer diameter, acting as the first defense against contaminants. The multi-zone labyrinth features low-profile section right-angle corners, a low-friction barrier, two rubber wipers and a specifically formulated waterproof grease – for superior protection.Prime-class Materials, Dual ChoicesDesigned for drive, steer and trailer axles, WSI wheel seals are available in Standard and Premium versions.Standard wheel seals feature a nitrile compound rubber (NBR) for the sealing lip. Otherwise, Premium wheel seals feature a hydrogenated nitrile butadiene rubber (HNBR), offering additional advantages of higher temperature capability, greater wear resistance, and compatibility with all known synthetic lubricants.The Main Advantages of PTFEThe multiple advantages of PTFE have been accidentally discovered since 1938, but the main reason why PTFE seals are becoming more widely used is that they bear machines which run faster, hotter and more efficient for longer. PTFE seals allow manufacturers to offer extended maintenance periods and extended warranties.
1. Speed capability PTFE seals have been known to run above 50m/s. Not only the material temperature capability but the friction and wear may directly affect the speed capability of seals.2. Chemical Inertness Unlike rubbers which will degrade at a rate depending upon factors such as temperature, fluid compatibility and even UV, PTFE is inert to all but a few extreme chemicals.3. Low Friction & Wear These are intrinsically linked, with one of the main benefits being its dry running capability. Low friction increases efficiency, and the low wear increase life span far beyond that conventional rubber seal can be reached. Why are All Seals not Made from PTFE?Although PTFE shows better operating temperature and sealing performance in some cases, there are still some situations which are not applicable for using PTFE seals. The main downside is the extra cost compared to rubber seals, but another issue is that PTFE is a semi-rigid material. One of the downsides of semi-rigid materials is easily being scratched, which causes potential leakage. Also, it is not as effective at static sealing, particularly for low viscosity fluids. However, the benefit is that it can’t be ‘‘laid down’’ onto the shaft thus creating a act, thus reducing seal wear and shaft grooving --- which might be the major problem for rubber seals. How a PTFE Seal Works?PTFE is not as flexible as rubber, so to ensure leakage does not occur, PTFE seals are usually limited to one directional shaft for low viscosity fluids like engine oil. The sketches below show a typical PTFE seal, with a scroll embossed into the PTFE which pumps the fluid back to the bearings due to the rotation of the shaft.Design and Typical ApplicationsThere are effectively 3 Construction types as shown below, each with their own benefits depending upon the application, size & quantity.MouldedThis type is now the most common having superseded the majority of clamped design seals, particularly for engines, due to technical and cost benefits. The PTFE etched, then bonded during the moulding operation, ensuring a very secure static seal compared to the clamped designs. A selection of rubbers can be used to suit the application, but the most common is polyacrylic.ClampedThe clamped design offers many design options, where small quantities can be produced with minimal tooling cost. These are now used mainly for smaller seals or where there is pressure, such as for compressors and small pumps. With this design, the PTFE is clamped between two shells, and a rubber gasket. The seal OD is usually metal, either ground or with a sealant appliedCrimped - Solid BodyThis design is used primarily for food /rmaceutical applications and motorsport. Offered many design options, the small volumes can be produced with minimal tooling cost. The PTFE is fitted into a groove, then the metal crimped into the PTFE. Typical shell materials are SS or Aluminium.Seal In PerformanceWSI wheels seals are engineered to deliver optimum performance – protecting against contaminants for long life and low cost of operation. Search for the WSI wheel seal part to make sure you’re getting the most durable and reliable seal.More Protection from an Industry LeaderOur highly trained customer support team is equipped with the product specification, warranty and service information you need.For complete support, visit our industry-leading onlog, ordering and tracking system–with real-time access to complete parts information resources. For the total service and support you deserve, call our Customer Care Center at 886-4-8651759.Or visit .
