Installing Rubber Seals: Construction Machinery and Sealing Elements
Correct installation of the rubber sealing elements used in construction machinery is a critical step for long, trouble-free performance. Ada Kauçuk, based in Ostim, Ankara, shares below the steps to follow when fitting hydraulic and pneumatic sealing elements on construction machinery. Following them improves the performance of the parts and keeps installation errors to a minimum.
1. Cleanliness and the work area
The cleanliness of the work area and the tools used is very important. Dust, dirt and other foreign matter can harm the performance of rubber sealing elements. There should be nothing foreign on the workbench and all surfaces should be clean.
2. Checking seal and guide grooves
Before fitting, check the seal and guide groove dimensions, radii, chamfers and surface finish carefully. Pay particular attention to burrs left on corners, as they can deform the sealing elements and cause installation errors.
3. Lubricating the sealing elements
All sealing elements should be lubricated before fitting, preferably with the system oil. This helps the rubber seat properly and seal. Avoid lubricating with grease, however, because some greases can damage the rubber compound.
4. Using installation tools
The tools used during installation must not have pointed or sharp edges. Sharp edges can damage the rubber and reduce its performance, so choose suitable installation tools.
5. Heating during installation
Heating sealing elements in an uncontrolled way before fitting can damage the structure of the rubber. Rubber elements should therefore be fitted without heating and protected from excessive temperatures.
6. Testing after installation
Once installation is complete, the hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder should be tested. During testing, however, do not exceed key specifications such as pressure, temperature and sliding speed; otherwise the sealing elements may deform.
7. Finishing work and temperature control
After testing, make sure the temperature does not exceed 80 °C during any further work on the assembled cylinder (painting, for example). Excessive temperature can harm the performance of the rubber elements.
Conclusion
Following these steps when fitting rubber sealing elements on construction machinery makes the parts last longer and helps the machines run smoothly. With years of experience, Ada Kauçuk supplies high-quality sealing solutions for construction machinery and pays attention to every detail of the installation process.
Finding the right part before installation
Just as important as installation quality is making sure the part being fitted is really the right one. If the code on the removed element is unreadable, work from its dimensions: enter the inner diameter, outer diameter and height in the size finder to list matching products.
Because the wiper and the rod seal work together, it is best to assess both at the same time; size tables are available on the wipers and hydraulic rod seals pages.