What are seals and covers?

Seals & covers are mechanical parts that restrict the flow of fluid. They may be used as a part of a pump, valve, or another mechanism that uses fluid power to transfer energy. Seals also are used as a mechanical device to provide a seal to an opening.

The working of seals is based on small holes, which can be opened and closed by moving parts called pistons. When the valves are fully open, pressure on the fluid causes the piston to move inward and close off the holes. If there is more pressure on one side than on the other, this causes the piston to move outward and open the holes again.

Covers, or cover seals, on the other hand, have a partly enclosed body made of metal and provide closure to bearings and shaft feed-throughs.

Seal systems & covers can be made from many materials such as rubber, silicone, metal, or plastic. The choice of material depends on its performance characteristics as well as operational factors such as cost and reliability.

What are the different types of seals and covers?

Some different types of seals & covers include:

• Gaskets
• O-rings
• Bellow seals
• Cartridge seals
• Labyrinth seals
• Radial shaft seals
• Axial seals

Applications of seals and covers

Seals can be found in domestic and industrial applications. In households, seals are used in toilets, garden hoses, and swimming pools.

In industry, one of the most common uses of seals is in the automobile sector, where seals are used to prevent oil leakage during engine operation, as well as to transport oil from one place to another.

Other common industry applications of seals include:

• Ships
• Rockets
• Industrial plant equipment
• Residential devices

Covers, or cover seals, are commonly used in:

• Bearing block sealing
• Transmissions
• Split housings
• Light metal housings