The Foundation of Oil Seals: Dual Mechanisms for Lubrication and Sealing
Oil seals are designed to prevent leakage of oils, liquids and gases while also providing lubrication that ensures the smooth motion of components like rotating shafts and pistons, as well as low friction. Oil seals used in automobile engines and motors are also built to last for 10 years or 100,000 kilometers without replacement. But how do they maintain seal integrity, preventing the leakage of oil and ther fluids through the gap between roating or reciprocating components and the seal, while also sustaining low friction over time? It might seem almost too convenient, but the secret lies in the coexistence of two mechanisms: lubrication, which enables low friction, and sealing, which prevents leakage. This article will explain these mechanisms in detail.
