SKF
Sealing Materials
SKF manufactures power transmission seals in several high-performance materials. Nitrile rubber (NBR) is the standard for general mineral oil applications. Fluoroelastomer (FKM) provides superior high-temperature resistance and chemical compatibility. Hydrogenated nitrile (HNBR) offers excellent mechanical properties and resistance to aggressive oils. Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) lips are used for high-speed and dry-running applications. Polyacrylate (ACM) suits engines and transmissions. Silicone (VMQ) excels in static or low-speed high-temp sealing. Each material has specific temperature limits, chemical resistances, and wear characteristics. SKF’s material selection guide helps engineers pick the optimal polymer for the oil type, temperature, and shaft speed.
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NBR (Nitrile)
‑40°C to +100°C, good mineral oil resistance, most cost‑effective.
FKM (Fluorocarbon)
‑20°C to +200°C, excellent chemical and synthetic oil resistance.
HNBR (Hydrogenated Nitrile)
‑30°C to +150°C, high abrasion resistance, good for synthetic oils.
PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene)
‑250°C to +260°C, universal chemical resistance, very low friction.
ACM (Polyacrylate)
‑20°C to +150°C, good engine and transmission oil resistance.
VMQ (Silicone)
‑60°C to +200°C, excellent static seal, limited wear resistance.
The “Sour Gas” Test: Why Material Selection Is Safety‑Critical
In oilfield equipment, elastomers must resist explosive decompression. SKF tests materials under high‑pressure H₂S and CO₂ to ensure they do not blister when depressurised. The materials data sheet includes AED ratings, making it possible to select a seal that will not catastrophically fail in a well‑control situation.
Compatibility with Biodegradable Synthetic Esters
Environmentally sensitive sites use ester‑based hydraulic fluids. Standard NBR is fully compatible, but FKM may soften depending on the ester chemistry. SKF’s material compatibility database provides detailed fluid resistance charts, preventing the specification error that results in a swollen, non‑functional seal.