Engineering

Inflatable Seal Installation, Operation and Maintenance

There are numerous cross-section seals and applications. Seal Master Corporation should confirm specific installation procedures for your specific application. What follows is the recommended installation procedure for typical G-type snap-in inflatable seals.

Installation: First make sure the retainer groove is clean and free of debris, burrs, and sharp edges. Next, locate the hole in the retainer for the air supply stem and install the stem through the hole. Position the seal along the retainer to check overall length. Note that the seal may be slightly shorter or longer than the retainer. You will be able to compensate for this slight variance during the installation.

Lubricate the seal base with a mild solution of liquid soap and water. Starting at the stem, install the seal into the retainer using an angular motion as shown.
Snap the seal down into the retainer until positioned as shown.

Do not use a screwdriver or any sharp instrument to install the seal. Make certain that the seal is not crowded or stretched during installation. Adjust the seal in the groove if this condition exists.

Operation - To operate the seal attach a clean regulated air source to the seal inlet hose. Set the regulator to the recommended operating pressure for your specific application. Inflate the seal and check for leaks in the system. Seal Master Corporation specifies normal operating pressure and maximum operating pressure for your application. DO NOT OVER-PRESSURIZE THE SEAL.

Maintenance -It is recommended that you periodically check the seal for signs of wear and damage. Keep the sealing surface clean and free of debris that could cause damage to the seal.

Avoid over-inflation.

Clean the seal with soap and water, or if necessary with a chemical that will not degrade the rubber compound.

Do not hesitate to consult Seal Master Corporation should you have an questions about the installation, operation, and maintenance of your inflatable seals.

Storage of Elastomeric Inflatable Seals

It is recommended that spare inflatable seals be stored in cool, dark place. They should not be stored in an area where heat is present, i.e., next to a steam line or other heat sources. The seals should not be stored in a position that will stress the seals, i.e., do not hang seals over pegs, pipes, etc. And do not fold seals tightly on themselves or coil tightly to save space. Always keep seal as far away as possible from motors, switch gear or any other equipment capable of generating ozone.

It is recommended that stored seals be inspected every two years or more often for ozone cracking or checking. Bend the seal at points around its length to see if small tightly spaced cracks appear. Inflate the seal to 20 psig and check underwater for leaks. A soap/water spray solution can also be used to check for leaks. If applicable perform any other specific functional testing that is necessary to insure usability .