What is an inflatable seal?
An inflatable seal is a fabric-reinforced elastomeric tube molded in a concave, convoluted or flat configuration. It is designed to round out with the introduction of an inflation medium to form a tight barrier between a mounting and striking surface. See Seal Master "101" for more information. |
Can you design a custom seal?
YES!!! Essentially all Seal Master® inflatable seals are custom designed. Over 30-years in business and more than 6,500 unique products have been developed. For an overview of the process that matches the custom designed seal with your application, please go to "Seal Master® Inflatable Seals 101" now, or contact our sales department at 1-800-477-8436. |
How does an inflatable seal work?
Upon introduction of the inflation medium, it quickly expands to the striking surface, affecting a positive seal. When the inflation medium is removed, the seal retracts naturally to the deflated molded configuration. This provides clearance for free movement of one or both surfaces. See Seal Master "101" for more information |
Why use an inflatable seal?
An inflatable seal has several advantages over other sealing methods:
- It provides a leak-proof closure, yet allows clearance when needed.
- It simplifies the design of the structure and hardware.
- It minimizes the need for close machining and/or fabricating tolerances.
- It is not subject to compression set which negates effectiveness of other seals.
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How is an inflatable seal inflated?
The most common inflation medium is air. The specific parameters of the application determine the optimum operating pressure. In some applications, liquid or gel may be used as the inflation medium. Introduction of the inflation medium is through a stem which is usually a flexible hose secured to an integrally molded fitting with a ferrule. A variety of fittings may be attached to the end of the hose. See Seal Master "101" for more information |
Technical Concerns
For an overview of parameters that determine the correct design please click on Seal Master "101" now. You may also go directly to the engineering section by clicking on "Engineering", or call our sales department at 1-800-477-8436. |
What are my other options?
For less demanding applications, there exists the option of using a non-reinforced inflatable seal. Non-reinforced inflatable seals are essentially rubber extrusions that are spliced together and have a valve cured into them. In applications requiring low pressure and low cycles, this approach may be considered. Generally speaking, non-reinforced inflatable seals do not provide the construction integrity and longevity that fabric reinforced, fully molded inflatable seals provide.
Depending on the application, a specialty engineered rubber product, i.e; a bag, compression seal, coupler, cover, diaphragm or gasket may be the solution for your application. Seal Master has the design expertise, and willingness to manufacture unique elastomeric products as required for your application. |
How do I install an inflatable seal?
Visit our Engineering Page
How do I know which seal is right for me?
Visit Seal Master "101" to learn more about which seal might fit you best.
How do I maintain my inflatable seal?
Visit our Engineering Page
How do I hold the seal in place?
Please click on "Inflatable Seal Retaining Systems" now. |
