Elastic seals with dynamic lips and related methods

摘要

Seal assemblies and methods that include a seal lip that comprises an extended portion with generally constant cross-sectional width for low and generally constant friction during wear are described. The seal lip is loaded against a dynamic member by the aid of a spring energizer. The extended portion of the seal lip maintains constant torque resistance during movement of the dynamic member.

主权项

1. A seal assembly comprising:
a sealing component and a spring energizer comprising a plurality of coils, the sealing component and the spring energizer each comprising a bore that align; the sealing component comprising an inside flange with a seal lip and a groove having a V-bottom in which the spring energizer is located; the seal lip comprising an extended portion that extends in a direction of the bore; the extended portion for sealing against a dynamic member has a generally constant cross-sectional width to within 23% of a maximum width that wears during use to produce a generally constant surface friction when worn; and wherein the plurality of coils contact two tapered surfaces of the V-bottom.