What are the types of linear guide seals?

●Standard linear guideway seals

The basic seals provided by most manufacturers of recirculating linear guides are single lip or double lip styles.These seals are in positive contact with the guide rail to prevent fine particles and liquids.

Double-lip seals provide two barriers between the external environment and the inner parts of the linear guide,and are typically used for very fine dust(such as ceramic or glass)and hazardous chemicals.Some manufacturers also offer three-lip seals as an optional accessory.

Standard end seals are usually single-lip or double-lip styles.

A metal scraper may be used in addition to standard lip seals when contamination includes large,coarse debris(e.g.metal or wood chips or welding slag)that may damage the lip seal.Metal scrapers leave a small gap between the seal and the rail,but they do a good job of wiping or scraping off larger debris from the rail.It is important to note that since metal scrapers are non-contact,they are generally not suitable for use on their own when other sealing options are not available.

Metal seals or scrapers are used in conjunction with standard seals to protect against larger contaminants,such as wood or metal debris.

Most recirculating linear rail designs also include an internal(sometimes called universal)seal that prevents any contaminants from passing through the front seal or possibly gathering in or around the rail mounting hole.

The internal seal is the last line of defense against contamination through the front seal.

When we think of linear guide seals,we usually think of front seals located at both ends of the bearing block.But most recirculating linear guide also include side seals(also known as longitudinal or lateral seals)as standard components.These prevent contaminants from entering from below along the sides of the bearing block,especially when the assembly is mounted side-on,vertically or upside-down.However,while side seals provide an extra layer of protection,front seals usually do most of the work in terms of keeping contaminants out.

Side seals are particularly useful when linear guides are mounted laterally, vertically or upside-down.

●Seals for special applications and environments

The standard seals for linear guide are made of thermoplastic material(TEEE),and most manufacturers offer versions made of fluorine rubber(FPM or FKM),such as viton,which are compatible with a variety of chemicals and lubricants.Fluorine rubber also has a wide operating temperature range,so it can be used in both high and low temperature environments.

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