What questions should I ask a seal manufacturer before ordering? | Insights by Polypac

Friday, October 24, 2025
Before placing an order with a seal manufacturer, it's crucial to ask specific questions to ensure product quality, compliance, and suitability for your application. This guide outlines key inquiries to make.

Essential Questions to Ask a Seal Manufacturer Before Ordering

When considering a seal manufacturer for your application, it's imperative to ask the right questions to ensure product quality, compliance, and suitability. Here are key inquiries to guide your decision-making process:

1. What Quality Control Processes Do You Have in Place?

Understanding the manufacturer's quality control measures is vital. Inquire about their inspection protocols, testing methods, and certifications to ensure the seals meet industry standards. For instance, manufacturers adhering to API Standard 682 demonstrate a commitment to quality in mechanical seals.

2. Can You Provide Information on Your Manufacturing Processes and Techniques?

Gain insight into the manufacturer's production methods, equipment used, and adherence to best practices. This transparency helps assess their capability to meet your specific requirements.

3. What Materials Are Used in Your Seals?

The choice of materials affects the seal's performance and durability. Ensure the manufacturer uses high-grade polymers and elastomers suitable for your application's conditions, such as FDA-approved materials for food and beverage industries.

4. How Do You Ensure Compliance with Industry Standards?

Confirm that the manufacturer complies with relevant industry standards, such as API Standard 682 for mechanical seals, to ensure product reliability and safety.

5. What Are Your Lead Times and Minimum Order Quantities?

Clarify production timelines and minimum order requirements to ensure they align with your project schedule and budget constraints.

6. How Do You Handle Custom Seal Designs?

If your application requires custom seals, discuss the manufacturer's capability to design and produce seals tailored to your specifications.

7. What Is Your Warranty and After-Sales Support?

Understand the manufacturer's warranty terms and the support available post-purchase to address any issues or concerns that may arise.

8. Can You Provide References or Case Studies?

Request references or case studies from previous clients to assess the manufacturer's reputation and the quality of their products.

By addressing these questions, you can make an informed decision when selecting a seal manufacturer that aligns with your project's needs and standards.

Polypac's Advantages

Polypac stands out in the seal manufacturing industry by offering:

  • High-Quality Materials: Utilizing top-grade polymers and elastomers to ensure durability and performance.

  • Compliance with Industry Standards: Adhering to standards like API Standard 682 to guarantee product reliability.

  • Custom Design Capabilities: Providing tailored seal solutions to meet specific application requirements.

  • Comprehensive Support: Offering robust warranty terms and responsive after-sales service.

These strengths make Polypac a reliable partner for your sealing needs.

References:

  • API Standard 682: Industry standard for end face mechanical seals

  • Top 10 Seal manufacturing in the World 2025

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FAQ
Products
What is the difference between a static seal and a dynamic seal?
A Static Seal is used between two surfaces that do not move relative to each other (e.g., pipe flanges, end caps). O-rings and gaskets are common static seals. A Dynamic Seal is used between surfaces that do move (e.g., piston and cylinder, rotating shaft). Rod seals, piston seals, and rotary shaft seals are designed for this purpose.
How important is surface finish on the metal parts that contact the seal?
Extremely important. A rough surface will abrade and wear out the seal quickly, causing leaks. A finish that is too smooth can prevent a lubricating film from forming. A typical recommended surface finish for dynamic applications is 0.2 to 0.8 μm (8-32 μin) Ra.
What is the difference between NBR and FKM materials?
NBR (Nitrile/Buna-N): A general-purpose, cost-effective material with excellent resistance to petroleum-based oils and fuels. It has a standard temperature range of -30°C to +100°C (-22°F to +212°F). FKM (Fluoroelastomer/Viton®): A premium material with excellent resistance to high temperatures (up to 200°C+), chemicals, and oils. It is used in more severe environments but is more expensive than NBR.
What is the purpose of the metal spring in a rotary shaft seal?
The garter spring in a shaft seal (e.g., FSKR, SPGO types) provides a constant radial force on the sealing lip. This ensures consistent contact with the rotating shaft, compensating for minor wear, eccentricity, and vibration to prevent lubricant leakage.
What does "AS568" mean?
AS568 is the Aerospace Standard that defines the dimensions for over 360 standard O-ring sizes. It is the most widely accepted sizing system in North America and globally. An AS568 number (e.g., AS568-214) specifies a precise inside diameter and cross-section.
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