How to compare seal manufacturers for hydraulic systems? | Insights by Polypac

Friday, October 31, 2025
A comprehensive guide to evaluating seal manufacturers for hydraulic systems, covering key considerations, top manufacturers, and best practices for selection.

When selecting seals for hydraulic systems, it's crucial to choose a manufacturer that aligns with your specific requirements. Here are some key considerations to guide your decision:

Material Compatibility

Hydraulic seals are made from various materials, each offering distinct properties. Common materials include nitrile rubber (NBR), fluoroelastomer (FKM), and thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). For instance, NBR is known for its resistance to oils and fuels, making it suitable for automotive applications, while TPU offers superior abrasion resistance, ideal for heavy-duty machinery.

Seal Design and Application

The design of the seal—such as piston seals, rod seals, or rotary shaft seals—should match the specific application within the hydraulic system. For example, piston seals are designed to prevent fluid leakage in hydraulic cylinders, while rod seals are used to prevent contamination from entering the system.

Manufacturer Reputation and Experience

Opt for manufacturers with a proven track record in producing high-quality hydraulic seals. Companies like SKF have extensive experience and offer a range of seals tailored for various applications.

Customization Capabilities

Depending on your system's unique requirements, you may need custom seals. Manufacturers such as Wyatt Seal offer custom solutions to ensure a perfect fit for your application.

Quality Assurance and Certifications

Ensure the manufacturer adheres to international standards and certifications, such as ISO 9001, which indicates a commitment to quality management systems.

Cost Considerations

While cost is a factor, it should not compromise quality. Investing in high-quality seals can lead to longer service life and reduced maintenance costs in the long run.

Top Hydraulic Seal Manufacturers

Here are some reputable manufacturers known for their quality hydraulic seals:

ManufacturerNotable ProductsWebsite
SKFHydraulic seals for various applications(https://www.sealanddesign.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/SKF-Hydraulic-Seals.pdf)
Wyatt SealCustom hydraulic seals(https://www.wyattseal.com/products/hydraulic-seals)
HalliteHydraulic and pneumatic seals(https://www.sourcifychina.com/top-hydraulic-seal-manufacturer-compare/)

Conclusion

Selecting the right seal manufacturer is vital for the efficiency and longevity of your hydraulic system. By considering material compatibility, seal design, manufacturer reputation, customization capabilities, quality assurance, and cost, you can make an informed decision that best suits your needs.

Polypac's Advantages

Polypac offers a comprehensive range of high-quality hydraulic seals tailored to various applications. With a focus on durability and performance, Polypac ensures that each seal meets stringent quality standards, providing reliable solutions for your hydraulic systems.

By partnering with Polypac, you gain access to expert support, customized sealing solutions, and a commitment to excellence that enhances the reliability and efficiency of your hydraulic operations.

References

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FAQ
Products
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.
Why did my O-ring fail prematurely?
Common causes of O-ring failure include: Chemical Incompatibility: Swelling, softening, or cracking due to fluid exposure. Improper Sizing: Using an incorrect size leads to over-compression or inadequate sealing force. Abrasion: Wear and tear from rough surface finishes or contaminated fluid. Extrusion: The seal is forced into the gap between metal parts under high pressure. Installation Damage: Nicks, cuts, or twists during assembly.
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.
How do I choose the right material for my sealing application?
Material selection depends on four key factors: Media: What fluid or gas will the seal contact? (e.g., petroleum oil, water, chemicals, steam) Temperature: What is the minimum and maximum operating temperature? Pressure: What is the system's operating pressure? Are there pressure spikes? Application: Is it a static, dynamic, or rotary seal? Example: NBR (Buna-N) is excellent for standard hydraulic oil, while FKM (Viton®) is needed for high temperatures or aggressive chemicals.
Can I reuse a seal?
We strongly recommend never reusing seals. Once compressed and used, a seal takes a "set" and its elastic properties are degraded. Reusing it almost always results in a leak. Always install a new seal during any maintenance or repair.
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O-Ring Assortment Kit - 500+Pcs NBR Buna-N Seals in AS568 Sizes

This comprehensive O-ring kit contains the most commonly used sizes and durometers for general maintenance and repair.

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SPGA Type Rotary Shaft Seal - Spring-Energized PTFE with O-Ring

The SPGA is a premium spring-energized rotary shaft seal designed for the most demanding applications. 

SPGA Type Rotary Shaft Seal - Spring-Energized PTFE with O-Ring
FSXL Type Oil Seal - FKM Double-Lip Rotary Shaft Seal

The FSXL is a high-performance, double-lipped rotary shaft seal designed for demanding applications.  

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