Inflatable rubber seals are a common component in various applications. They are most commonly used in sealing doors, windows, hatches, and other access points on boats, airplanes and trains.
So if you’re a manufacturer looking to buy inflatable seals for your product, then you should learn more by reading below before making a purchase. We will also talk about the
common mistakes to avoid when purchasing these seals.
Things to Consider During Purchase
There are some considerations that you need to ensure that you obtain the best possible product to match your needs, such as:
- How you will use the product
- The environments the product will be used within
- Number of seals you need
- Reputation of the supplier
- Customer experience you are likely to have.
These are the critical factors you need to consider when searching for inflatable seals. Let us know about it in more detail.
- Proper Uses and Applications
You can use inflatable seals in various applications. It does not matter what your requirements are. Air and watertight seals with 2 surfaces are available in the market.
This makes them ideal for use in multiple industries, including marine and pharmaceutical use. There are various seal designs and components available that you can choose from.
The profile of a seal determines its sealing properties and sustainability for different applications. A seal is available in various designs, depending on the application service condition and the user preference.
- Custom-made Seals
If you need large order quantities or low scale production, then there are various stores with huge experience that can handle both small and big operations.
You can also get valves like threaded and push-fit valves with various air connector types and placements.
Threaded valves are used in petroleum industry for boiler and steam applications. The push fit valves are used in residential and commercial constructions for plumbing or water heating.
The seals are manufactured from specially developed silicone rubber.
- Existing Profile
As you develop a profile, it is then available for repeat production. This becomes a part of the collection of existing moulds.
There are many leading inflatable seals manufacturers in the USA who have various readily available seals. Some of them include:
- Castellated profiles
- Frog-leg profiles
- Channel fit profiles
- Stem or foot location profiles.
Discuss with a reliable manufacturer about the type of seals you need.
- Choose a Reliable Supplier
When searching for the perfect product, you may come across various manufacturers. Do not run for cheap options. Not every time you get good products at cheaper prices.
It is crucial to look for truly unique and custom inflatable seals. Choose a reliable manufacturer to ensure quality and a great customer experience.
As leading manufacturers of the seals, they should provide opportunities and possibilities that you will not find in other suppliers on the market.
Common Mistakes People Make When Buying Inflatable Seals
Let us know about the mistakes you should avoid when you’re buying these seals below:
- Improper Size
Choosing the incorrect size is one of the most common mistakes people make when using inflatable seals. If the seal is small, then it will not provide adequate sealing and will remain under tension constantly due to the push and pull. This shortens the lifespan of inflatable seals.
If the seal is too large, then it will not fit properly and may become prone to damage. So you should make sure the seal is sized correctly for the application.
Hence you should consider factors like the width of the gap, the pressure required to seal, and the expected range of motion.
Consult a sealing expert for the proper sizing.
- Wrong Material Selection
These seals are often made with various materials, which have specific properties. So, people often tend to select unsuitable material that leads to performance failure or unwanted safety hazards.
You should consider factors like temperature, chemical compatibility, and abrasion resistance when choosing the proper material.
For example, using an inflatable seal made of silicone to seal machines or devices that utilize oil or petroleum based substances will be inappropriate. That’s because silicone has poor resistance to these chemicals.
So, you should choose a more suitable material like nitrile rubber (NBR) or fluorocarbon (FKM) in this case. These contain superior resistance to oils and chemicals.
You can increase the longevity and performance of the seals by evaluating the specific requirements of each application and choosing the right material.
- Improper Installation
Incorrectly installed seals fail to adequately seal the desired gaps in boats, trains or wherever required. They also become prone to damage.
So you should consider factors like the seal’s orientation, pressure, and positioning before installing it.
For example, if the seal is installed with its inflation point facing away from the mating surface, then it may lead to uneven inflation and inadequate sealing.
You should seek assistance from inflatable seals manufacturers in the USA to avoid this issue.
- Overinflation or Underinflation
Inflating the seal too much or too little can cause various problems. Some of them include reduced ability to seal, premature wear and tear, and possible safety hazards.
For example, overinflating a seal can lead to too much stress on it. This leads to a shortened service life. Underinflating can result in insufficient contact with the mating surface and poor sealing performance.
So you should ensure that the seal is inflated to the correct pressure. You can do this by considering factors like the intended use, the size of the seal, and the required sealing performance.
- Poor Maintenance
If you do not take care of your seals, then you will face performance issues.
That’s why you have to regularly clean the seal and inspect it for signs of wear and tear. We also recommend replacing the seal as and when required.
For example, if you don’t clean the debris from the seal’s surface, it may cause abrasion or damage during inflation.
So, you should create a routine maintenance schedule and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations. This is how you can increase their longevity and reliability.
Bottom Line
Inflatable seals can provide amazing sealing performance in various applications. You should avoid the above mentioned mistakes and follow the best practices for installation, maintenance, and use.
That way, you will be able to increase their lifespan and enjoy their performance. Do remember to purchase these seals from a reputed inflatable seals manufacturer in the USA. Good luck!