Global sealing technology expert James Walker has launched a new innovative version of its Walkersele rotary lip seal, following an in-depth research and development project in collaboration with wind turbine and bearing OEMs.
The new product, called Walkersele X-Gen, meets the challenges thrown up by the increasing size of turbine designs - maintaining effective sealing against deflected shafts or housings and increased offset, plus enhanced retention of sealing forces over the full circumference of the sealing face.
Walkersele X-Gen also addresses the issues created by the use of high performance greases for lubrication rather than oil, which brings a new dynamic to the operation of the bearing seal and an additional challenge for any sealing solution.
In cooperation with bearing and turbine OEMs James Walker has undertaken a comprehensive test programme covering all elements of rotary seal design. These include spring retention, lip loading, torque, friction, leakage and wear plus sealing capability at a variety of significant offsets. Testing was focused on protecting and extending the service life of critical bearing applications and drive mechanisms.
The result is a new innovative seal construction specifically configured to optimise sealing capability on large diameters where increased levels of offset from loaded bearings and out-of-round shafts and seal housings can create significant issues.
Having spent a decade in the fastener industry experiencing every facet – from steel mills, fastener manufacturers, wholesalers, distributors, as well as machinery builders and plating + coating companies, Claire has developed an in-depth knowledge of all things fasteners.
Alongside visiting numerous companies, exhibitions and conferences around the world, Claire has also interviewed high profile figures – focusing on key topics impacting the sector and making sure readers stay up to date with the latest developments within the industry.
