Sealing Systems
Sealing systems are required to keep the lubricant inside the joint and to prevent dirt and moisture or any other contaminating substance from getting into the joint. Accordingly they have to withstand chemical, physical, mechanical and thermal damage. In the past most sealing systems were made from rubber, however, today thermoplastic materials (TPE) are increasingly used. They offer significantly improved tear propagation strength, abrasion resistance, impact behaviour and grease compatibility. Depending on the specific application a clamp made from galvanised steel, stainless steel or aluminium fixes the sealing system safely to the interconnecting shaft and the individual joint.
In addition to the performance requirements for today’s vehicles the available installation space becomes more and more restricted especially for CVJ sealing systems.
Sealing systems for fixed joints
These sealing systems need to work at angles up to 50 degrees or more and continuous ambient temperatures from -40°C up to 100°C. Today the majority of sealing systems for fixed joints are already manufactured from thermoplastic materials.
Sealing systems for plunging joints
These sealing systems need to work at angles up to 31 degrees allowing a plunge of up to 60mm at continuous ambient temperatures from -40°C up to 140°C and peak temperatures of up to 160°C. Since the capability of rubber materials is restricted to a permanent temperature of 125°C, GKN Driveline is offering TPE as the preferred solution. Most car manufacturers have validated this change and benefit from the product performance related to handling, service and lifetime.
Sealing Systems for rear fixed and plunging joints
These innovative products are working at limited articulation of up to 18° on fixed or plunge joints in rear sideshafts. The maximum plunge can be up to 45mm. This compact system offers significant improvements for packaging compared to conventional CVJ sealing systems and therefore offers a reduction of grease and system weight. The system allows highest performance due to the TPE materials used.
