Following installation, it’s a good idea to double-check one last time that the proper functioning of the seal will not be impinged on by other parts of the assembly. Such impingement could lead to unplanned (and unwanted) friction, heat, and wear, all of which can contribute to premature seal failure.

You should also be cognizant of any treatments (such as painting or cleaning) to which the assembly in general (and the seal in particular) may be subjected. Unless proper precautions are taken to shield the seal, such treatments can impair its functionality and thus hasten its failure. For example, you should be careful to ensure that a painted assembly does not remain in the bake oven any longer than necessary to cure the paint; prolonged heat exposure can be very detrimental to the seal lip material.

Finally, the overall design of the assembly can hold hidden dangers that, if not addressed, can doom any shaft seal. For example, the assembly must provide adequate ventilation for the internal pressure within the seal area. Without proper ventilation, pressure can build to dangerous levels, even to the point of blowing the seal out of its housing. If a vent exists, make sure it is not clogged during painting. Clogged vents can cause excessive pressure to build up that could blow out the seal.

Table 51 can serve as a checklist to ensure that you have considered all of the important installation issues described in this section.

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