PTFE rotary shaft seals were first introduced in the early 1970’s as crankshaft seals for diesel engines. Crankshaft seals were traditionally a difficult application for rubber seals due to a combination of speed, temperature and vibration. Since then many more applications have replaced rubber seals with PTFE seals as the benefits outweigh the initial extra cost.
The main reasons why PTFE seals are becoming more widely used is that they allow machinery to run faster, hotter and more efficient for longer. The low friction increases efficiency, and the low wear increase seal life far beyond what can be achieved with conventional rubber seal. PTFE seals also allow manufacturers to offer extended maintenance periods and extended warranties.
