Keynote presenter

Mr Robert K. Flitney
 Consultant and Editor "Sealing Technology",
 CEng, MIMechE, UK.

"Advances in our understanding of elastomer dynamic seals"

Detailed numerical understanding of elastomer and plastic seals for dynamic applications is limited compared with the current knowledge of seals using ‘hard’ materials such as clearance and rotary mechanical face seals. Some of the key testing and research that has provided a thorough understanding to enable effective empirical development of elastomer seals over the last 50 years will be reviewed. Numerical analysis of rotary shaft lip seals has now become well established and this together with more recent analysis work on reciprocating seals will be compared with practical experience.