Global industrial manufacturer and service provider SKF last November launched a new range of hydraulic seals to meet the demand for hydraulic cylinders that industry needs for improved performance.

In 2006, SKF acquired the Economos and Polyseal companies, allowing it to consolidate its product range.

“Both acquisitions have their unique range of product, but with some overlaps. The new range has been consolidated into one with what we believe to be the best-in-class selected out of the respective ranges,” states SKF South Africa platform manager Southern Africa André Weyers.

SKF can now supply a complete system solution, with all types of seals to meet cus-tomers’ demand for system solutions, he says.

“This complete range of hydraulic seals enables SKF to support our global original-equipment customers with a wider choice of solutions. Combined with the Seal Jet system for rapid production of machined hydraulic seals and our strength in problem-solving customised solutions, we can assist in the full life-cycle management of the customers’ hydraulic cylinder application,” says SKF industrial fluid system seal product manager Danny Zitting.

The Seal Jet system is a combination of semifinished material design packages, which include specialised tools designed especially for the machining of rotary shafts and hydraulic and static seals on an internally designed and manufactured computer numer- ically controlled machine, explains Weyers.

The launch introduces several new products in the range, such as the S1S polyurethane U-cup for heavy-duty rod sealing systems and three new styles of polyurethane piston seals.

“The S1S is designed for heavy-duty applications in the demanding earthmoving industry; its built-in characteristics ensure optimisation of customers’ equipment,” he adds.

Further, the company developed a new grade of SKF Ecopur polyurethane material in conjunction with the new products design.

“The SKF Ecopur is a thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer with excellent abrasion resistance, low compression set, high physical properties and tear strength,” says Weyers.

He adds that the hydraulic cylinders are compatible with heavy-duty applications in the demanding earthmoving industry.

“SKF remains at the forefront of technology and partners with leading original-equipment manufacturers, which understand the various challenging market demands,” states Weyers.

He adds that the process of undertaking research and development into these and other new products is ongoing.