Freudenberg Sealing Technologies, a global frontrunner in sophisticated sealing technology and electromobility applications, has unveiled its revolutionary high-performance material, “98 AU 30500,” which is set to challenge conventional PTFE solutions.
The material development experts at Freudenberg Sealing Technologies have achieved a significant breakthrough with “98 AU 30500.” This hydrolysis-resistant high-performance polyurethane surpasses traditional PTFE variants in delivering superior performance for mobile hydraulic sealing systems. Dr. Jürgen Hieber, Materials Development Manager at Freudenberg Sealing Technologies, explains, “PTFE materials offer high media resistance and a broad temperature range for hydraulic applications, coupled with low friction and reliability. However, our 98 AU 30500 material goes beyond that, offering exceptional wear resistance and media resistance.”
Thanks to meticulous material and geometry optimization, seals crafted from 98 AU 30500 exhibit low friction and minimal gap extrusion, resulting in an extended service life. This exceptional friction and sealing performance allows these seals to replace conventional PTFE seals in standard hydraulic operating conditions, offering functionality in temperature ranges from -25 degrees to +120 degrees.
One of the groundbreaking aspects of this high-performance material is its ability to enable previously unattainable low-friction and hydrodynamically optimized sealing geometries. This feature opens doors to new possibilities in hydraulic system design.
The cost-effectiveness of 98 AU 30500 is another notable advantage. “Its longer service life and reduced maintenance requirements translate to cost savings for users, along with increased efficiency in hydraulic systems, ultimately leading to enhanced performance,” remarks Martin Goerres, Manager of Engineering & Innovation at Freudenberg.
Freudenberg Sealing Technologies has already introduced the “OMK-PU 30500” piston seal in 17 different dimensions, marking a significant step in showcasing the material’s potential. This piston seal, composed of hydrolysis-resistant high-performance polyurethane with an O-ring contact element, serves as a compelling alternative to conventional piston seals with PTFE mechanical seals.
“The piston seal’s injection molding process ensures cost-effectiveness. It is interchangeable with seals designed for standard PTFE ISO installation spaces, requiring no recalibration after installation for dimension adjustment,” Goerres notes. The seal’s low friction and resilience against damage, even during assembly, make it an ideal choice for challenging environments. Additionally, it offers a substantial increase in tightness compared to PTFE seals.
While initially developed for mobile hydraulic applications in high-humidity regions within the construction equipment sector, the “98 AU 30500” material is drawing interest from a wide range of industries, including food and packaging. The demand for PTFE alternatives is anticipated to grow, signaling the material’s potential to redefine hydraulic sealing across various sectors.
Freudenberg Sealing Technologies continues to push boundaries in sealing technology, reaffirming its commitment to innovation and excellence in the global market.
