Spring Energized Seals for Critical Applications

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Spring energized seals (SES) from MDS are ideal for cryogenic and static applications, offering five times the force of V-springs through their coil spring design.

SES provide excellent chemical compatibility without elastomers and operate across a wider temperature range, resisting compression set. These spring energized seals, however, require open or two-piece gland designs and demand smoother surface finishes compared to elastomeric seals.

spring energized seal diagrams

How Spring Energized Seals Work

The SES is a high-performance sealing device engineered with PTFE or other advanced polymers and powered by a corrosion-resistant metal spring. Once seated in the gland, the compressed spring applies consistent force to the sealing surfaces, creating a reliable barrier that prevents the escape of gases or fluids. This resilient design compensates for seal wear, gland misalignment, or eccentricity, ensuring durability. 

At low pressure, the spring force maintains an effective seal, while at high pressure, the system pressure works in tandem with the spring to deliver an even tighter, more secure seal. SES are expertly machined from PTFE, filled PTFE, and other top-tier polymers, delivering precision and reliability for demanding applications. 

Features and Benefits of Spring Energized Seals

MDS offers over 100 jacket materials, two standard spring materials, and three standard spring designs to meet your needs. This variety of options allow design engineers latitude in developing the absolute best seal for the job.

Spring Energized Seals are Chemically Inert

  • Virtually unlimited chemical compatibility (except molten alkali metals, fluorine gas at high temperatures, and Chlorine Trifluoride CIF3)

  • Low-cost alternative to expensive perfluoroelastomers 

Low Friction Means Low Power Absorption & Torque Requirements

  • Smooth and consistent breakout and running friction 
  • Low power absorption and torque requirements 
  • Friction can be adjusted and controlled during design 
  • Can run dry or lubricated 

Spring Energized Seals Offer Wide Temperature & Pressure Ranges

  • -423 to 600°F, from cryogenic service to hot air or super-heated steam 
  • Vacuum to 60,000 psi, vacuum chambers to high pressure water jet cutters 

Spring Energized Seals for a Vast Variety of Applications

Spring energized seals are the perfect solution for a wide range of applications, such as:

  • Actuators
  • Aircraft Engines
  • Brake Systems
  • Chemical Pumps
  • Compressors
  • Cryo Coolers
  • Cryogenic Systems
  • Drones
  • Etching Chambers
  • Fire Suppression System
  • Food Processing Equipment
  • Fuel Controls
  • Gearboxes
  • Hot Air Couplings
  • Hydraulic Systems
  • Joints and Swivels
  • Liquid Chromatography Pumps
  • Liquid Filling Machines
  • Mechanical Seals
  • Oil Field Equipment
  • Oxygen Systems
  • Petrochemical Equipment
  • Plastic Extruders
  • Pumps
  • OD Couplings
  • Radars
  • Robot Joints
  • Torpedoes
  • Turbo Expanders
  • Underground Safety Valves
  • Vacuum Chambers
  • Valves