APPLICATION-SPECIFIC SEALING
Polyurethane Inflatable Seals
FOUNDRY AND MOULDING
Controlled contact around large frames
A polyurethane inflatable seal expands when air enters its hollow profile, bringing it into contact with the mating surface. In automatic green sand moulding equipment, the installation is assessed against machine movement, surface tolerances and groove geometry for repeated operating cycles.
Why consider polyurethane?
Polyurethane can be considered where flexibility and mechanical durability are assessed together. The compound and profile are selected according to the contact medium, temperature, wear conditions and cycle frequency. Operating pressure and temperature limits are established for each project.
Inflate, make contact, deflate
Controlled air supply
Air enters the hollow profile through its air connection. Supply and exhaust are coordinated with the machine sequence.
Surface contact
The profile expands towards the mating surface. The contact gap, surface tolerances and frame corners are assessed together for consistent contact.
Exhaust and movement
Air is exhausted before the equipment opens or moves. The seal and groove are checked in preparation for the next cycle.
Frame dimensions and air connections for your application
For wide rectangular, elongated rectangular or near-square frames, overall dimensions, profile section and corner geometry are specified together. Catalogue examples show a flat inner face, a gently convex outer face and an inward-facing air connection. The final geometry is assessed against the mounting groove.
| Information to provide | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Frame and groove dimensions | Define inner and outer dimensions, groove section, corner radii and available installation space. |
| Contact gap and movement | Assess expansion direction, surface tolerances and the opening and closing cycle. |
| Environment and air supply | Review actual seal temperature, contact medium, air pressure and exhaust arrangement together. |
| Drawing and existing seal photographs | Confirm connection position, existing installation and replacement requirements. |
Installation and care
Keep the mounting groove clean and install the seal without twisting it or straining the air connection. Initial operation and maintenance checks follow the machine manufacturer’s instructions. Cuts, wear, connection damage or uneven contact should be assessed before the next operating cycle.
