A Smalley Laminar Seal Retaining Ring is a metallic labyrinth seal consisting of multiple rings in a groove. To seal an assembly from contamination while withstanding high temperatures and corrosive environments, Laminar rings are produced from metal, not rubber, neoprene, or other non-metallic materials. The arrangement of the rings and the specific orientation of the rings are dictated by the application and the severity of the environment. Numerous configurations are available; standard sizes from 15 mm to 1300 mm.
Advantages of Laminar Sealing Rings
- No friction with other rotating components and are ideal for high speed applications
- Prevent dirt and splash water from contaminating components
- When used in conjunction with other seals, Laminar Seals provide a primary seal against severe contamination, before the contaminants come in contact with the secondary seal
- Sets of multiple rings provide an efficient Labyrinth seal
- Rings may be produced from a wide variety of alloys to withstand more severe conditions including higher temperatures and corrosive environments
- As a metallic mechanical seal they can outperform rubber seals in durability and life expectancy
- The change from rubber to metal reduces the need for frequent seal replacement
