Labyrinthtiivisteet

Labyrinthtiivisteet, or labyrinth seals, are a type of non-contact seal used to prevent the ingress of contaminants and the egress of lubricants in rotating machinery. They function by creating a tortuous path that airborne particles and liquids must navigate to reach the bearing or other protected component. This path is typically formed by a series of precisely machined grooves or lands within the seal housing and on the rotating shaft.

The effectiveness of a labyrinthtiiviste relies on the intricate design of its internal geometry, which can include radial and axial grooves. The clearances between the rotating and stationary elements are critical; they are maintained without physical contact, thus minimizing friction and wear. This non-contact nature allows labyrinthtiivisteet to operate at high rotational speeds and temperatures, making them suitable for demanding industrial applications such as in pumps, turbines, and electric motors.

Contaminants entering the labyrinth path lose momentum due to centrifugal forces and changes in direction, settling out in the grooves rather than reaching the sensitive components. Similarly, lubricants are often slung off the rotating parts by centrifugal force within the labyrinth, preventing their excessive loss. While not completely impermeable, labyrinthtiivisteet offer a robust and durable sealing solution, particularly in environments where abrasive particles or significant lubrication leakage could be problematic for other seal types. Their maintenance requirements are minimal due to the absence of wear.