Mechanical Seal Materials: Which One Should You Use?

The choice of seal materials greatly impacts performance and durability. Common options include carbon (low friction), ceramic (corrosion-resistant), tungsten carbide (wear-resistant), and silicon carbide (excellent for abrasive media). Elastomers like EPDM, FKM, and PTFE are selected based on chemical compatibility. For example, silicon carbide is ideal for high-abrasion slurry pumps, while carbon vs. ceramic combinations suit water-based applications. Understanding your fluid’s properties ensures optimal material selection and longer seal life.