Transaxle output Shaft Seals: Improved Performance From New Designs and Compounds

Transaxle output shaft radial lip seals are critical components in front wheel drive cars. The dynamics of the shaft, due to design restrictions in the transaxle, are the most demanding of any automotive radial lip seal application. The materials and designs currently in use in these applications have been lacking in meeting some of the criteria necessary for low warranty performance. This paper documents investigations into two possible improvements in this technology: a plasticized ethylene acrylic compound and a hydrogenated nitrile compound, which, when combined with improved sealing lip designs, hold potential for warranty reductions in these applications.