What Products Do We Stock for the Railway Industry?

Sealing solutions for the railroad industry play a critical role in ensuring the safe and efficient operation of railway systems, trains, and infrastructure. These sealing products are designed to withstand the unique challenges posed by the railway environment, including exposure to extreme weather conditions, vibration, mechanical stress, and contaminants.

In addition to standard sealing products such as O-rings, gaskets, and lip seals, we provide a wide variety of specialized seals and materials tailored to the unique requirements of the railroad industry, such as high temperature resistance, low friction, and compatibility with lubricants and fuels. These sealing solutions are subjected to rigorous testing and certification to ensure compliance with industry standards, regulations, and safety requirements, contributing to the reliability, performance, and safety of railway operations.

Common Sealing Applications in the Railroad Industry

1. Bearings and Axles: Seals are used to protect bearings and axles from dirt, water, and debris ingress, minimizing wear and extending component lifespan. They also help retain lubricants and prevent leakage.
2. Braking Systems: Seals are used in braking systems to maintain hydraulic or pneumatic pressure, ensuring reliable and responsive braking performance while preventing fluid leakage.
3. Doors and Windows: Seals around doors and windows in passenger cars and locomotives help maintain interior comfort by preventing drafts, noise, and water ingress. They also contribute to energy efficiency and passenger safety.
4. Electrical Systems: Seals are utilized in electrical enclosures, connectors, and cable glands to protect wiring, electronics, and sensitive components from moisture, dust, and other environmental hazards, ensuring reliable operation and safety.
5. HVAC System: Seals are integrated into heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems to optimize thermal insulation, control airflow, and prevent the infiltration of outside air, dust, and pollutants into passenger compartments.
6. Suspension Components: Seals are installed in suspension systems to retain lubricants, prevent contamination, and minimize friction and wear between moving components, enhancing ride quality and reducing maintenance requirements.
7. Track Joints and Switches: Seals are used in track joints, switches, and crossings to prevent the ingress of water, debris, and foreign objects, minimizing track damage, corrosion, and derailment risks.
8. Fluid Systems: Seals are essential for maintaining the integrity of fluid systems, including fuel, hydraulic, and coolant systems, by preventing leaks, ensuring efficient fluid transfer, and minimizing environmental impact.

Common Types of Seals Used in the Railroad Industry

In the railway industry, a variety of gaskets and seals are used to prevent fluid or air leaks across different applications. Flat gaskets serve to seal flat surfaces like flange connections and covers. For high-pressure scenarios, spiral wound gaskets, consisting of a layer of metal wound with a soft sealing material, are favored. Our compressed non-asbestos gaskets, crafted from a blend of fibers and elastomers, are used in diverse applications including cylinder and head exhaust manifold gaskets.

Silicone gaskets are valued for their resistance to heat, cold, and chemicals, making them essential in high-temperature rail applications. RTV silicone sealants are utilized to seal joints and seams, offering flexibility and vibration resistance. O-rings seal rotating and reciprocating parts, preventing fluid leaks and safeguarding against contaminants. The choice of gasket or sealer is dictated by the specific needs of the application at hand.