Full definition
An all-rubber axial lip seal that rotates with the shaft and seals against a stationary surface (bearing housing face, end cover, or washer) perpendicular to the shaft axis. Unlike radial lip seals that seal against the shaft circumference, V-ring seals seal against a flat face, which can be an unmachined surface (the V-ring lip conforms to surface irregularities). The characteristic V-shape in cross-section provides: a flexible sealing lip, a stretch-fit body that grips the shaft by its own elasticity (no adhesive or set screws needed), and centrifugal stiffening at high speeds (the lip opens outward at high RPM). Speed: up to 12,000 RPM depending on size. Temperature: -40 to +150°C (FKM available for higher). Materials: NBR (standard), FKM (high temperature), and silicone. V-ring seals excel as secondary (exclusion) seals protecting primary bearings from external contamination — they are installed outboard of the bearing to keep out dust, water, and particles. The seal does not contact the shaft bore, so it adds zero friction in the radial direction. Per manufacturer specifications (SKF, Freudenberg). Sizes: 4 mm to 600+ mm shaft diameter. Designation example: V-40A = 40 mm shaft, type A (standard). Brands: SKF (the originator and market leader — SKF V-Ring), Freudenberg, CR Seals.