Context and Challenges
In the premium world of cycling, each detail is essential to optimise component performance and durability. Wheel hubs, in particular, are submitted to rigorous requirements conceming sealing and friction reduction. The challenge is to develop a seal which provides effective protection for the bearings against water and dust, whilst reducing friction to the minimum to ensure that performance is not compromised.
Solution provided by GEFICCA
To meet these requirements, GEFICCA designed and manufactured a rotating cylindrical seal equipped with an overmolded and bonded insert. This technical solution offers several key advantages:
- Optimal sealing: The use of high-performance materials and molding precision ensure an effective barrier against moisture and impurities.
- Reduced friction: The seal's design, combined with a strategic choice of polymers and elastomers, ensures minimal friction to avoid hindering cyclist performance.
- Perfect insert retention over time: The use of an effective adhesion promoter ensures optimal and durable fastening of the insert.
- Increased durability: The overmolded and bonded insert provides enhanced mechanical and chemical resistance, thus extending the seal's lifespan.
- Durable performance in extreme conditions: The development of a specific formula allows for the lowest possible friction while ensuring excellent abrasion resistance, even under severe operating conditions.
- Remarkable dimensional precision: Beyond rubber standards, precise control of dimensional tolerances ensures perfect sealing while maintaining minimal friction force.
Performance and validation
Extensive tests in the laboratory and under real conditions have confirmed the performance of this innovative seal. It has been subjected to intensive cycles of exposure to water, dust, and temperature variations, while maintaining extremely low friction.
Conclusion
This project illustrates GEFICCA's expertise in the design of high-precision sealing solutions. By combining material innovation and mastery of overmolding, we provide a technical solution adapted to the most demanding requirements. To learn more about our custom solutions, contact us!