Patent ID: 6050570
Filing Date: 2000-04-18
Classification: F16C,F16J

Abstract:
In combination with first and second machine components between which an annular space exists, with the space containing a viscous lubricant in the form of grease, one of the machine components being capable of rotating relative to the other component about an axis of rotation, there being along the second machine component a sealing surface which lies generally parallel to the axis and beyond the annular space, a seal for isolating the annular space, said seal comprising: a case fitted to the first machine component and a flexible seal element attached to the case, the seal element including a contact lip having inside and outside beveled surfaces located oblique to the sealing surface and a band toward which the beveled surfaces converge, with the band being located along and against the sealing surface, the inside beveled surface being presented toward the annular space and the outside beveled surface being presented away from the annular space, the inside beveled surface being at a lesser angle to the sealing surface than the outside beveled surface, the seal element being formed primarily from an elastomer along which the outside beveled surface and an adjoining region of the band lie, the sealing element containing an insert formed from a material having a higher modulus of elasticity than the elastomer, with the inside beveled surface and an adjoining region of the band being on the insert, whereby differing moduli of elasticity exist along the band.