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Magnetic Fluid Rotary Seal – FAQ

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Q1: What is a magnetic fluid rotary seal?

A magnetic fluid rotary seal is a non-contact sealing device that utilizes ferrofluid retained by a magnetic field to form a vacuum-tight barrier. It is widely used in high-vacuum systems, semiconductor equipment, and clean environments.

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Q2: Can magnetic fluid rotary seals be used for water or liquid sealing?

No.

Magnetic fluid seals are only suitable for gas applications. Contact with liquids such as water will break down the magnetic structure, causing the seal to fail.

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Q3: What precautions should be taken during installation?
  1. For hollow-shaft models, ensure the inner O-ring has adequate vacuum grease. The shaft should have a lead-in chamfer of 3mm width and ≤20° angle.

  2. Recommended shaft finish: Ra 0.8 (machined), Ra 1.6 (polished).

  3. Do not strike or apply strong force to the seal – this can splash ferrofluid and cause leakage.

  4. Avoid misalignment or radial load during installation to prevent uneven magnetic distribution.

  5. Condensation must be avoided.

  6. Shelf life of ferrofluid is 5 months. Overdue fluid should be inspected by the supplier.

  7. Clean the device surface with lint-free cloth soaked in ethane only. Do not use alcohol, acetone, water, or oil near the sealing gap.

  8. Pressure test limits: ≤1.8 kgf/cm² (positive), ≤1.0 kgf/cm² (negative). Do not use corrosive gases.

  9. External dust rings provide limited short-term dust protection. For dusty environments, additional dust shields and regular cleaning are required. Suction pressure should be <1 kgf/cm².

  10. Water cooling requirements:

  • Flow rate: 1–3 L/min

  • Pressure: 0.2–0.3 MPa

  • Water type: Tap water, pure water, or deionized water

  • Temperature: Ambient


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Q4: Can it support high-speed rotation?

Yes. Supported RPM varies by model, with some models handling over 10,000 rpm. For extreme RPM, water-cooled or customized options are available.

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Q5: Is the seal maintenance-free?

Yes. Magnetic fluid rotary seals are designed for long-term, maintenance-free operation without re-lubrication or part replacement.

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Q6: Is customization available?

Yes. As a leading global ferrofluid manufacturer, shaft size, flange dimensions, mounting styles, and ferrofluid types can all be customized upon request. Contact Moretec engineers for technical support.

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Summary of Key Warnings
  • Do not strike, overload, or misalign the seal device.

  • Never allow ferrofluid to contact water, alcohol, or oil.

  • For dusty environments, external dust-proof design is required.

  • Ferrofluid shelf life is 5 months – inspect before use if expired.

  • Cooling water should be deionized, clean, and well-balanced in flow and pressure.

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