Double acting piston seal, metric T58, 175 x 200 x 38 mm, Hallite.

The 58 type double acting piston seal combines the 56 type seal with bearing rings to give a very robust heavy duty seal assembly for split pistons. It enables the designer to use large clearances and, with the integral bearing rings, to restrict the piston length. The assembly comprises a seal and two L shaped bearings. The centre of the seal is rubber which is bonded to two 'U' section bases of rubberised fabric, and is compressed by the housing to obtain an effective low pressure seal. When the pressure increases the rubber energises the 'U' section and deforms it to the housing, increasingthe sealing area and improving the seal. Rubberised fabric is used to protect the rubber, because it has strength and durability which combines with its ability to retain lubricant to help keep friction low and reduce wear. Supporting the seal at either end is a polyacetal bearing proportioned to react to the pressure on the seal to prevent extrusion damage, and support the piston in its side load.