Oil Seal by Size: How to Choose the Right Fit for Your Machinery?

oil seal by size

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Using the wrong size oil seal can lead to oil leaks, equipment damage, and costly downtime. Are you struggling to match oil seals to your machinery?

Choosing the right oil seal size ensures proper shaft protection, optimal sealing, and long-term equipment performance. Here’s how to get it right every time.

One size doesn’t fit all. From industrial pumps to automotive gearboxes, the correct oil seal size depends on your shaft, housing, and operating conditions. In this guide, I’ll help you decode dimensions and avoid mismatches.

What Are the Standard Oil Seal Size Parameters?

Oil seals are defined by three key dimensions: ID (inner diameter), OD (outer diameter), and Width/Thickness. These determine fit and sealing effectiveness.

Correct size selection prevents:

  • Premature wear
  • Oil leakage
  • Misalignment and vibration

How to Choose Oil Seal by Size

As someone who’s worked with maintenance engineers and OEM clients for years, I’ve seen how one small error in sizing leads to massive failures. Here’s how I guide customers:

1. Understand the 3 Main Measurements

Term Definition How to Measure
ID Fits over the shaft Use a caliper or refer to shaft specs
OD Fits into the housing bore Measure housing or old seal’s outer edge
Width Axial thickness of the seal Use a digital caliper; refer to OEM drawing

2. Metric vs Inch Systems

Oil seals are available in both measurement systems.

  • Metric (e.g., 30×47×7 mm) – common in Asia, EU
  • Inch (e.g., 1.125” × 1.875” × 0.312”) – mostly US equipment
    Need help converting? Try our Cross Reference Chart

3. Use a Reference or Code

Many oil seals have part numbers like “TC 30×47×7” — which means:


How to Match the Right Oil Seal to Your Application?

Different industries require different types and fits. Here’s how I approach it:

Application Type Common Shaft Size Recommended Fit Material Choice
Hydraulic Pumps 20–80 mm Press fit, TC or SC NBR or FKM
Automotive Crankshafts 30–100 mm Tight tolerance FKM or silicone
Gearboxes & Motors 12–50 mm Slight interference NBR

Need custom sizing? We provide OEM-sized oil seals with no MOQ.


How to Measure If the Old Seal Is Damaged?

Even if the original oil seal is worn or torn, you can still determine its size:

  • Measure the shaft directly (for ID)
  • Use the housing bore (for OD)
  • Check groove depth or leftover width
  • Compare with standard oil seal types

Don’t guess — a 1 mm mistake can ruin the seal. Contact us if unsure, we’ll size-match it for you in 12 hours or less.


Conclusion

Getting the oil seal size right is the key to longer service life and zero leakage. Measure precisely, cross-check codes, and choose quality seals.

Call to action

Not sure which size fits your application? Let us help you find the perfect oil seal — fast, precise, and customizable.

  • Email: [email protected]
  • WhatsApp: +86 17622979498
    Send us your shaft or bore size — we’ll send back exact match options within 12 hours.



People Also Ask

1. What if I only know the shaft diameter?
You can still order by ID, but we’ll need the housing bore for full fit. Contact us for size confirmation.
2. Do you offer custom-size oil seals?
Yes. We support OEM & custom oil seal production with no minimum order.
3. Can I convert inch to mm easily?
Yes. 1 inch = 25.4 mm. Use our conversion chart for quick results.
4. What if the seal I need is not marked?
Measure the ID, OD, and thickness using a caliper and we’ll match it from our catalog.
5. What type of oil seal is best for motors?
Double lip TC or SC oil seals made of FKM are ideal for motor oil resistance and temperature stability.
6. Should the oil seal be tight on the shaft?
Yes, but not overly tight. It should rotate freely without leakage.
7. Can I reuse an old oil seal?
We don’t recommend it. Seals deform and lose elasticity after use.
8. What’s the difference between TC and TB oil seals?
TC has a rubber outer layer; TB has a metal case. TC is better for anti-corrosion and press fit applications.
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