DP Seals develops self-lubricating seal for Eurotaps

ERJ staff report (DS)

Poole, UK, -- DP Seals, a UK supplier of precision custom rubber seals and mouldings, has developed a novel self-lubricating seal for Eurotaps Pressatap timed-delay tap inserts. A fluorinated additive to the custom EPDM moulding helps ensure the tap insert works every time over a very long period.

Eurotaps has developed an innovative range of tap inserts for public places designed to reduce water wastage significantly. Suitable for retrofit to most taps, the three insert types include straight on/off, timed delay and a special timed delay that only releases water once the tap is depressed and released, making it ideal for schools. Fundamental to efficient and effective long-term operations is the unit¹s rubber seal.

Eurotaps machined these seals from solid EPDM rod but experienced variable performance due to inconsistencies within the rod material and insufficient tolerance control; they approached DP Seals.

DP Seals has developed a tool for the seal, eliminating the tolerance problems. They then created a special blend of EPDM incorporating a new fluorinated polymer additive that lowers the coefficient of friction by controlled migration to the moulding surface, reducing squeak and improving slide over metal. Interestingly, when blended with EPDM, the additive also improves water repellency, an ideal benefit in this application.

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Press release from D P Seals