Mechanical seal and pump applications often need parts that resist wear, corrosion and dimensional change. Ceramic components can be used where metal parts wear too quickly or where electrical insulation, chemical stability or a very hard polished surface is required.
Material Property Comparison
| Material | Hardness | Fracture toughness | Flexural strength | Max use temperature | Thermal conductivity | Electrical insulation | Relative cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 95%-99% alumina (Al2O3) | 12-20 GPa | 3-5 MPa m^0.5 | 300-450 MPa | 1500-1700 C | 20-35 W/m K | Excellent | Low to medium |
| Y-TZP zirconia (ZrO2) | 11-13 GPa | 6-10 MPa m^0.5 | 800-1200 MPa | 900-1100 C | 2-3 W/m K | Good at room temperature | Medium to high |
| Silicon carbide (SiC) | 22-28 GPa | 3-4 MPa m^0.5 | 350-550 MPa | 1400-1650 C | 80-120 W/m K | Limited / semiconductive | High |
Typical values for comparison — request a datasheet for guaranteed specifications.
Common Ceramic Seal Components
- Ceramic seal rings, faces and round wear parts.
- Zirconia ceramic sleeves and bushings for shafts or guides.
- Alumina ceramic washers, spacers and insulating rings.
- Ceramic shafts, plungers, pins and pump-related wear parts.
Material Options
Alumina is often selected for cost-effective hardness, insulation and chemical resistance. Zirconia is often selected for higher toughness, polished sliding surfaces and reduced chipping risk in small precision parts. HERUN can help compare both options based on working conditions.
What Matters in Seal Parts
For mechanical seal components, surface finish, flatness, roundness and tolerance can be critical. Mark the sealing surface and any polished bore clearly on the drawing. If the component is replacing an existing part, a sample photo and measured dimensions are helpful.
Quotation Checklist
- Drawing or sample photo with OD, ID, thickness and length.
- Critical sealing, sliding or polished surfaces.
- Media, temperature, speed, pressure and corrosion condition.
- Required quantity, packaging and inspection requirements.
Related Pages
FAQ
Which ceramics are used for mechanical seal parts?
Alumina, zirconia and silicon carbide are common options. The choice depends on fluid, pressure, speed, temperature, wear behavior and whether the part is a seal face, ring or sleeve.
Is zirconia suitable for seal rings and sleeves?
Zirconia can be suitable when toughness, polished sliding contact and chipping resistance are important, especially for precision rings, sleeves and guide components.
Can HERUN make custom ceramic seal parts from drawings?
Yes. Send drawings, material request, surface finish, tolerance, quantity and application details so HERUN can review feasibility and quote.