Metal Bellows Seal
A sealing system must function at peak performance even when conditions are most demanding – high pressures or temperatures, extremely thick or chemically corrosive products, high-frequency vibrations, etc. Since metal bellows seals don't have a semi-dynamic sliding elastomer (like a conventional mechanical seal), there's no potential for seal hang-up or shaft/sleeve fretting. They're an ideal solution for such applications.
Seal Types
Type 100
Ideal for process pumps and compressors unsuited for elastomers, our Type 100 seals have a self-cleaning effect.
FEATURES
- Rotating bellows
- Metal bellows acts as both a spring and hermetic secondary seal
- Can be constructed from any weldable material
- Can be designed to be compatible wtih nearly any media
- For unstepped shafts
- Balanced
- Independent of direction of rotation
PARAMETERS
- Pressure: 375 psi [25 bar] max
- Temperature: -40 to 800 °F [-40 to 425 °C]
- Speed: 5000 fpm [25 m/s] max
- Typical Applications: gearboxes, fixed and rotary wing aircraft, process pumps, compressors, and other rotating equipment.
Type 110
For high-speed rotation, our Type 100 seals feature a stationary metal bellows and are ideal for applications where elastomers are undesired.
FEATURES
- Stationary bellows
- Metal bellows acts as both a spring and hermetic secondary seal
- Can be constructed from any weldable material
- Can be designed to be compatible with nearly any media
- For unstepped shafts
- Balanced
- Independent of direction of rotation
PARAMETERS
- Pressure: 375 psi [25 bar] max
- Temperature: -40 to 800°F [-40 to 425 °C]
- Speed: 5000 fpm [25 m/s] and beyond - max speed determined by application pressure-velocity (PV)
- Typical Applications: gearboxes, fixed and rotary wing aircraft, process pumps, compressors, and other rotating equipment
Custom solutions
While OEM seals suffice for some applications, many use cases require custom sealing solutions.
Whether you need a seal that meets specific performance requirements or can withstand extreme operating conditions, Ergoseal offers the in-house design and rigorous testing expertise to ensure your custom seal meets your precise specifications and performs in even the most demanding environments.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes metal bellows seals different from conventional mechanical seals?
Metal bellows seals operate without a semi-dynamic sliding elastomer, eliminating the risk of seal hang-up or shaft and sleeve fretting. This design allows the seal to maintain peak performance under high pressures, temperatures, vibrations, and corrosive conditions.
What types of metal bellows seals does Ergoseal offer?
Ergoseal provides Type 100 and Type 110 metal bellows seals. Type 100 is designed for process pumps and compressors that are unsuited for elastomers and includes a self-cleaning effect. Type 110 features a stationary metal bellows for high-speed rotation where elastomers are undesired.
What are the key features and specifications of metal bellows seals?
Metal bellows seals act as both a spring and a hermetic secondary seal. They can be constructed from any weldable material, are balanced, independent of rotation direction, and compatible with nearly any media. Operating parameters include pressures up to 375 psi (25 bar), temperatures from -40°F to 800°F (-40°C to 425°C), and speeds up to 5000 fpm (25 m/s).
Does Ergoseal design custom metal bellows seals?
Yes. Ergoseal engineers and manufactures custom metal bellows seals for applications with unique performance demands or extreme operating conditions. Each design is verified and tested in-house to ensure precision, reliability, and long-term durability.

