What type of seals are typically used with petroleum-based hydraulic fluids?

Buna-N seals are commonly used with petroleum-based hydraulic fluids due to their excellent resistance to petroleum oils and good overall performance in hydraulic applications. These seals are made from nitrile rubber, which provides a robust sealing capability against fluid leakage, as well as resistance to wear and aging. This makes Buna-N an ideal choice for hydraulic systems that operate with petroleum products, as it can withstand the temperature and pressure variations typically found in these applications.

In contrast, while other types of seals have their own specific advantages, they may not offer the same level of compatibility or performance in petroleum-based environments. For example, polyurethane seals are often chosen for their high wear resistance but may not be as effective with certain petroleum fluids as Buna-N. Silicone seals are excellent for extreme temperature conditions but may swell or degrade when exposed to oils. EPDM seals, while great for water and steam applications, typically have limited compatibility with petroleum-based fluids. Therefore, Buna-N seals are the preferred choice for ensuring reliability and efficiency in hydraulic systems using petroleum fluids.