Design and development

Over 45 years of sealing innovation

Innovation is one of our key values and competencies. It drives us to develop superior mechanical seals for our customers’ evolving needs. Unlike many suppliers, we don’t rely on standard designs. Instead, we invest in product innovation and engineer solutions you won’t get elsewhere.

We have a highly skilled team that not only analyzes and tests quality but also discovers new ways to optimize mechanical seal performance. We also collaborate with universities in Sweden and others worldwide to research material engineering, machine dynamics and tribology. These invaluable insights contribute to the ongoing development of our mechanical seals.

Design and development centres

Roplan has design and development centers in Sweden, China and the USA. Our facilities are equipped with several test rigs and state-of-the-art simulation technology.

Årsta, Sweden

Ningbo, China

Wisconsin, USA

Factors of seal design

Design excellence starts with Roplan

Roplan’s mechanical seals are designed to be irreplaceable. The quality, reliability and performance go unmatched, so much so that many of our customers have been with us for nearly four decades.

We adapt to changing technology and sectors, but one thing remains constant – how we design our mechanical seals.

These are the five factors that influence the quality of our designs.

Equipment type

We consider the design of your equipment to ensure the mechanical seal is optimized for cleanability and heat convection. Environmental conditions, like vibrations, are evaluated too.

Processed media

We review the viscosity, abrasiveness and other characteristics of your processed media that may impact the lubrication and leakage of the mechanical seal.

Application

Every application is treated differently, so we assess the pressure, temperature, and speed applied to see if they impact the liquid film and materials.

Materials

We carefully select robust materials to extend the life of your mechanical seal. Factors we consider are friction, wear, corrosion and temperature, to name a few.

Compliance

Reliability is not our only concern when designing. We also work towards legislation and industry standards relevant to our customers.

Our process

1. Discover

2. Design

3. Develop

4. Deliver

1. Discover

We first gain a deep understanding of your technical and commercial requirements. Our engineers will analyze previous instances of seal failure and factors influencing the design, including the application, processed media and equipment type.

2. Design

A delivery plan is set, and a dedicated team is assigned to your project. We will create concept designs for your mechanical sealing, ensuring all specifications are met. You’ll have time to review, and upon approval, our team will prepare for the verification process.

3. Develop

We will develop the final design into prototypes so verification can begin. Our engineers will use FE (Finite Element) and CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) calculations to assess the mechanical seal’s structural, thermal and flow dynamics. We will then verify these calculations in our test laboratories.

Using a test rig or your equipment, we will assess how the material and design respond under different conditions. These tests are performed thoroughly to ensure requirements are met. Our team will complete production reviews, create instructions and deliver a design release to facilitate the next stage of development.

4. Deliver

We will organize all relevant documentation and production equipment and supply your mechanical seal. We’ll also evaluate the tools and procedures used in production to ensure quality and cost control.

Meet the engineers