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Encoder Sealing and Environmental Protection
For designs, it is almost impossible to incorporate bearings and sealed encoders, for there must be clearance to allow the bearing to slide over the shaft during encoder assembly. Even high-IP-rated bearings with rubber or plastic lip seals still can’t cover all rotational speeds, designs and mounting positions. All seals are subject to wear, aging and UV radiation degradation.
Encoder bearings can be open (least protection), shielded (moderate protection) or sealed (most protection). With all sealed encoders, shaft-up encoder orientation is least preferred. That means some hermetically sealed encoders can be installed in various directions, indefinitely submerged in liquids, or pressure washed to 12 bars and 100 liters/min. Labyrinth seals with reverse-lead spiral grooves prevent the entry of liquids and particulates into the housing. However, shaft seals can be a source of heat generation, so designers must verify limits with the manufacturer.