Under standard industrial storage conditions, the typical shelf life of a skeleton oil seal is 3–5 years. To maintain sealing performance, the seals must be stored under controlled temperature, humidity, light exposure, ozone level, mechanical stress, and chemical environment.
Why the Shelf Life Is 3–5 Years
Technical Explanation: Rubber Aging Mechanisms
Skeleton oil seals are made of NBR, FKM, ACM rubber plus a metal frame. Rubber naturally ages due to:
Oxidation: oxygen breaks polymer chains, causing hardening
Ozone cracking: ozone creates micro‑cracks on static rubber surfaces
Thermal aging: higher temperatures accelerate molecular degradation
UV exposure: ultraviolet light accelerates hardening
Compression set: long-term deformation reduces sealing force
These mechanisms define the practical storage life of rubber-based seals.
Essential Storage Conditions for Skeleton Oil Seals
Temperature: 15–25°C
Humidity: 40–70% RH
Light: No direct sunlight or UV exposure
Ozone: Keep away from motors, welding equipment, or ozone sources
Pressure: Avoid stacking or deforming the sealing lip
Packaging: Keep original packaging sealed
Chemicals: No contact with solvents, oils, acids, or alkaline vapors
DEDE Seal Recommendations
To improve inventory reliability, you may implement annual inspection for hardness, elasticity, and surface condition. Create material-specific storage rules for NBR, FKM, ACM. Re-test any oil seal stored for more than 3 years before installation
