Small but powerful

When it comes to engineering innovation, size matters, often in ways you least expect. Ultra-compact, high-performance components play a key role in the world of robotics.

THE ROBOTIC INDUSTRY IS EVOLVING rapidly, with innovations pushing the boundaries of what machines can achieve. “We are seeing significant advances, with robots capable of performing complex tasks such as lifting heavy objects, manipulating objects with precision and even practicing parkour,” says Yoichi Higuchi, general manager of Trelleborg Sealing Solutions Japan. “By integrating advanced artificial intelligence and dynamic balancing technology, they are no longer limited to repetitive tasks.

Robots are taking on complex, highly skilled activities that we once thought only humans could perform. This is transforming industries such as construction, medicine and manufacturing.”

Joints with a small cross-section improve robot performance by reducing drag and enabling faster, more efficient movement. With cross sections as small as 3 mm, about the size of the tip of a shoelace or the head of a matchstick, these precision joints demonstrate how even the smallest parts can have a huge impact on advanced systems.

Compact, durable and high performance

Aware of these needs, Trelleborg Sealing Solutions introduced the latest generation of sealing technology: the Stefa® Mini Radial Shaft Seal family. This innovative range features three different designs adapted to advanced robotic applications: the Stefa® Mini, with a cross section of 5 mm; the ultra-compact Stefa® Nano, with 3 mm; and the highly robust Stefa® Cassette, with dimensions of 5 mm x 6.5 mm.

By allowing for narrower grooves, these seals reduce overall product size and weight. A smaller, lighter design translates into faster performance and greater efficiency, especially in mobile robotics, where weight reduction can extend battery life. Whether it’s a full-body joint seal for an articulated robotic arm or a motor housing component in motion control systems, Stefa® Mini radial shaft seals are designed to improve accuracy, durability and performance in robotic applications.

THE STEFA® MINI FAMILY OF RADIAL SHAFT SEALS

Stefa® Nano Radial Shaft Seal

With a thickness of only 3 mm, this gasket offers effective protection in demanding robotic applications.

No concessions

Stefa® Mini radial shaft seals may be small, but their performance is anything but. “Our seals are designed to offer superior leak protection, efficiency and durability,” explains Yoichi. “We were dedicated to creating a solution that would become indispensable in modern robotics.”

“Our in-house expertise in seal design is the key to achieving the perfect balance between compactness and high performance,” explains Inderjeet Singh, global product line manager for rotary seals. “These seals are engineered with advanced materials and precise geometry, allowing them to withstand harsh conditions; from high-speed rotations and oscillations to heavy loads and even corrosive environments, our seals excel where others fail.”

Developed in-house.

Through a rigorous design and development process, Trelleborg specialists created advanced sealing lip profiles with optimized circumferential radial loads, ensuring they can withstand extreme shaft acceleration and deceleration.

Using state-of-the-art finite element analysis (FEA) tools, these designs are refined and validated through testing, enabling them to deliver exceptional performance in real-world applications.

Material science experts validated advanced elastomer materials to meet demanding performance requirements.

Carefully designed for durability and compatibility, these materials ensure seamless integration with various oils and greases and perform reliably over a wide range of operating temperatures.

Demonstrating performance

“At Trelleborg, quality and performance are non-negotiable,” says Inderjeet. Stefa® Mini radial shaft seals have demonstrated exceptional performance and durability, successfully completing more than 5,000 hours of rigorous testing in harsh conditions. “Our test regimes not only met, but exceeded customer requirements, demonstrating the seals’ ability to perform reliably under high stress and poor lubrication conditions,” says Inderjeet. Tests included simulations of extreme conditions, such as interrupted fluid films and accelerated wear cycles, to evaluate the seals’ strength and longevity. “These seals offer optimum protection and durability, even in the most demanding applications,” adds Inderjeet. “They set a benchmark for reliability, ensuring top-tier performance in any operating environment.”

Supporting the robotics of the future

The introduction of Stefa® Mini radial shaft seals is part of Trelleborg’s commitment to shaping a more sustainable future for high-performance robotics. By integrating innovative materials, expert engineering and customer-focused support, Trelleborg aims to help robotics engineers and manufacturers deliver breakthrough technologies that drive automation forward.

STEFA® MINI RADIAL SHAFT SEALS – MAIN FEATURES

– Compact and lightweight design.
Offers significant space and weight savings, ideal for smaller and lighter robotic systems.

– Exceptional sealing performance.
Protects against oil and grease leaks while preventing contamination.

– Energy efficiency.
Low friction properties reduce wear and energy consumption.

– Extended maintenance intervals.
Exceptional durability ensures reduced downtime and increased operational efficiency.

– High flexibility for fast movements.
Designed for complex, oscillating and bidirectional movements with high acceleration.

– Trelleborg proprietary compounds.
They offer excellent chemical compatibility, with food grade and PFAS-free options to comply with regulations in various industries.

Inspection of Stefa® Mini radial shaft seals after rigorous performance testing.