Why is Preventing Contamination Important?
Contamination is a leading cause of machine failure. Preventing contamination is crucial for the longevity of any machinery operating in dirty and unfriendly environments. Debris created in harsh environments can work its way into your actuator’s system and poorly affect machine performance. By selecting actuators with rod wipers, you can better prevent challenges caused by contamination.
Why Rod Wipers Are Essential
Rod wipers are critical in providing the reliable and efficient operation of pneumatic actuators in harsh environments. The primary function of the rod wiper is to prevent the accumulation of foreign particles such as dirt and dust. Without a rod wiper, foreign particles can contaminate the piston rod and further make their way into the cylinder, causing damage to the system, reducing cylinder performance, and causing leaks. These problems can lead to increased wear and tear on the machine, resulting in the need for repairs or replacements.
Key Benefits of Rod Wipers
- Prevent Damage: Debris such as dust, dirt, moisture and other foreign particles that can cause damage is removed from the rod surface by the rod wiper, increasing machine productivity.
- Extend Machine Life: Rod wipers help to protect the internal components of the actuator, delivering a smooth and efficient operation with reduced risk of failure or damage.
- Reduce Operational Costs: With fewer damaging contaminants entering the system, frequent maintenance and repairs are minimized, leading to cost savings.
Why Choose IMI Rod Wipers
IMI offers multiple pneumatic actuators with either a standard or optional rod wiper to help combat dirty and unfriendly environments. Since the standard rod wiper is separate from the rod seal, high-performance materials like urethane can be used. Urethane is ideal for 95% of applications, it provides aggressive wiping in all environments, is heavy-duty, and highly abrasion resistant. Additionally, the external lip design of these wipers prevents debris from entering the cylinder, providing optimal performance and longevity. If you are finding that contamination is hindering your machine’s efficiency, consider upgrading to an IMI actuator with a rod wiper to provide the solution you need. Could a rod wiper help improve your application? Browse our pneumatic actuators at with standard or optional rod wipers at https://www.bimba.com/en/pneumatic/actuators.