This paper investigates a new sealing system for sliding applications in pneumatic cylinders based on non-contact sealing. By "reverse" assembling the common lip seal, the back of the seal is exposed to the supply pressure and the lip is turned towards the pressure discharge side. When exposed to sealing pressure the lip yields, resulting in reduced effective surface area with consequent less friction and wear, providing an air leakage path the flow rate of which depends on the radial stiffness

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... of the seal. The aim of this work is to develop a methodology for evaluating the performance of a non-conventional seal system design (air lubricated seal). A spring-energised commercial seal fitted to a piston has been tested to measure the air flow rate through it. More specifically, to evaluate the extent of the influence of cylinder bore diameter and machining tolerance. Preliminary results are presented and discussed. A major factor was to avoid, or at least reduce, frictional problems by using a non-conventional common lip seal assembly solution.