Inflatable seals are the blind choice for users in critical applications due to their ability to offer 100% leak-proof sealing. Let alone a spec of dust, inflatable seals do not allow even an air particle to leak from or into the applications. In addition, this property is offered in the most extreme conditions, from sealing in the depths of the sea bed, to securing satellite doors.

While regular seals can function effectively if the sealing surface is even and smooth, inflatable seals come with no such demands. The inflation mechanism allows the inflatable seal to tightly secure all available gaps against the striking surface. In case the sealing surface is not even, it could be that the inflatable seal expands slightly more from a particular point.

The compression set indicates the ability of the seal to return to its original size. Over time, regular seals start showing issues due to poor compression set. In the case of inflatable seals, however, the compression set becomes a redundant factor. The inflation and deflation mechanism overcome this problem from the very root.

Differential pressure is the difference between the internal pressure of a system/machine and the external pressure of the atmosphere (sea, space, etc.) in which the system is operating. Regular seals cannot perform to their fullest when the differential pressure is high, thus resulting in leakage. Inflatable seals on the other hand function efficiently i.e. ensure zero leakage, in the face of high differential pressures, which at times may be as high as 20 Bar, such as in the case of deep-sea oil rigs, petroleum extraction, and satellite applications, to name a few.

Inflatable seals find a wide application in industries having automated jobs with high levels of precision. A good example would be doctor blades used in the paper industry. Inflatable seals are used in doctor blades. The pressure of the inflatable seal can be controlled to determine the speed and sharpness of the blade cutting the paper. Certain braking applications also rely heavily on inflatable seals for the same purpose.

Finally, taking all the above-mentioned points into consideration, it can be safely concluded that compared to regular seals, inflatable seals have a better operational seal life over time, especially in extreme conditions i.e. in applications involving extremes of temperatures, pressure differentials, harsh conditions, and stringent regulations.