A seal that moves only when needed
An inflatable seal is a hollow elastomer profile connected to a controlled air supply. In its resting state it stays inside the available envelope. Once the equipment is in position, air expands the profile until it contacts the mating surface.
Three common expansion directions
Axial profiles move across the groove opening. Radial-outward profiles expand toward an outside diameter, while radial-inward profiles close toward a shaft, drum or product. The equipment geometry determines which motion is useful.
The sequence protects the product
A robust cycle closes or positions the equipment first, inflates the seal second, releases air before movement and confirms retraction before opening. Controls and interlocks should reflect that sequence.
Why the groove is part of the seal
The profile depends on its groove for support and direction. A correct seal in the wrong groove can bulge, twist or fail to reach the intended surface. Treat profile, joint, valve, groove and air control as one assembly.