Optimise your maintenance operations with the HLB process: quick repair without dismantling

Our HLB (Hot Layer Bonding) process is used to replace seals on all types of application, whatever your line of business.

The HLB process offers an effective quick repair solution to stop leaks without having to completely dismantle the equipment. By avoiding the need to dismantle the mechanical parts surrounding the seals, you save both time and maintenance costs.

Increasingly popular with our customers, the HLB process stands out for its simplicity and efficiency. But how exactly does it work? And what are its advantages over other available jointing techniques?

1. What does the HLB on-site jointing process involve?

Through the HLB process, the joints - manufactured in the workshop by PXL SEALS - can be jointed end-to-end directly on site using some added material.

 

The two ends of the component are placed against each other by inserting a non-vulcanised pellet of elastomer of identical quality to the already vulcanised product.

This process avoids the presence of hard spots (no additives other than the elastomer) and the mechanical properties are significantly improved in comparison with cold bonding.

The HLB portable press is a tool specially designed by PXL SEALS for use in the field.

2. For which applications?

With the HLB process a large number of seal profiles can be hot-jointed: extruded seals supplied to length (O-rings, quad-rings, U seals, V-rings, etc.) or even profiles moulded and closed to a diameter that cannot be installed as a single piece because of mechanical constraints and limited available space where the mechanism cannot be dismantled.

• Conditions for using the jointing process on an HLB site

The only constraint on the use of this process is the diameter of the seal, which must be large enough for it to be jointed. The process can generally be applied on seals with a diameter of 300 mm upwards with possible adjustments depending on the specifics of the project, such as the cross-section of the joint and the space available around the bonding area.

The HLB process can be used on all applications using elastomer seals (NBR, HNBR, EPDM, CR, etc.). The flexibility of the process means that seals with different diameters can be jointed end-to-end using the HLB press, subject to prior technical validation.

This ability to adapt to the specific needs of each installation makes the HLB process particularly versatile.

3. What are the advantages of HLB jointing?

• Increased resistance:

The HLB process stands out for its robustness. Unlike cold bonding, which uses glue that can degrade over time or under the effect of fluids, the HLB process relies solely on the elastomer, ensuring greater tensile strength and eliminating the risk of breakage.

• Durable:

Another major advantage of the HLB process is its durability. The elastomer used to create the joint is identical to that used for the seal, ensuring perfect compatibility with the fluids in contact with it.

This considerably reduces the risk of deterioration of the joints over time, offering a reliable and durable solution for your installations.

• Responsive and practical:

The HLB process also enables optimised stock management. Seals can be stored either closed to a diameter or in lengths, then jointed on location as required.

This flexibility makes it possible to respond quickly to unforeseen circumstances and maintenance requests without operations being delayed.

4. Training and installation of joints by your own teams

The HLB process does not necessarily require the direct involvement of PXL SEALS teams. We have designed the process so that it can also be used by your own teams after appropriate training.

• Training:

Training in the use of the HLB press is easy and accessible, even for operators with no previous experience in this field.

Our qualified trainers will help you to master every stage of the process, from preparing the seal to making the joint.

• Operational independence:

Once trained, your teams can make the joints themselves on site, without always having to call in our technicians.

This independence means that you can reduce response times, reduce the travel costs of our teams and respond immediately to maintenance needs. This is particularly advantageous for critical installations or in environments where downtime must be kept to a minimum.

• Technical assistance:

PXL SEALS is available to provide ongoing technical support if necessary. Whether for application-specific advice or one-off tasks, we make sure your team has all the support it needs to make the most of HLB technology.

5. Comparison with other on-site jointing processes

PXL SEALS offers several on-site jointing processes to meet the specific needs of each project:

• MD Way®: With this on-site moulding process, strategic or vital joints can be produced directly on site. This is ideal for configurations requiring maximum precision.
  
  However, it is more expensive and complex to carry out than the HLB process.
  
   


• Cold bonding: Cold bonding is a simpler but less resistant method, suitable for applications where mechanical stresses are lower (static assemblies) and where the installation can be easily dismantled and replaced.
  
  However, this process involves an increased risk of deterioration over time, particularly due to the use of glue.

The HLB process has the following advantages over these other methods:

• No hard spot: Unlike cold bonding, HLB jointing does not introduce any hard spots into the seal, ensuring optimum flexibility and elasticity.


• Savings: HLB is less expensive than the MD Way® on-site moulding process and offers an excellent compromise between cost and performance.


• Versatility: The HLB process makes it possible to join smaller diameters end to end than with MD Way, offering greater flexibility for various types of projects.


• Easy to carry out: The HLB process is easier to use than MD Way and your teams will be able to make the joints after a quick training session.

Find out more about the various on-site jointing processes offered by PXL SEALS.

To sum up, the HLB on-site jointing process provides an efficient, flexible and cost-effective solution for on-site maintenance operations, while maximising responsiveness and increasing the durability of the joints.

Whether you opt for the involvement of our experts or team training, PXL SEALS is committed to providing you with the tools and skills you need to optimise your on-site jointing processes.

Contact us for more information

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