Buying Seals and Gaskets Online: Procurement Checklist

• Buy online: for items with a listed, confirmed price on the shop. Products are being added to the online shop.
• Request a quote: for custom, bulk or unpriced items. Use request a quote.
• Technical review: when identification is unresolved or the duty is critical. Send dimensions and equipment details, or use Find My Seal.

1. What is it? Part type: O-ring, mechanical seal, rod seal, gasket, packing and so on.
2. Part number from the old part, the equipment manual or the original manufacturer.
3. Dimensions in a stated unit. See the guides on O-ring measuring, hydraulic seal measuring and mechanical seal identification.
4. Equipment make, model, serial number and where the part fits.
5. Medium being sealed and any cleaning chemicals.
6. Temperature and pressure including peaks.
7. Movement and speed: static, rotating or reciprocating.
8. Material preference or existing material, if known.
9. Quantity now and likely repeat demand.
10. Documents needed, such as material data sheets or certification, stated at enquiry stage.
11. Delivery or collection details. Delivery is quoted per order; see delivery and collection.

Many parts can be supplied as genuine or compatible replacements. You can enquire about genuine or compatible replacement parts for equipment from manufacturers such as Burgmann, John Crane, Chesterton, Grundfos, KSB, Flowserve, Trelleborg and others. State your preference at enquiry. Compatible parts are made to fit and perform similarly, but the supplier of each should be able to explain the differences in materials, tolerances and documentation. Neither option is automatically right for every duty.

When comparing offers, check that they are for the same dimensions, material, brand or origin, quantity, documentation and delivery basis. Price differences often hide material or quality differences. Confirm whether the price is a confirmed price on quotation and whether VAT is included.

• Ordering by nominal size without checking the actual dimensions.
• Ignoring the medium and temperature.
• Mixing metric and imperial sizes.
• Assuming similar-looking seals are interchangeable.
• Not stating that a part is for food, potable water or other regulated service.
• Leaving spares until the pump has already failed.

For regular demand, ask about trade accounts and bulk contract supply. Terms are agreed on application. Our inventory management and supply agreements service covers recurring stock arrangements.

• This checklist cannot make a selection decision for you; the buyer remains responsible for confirming suitability, with advice available from us.
• Online listings are being added, so some items must be quoted.
• Critical, high-risk or regulated duties (oxygen, hydrogen, aerospace, food-contact, pharmaceutical, potable water) need technical review and the correct certification documents.