What is a rotating seal also known as?

A rotating seal is commonly referred to as a rotary seal. This type of seal is specifically designed to prevent leakage of fluids or gases between two components that are in relative motion, typically in rotational equipment such as pumps, shafts, or compressors.

Rotary seals work by maintaining contact with the rotating surface while effectively sealing against the stationary component. This design allows them to provide a reliable barrier against leakage while accommodating the movement of the machinery involved.

The term “dynamic seal” is also applicable, as it highlights the motion aspect, but "rotary seal" is the more specific term in this context. In contrast, static seals are used in applications where there is no relative movement, making them unsuitable for situations involving rotation. Pusher seals are a type of dynamic seal that incorporates a spring mechanism to maintain sealing pressure but do not specifically denote rotary functionality. Thus, "rotary seal" is the most accurate and widely used terminology for a rotating seal.