Oil lip seals play a significant role in several industrial applications to avoid intermixing fluids and prevent contaminants and moisture from affecting the bearings. With such a vital role to play, it is essential to choose the right material for these seals. The choice of the material will depend on factors like the type of fluid being sealed, operating temperature, pressure, and compatibility with the operating environment. The following list of materials is typical for making oil lip seals:

ERIKS type M (type B according to the DIN standard) has a single metal casing and rubber sealing lip. Since the casing is made of metal, it must be fitted in a well-finished, undamaged groove. Large volumes of oil seals with metal casings are often cheaper, which is why they are often used as original equipment in machines. However, if an oil seal has to be replaced, types with a rubber exterior (type R or RST) are easier to fit. Type MST is similar to M and commonly used. The difference is the dust lip in the MST oil seal that prevents dust and dirt reaching the sealing lip, and extends its service life in dusty environments.