The new generation SKF Speedi-Sleeve uses a proprietary stainless steel material and manufacturing process, resulting in an optimized seal counterface surface that minimizes wear on both sleeve and sealing lip. The proprietary material provides increased strength and excellent ductility properties of the sleeve. Imperceptible lubricant pockets enable the lubricant to reside on the sleeve and thereby prevent dry running of the sealing lip that otherwise can create excessive wear. The contact surface is wear resistant and machined to minimize directionality (0° ±0,05) with a finish of Ra 0,25 to 0,5 µm (10 to 20 µin.). This is, in fact, a better counterface surface than can often be achieved on a shaft.

SKF Speedi-Sleeve has a removable flange to simplify installation.The flange can most often be left intact, but in applications where the flange will interfere with other system components, it should be removed so as not to cause friction heat and wear debris. The flange should also be removed in applications where it may reduce the supply of lubricant to the seal. This would reduce the cooling effect of the lubricant, resulting in elevated underlip temperatures and premature aging of the seal material.