Hydraulic cylinders operate in a variety of applications and environmental conditions, including exposure to dust, debris, or outside weather conditions. To prevent these contaminants from entering the cylinder assembly and hydraulic system, wiper seals (also known as scrapers or dust seals) are fitted on the external side of the cylinder head.

The outside static sealing of the wiper seal within the housing is also important to avoid moisture or particles from entering the outside of the wiper seal.