Although O-rings are typically circular,
different shapes are used for various applications including squares,
X-shapes and others. O-Rings are produced using a variety of manufacturing
techniques like extrusion, compression molding, injection molding, transfer
molding or machining. Depending on the application, they can be made from a
plethora of materials: nitrile rubber, silicone, polyurethane, neoprene,
fluorocarbon as well as other elastomers. O-Ring design considers quality,
quantity, cost, application temperature, sealing pressure, chemical
compatibility, movement, action, lubrication and other requirements.
Transportation
In industries like passenger automotive, heavy duty trucking, and aerospace,
severe conditions call for high performance products. Chemical exposure,
extreme temperatures and vibration are all factors that affect elastomer
selection for O-Rings. Custom compounds have been produced to meet strict
OEM and Tier 1 specifications and are continually refined to adhere to
biofuel and emissions requirements.
Medical
In the medical field syringe, pump, filtration and connectors require
specialty FDA grade O-Rings.
Oil, Gas & Industrial
Valves, gas pumps, fittings, dispensers and storage tanks need sealing
solutions that can withstand extreme temperatures, noxious chemicals, and
high compression. Specialty compounds like peroxide and triazine-cured
perfluoroelastomers assure heat and chemical resistance.
Electronics
Semiconductor processing and dust protection in consumer electronics call
for O-Rings to be manufactured in clean environments. Particulate and
contaminant-free O-Rings are available in a wide range of compounds.
Food & Beverage
Specialty 3A sanitary, NSF-61 and water service O-Rings and seals are ideal
for the food processing, beverage dispensing and water filtration markets.
Advantages of O rings
They seal over a wide range of pressure, temperature and tolerance.
- Ease of service, no smearing or
retightening.
- No critical torque on tightening,
therefore unlikely to cause structural damage.
- O-rings normally require very
little room and are light in weight.
- In many cases an O-ring can be
reused, an advantage over non-elastic flat seals and crush-type gaskets.
- The duration of life in the
correct application corresponds to the normal aging period of the O-ring
material.
- O-ring failure is normally gradual
and easily identified.
- Where differing amounts of
compression effect the seal function (as with flat gaskets), an O-ring
is not effected because metal to metal contact is generally allowed for.
- They are cost-effective.