One of the most well-known rubber gasket alternatives, O-rings are widely used in various commercial and industrial applications due to their outstanding sealing capabilities.
By selecting the correct O-ring for a specific application, this will help to avoid seal failure or leaking. Here is a quick rundown of the factors you need to consider when choosing the perfect O-ring:
#1: Type of O-Ring Application
By familiarising yourself with the application, you will be able to identify which O-ring category to choose. O-rings can either be static or dynamic; and the material used to manufacture various O-rings will differ from one to the other. Operating environmental factors should also be considered:
- Vibrational movement
- Ozone attack
- High ultraviolet exposure
- Intermittent use
- Constant use
#2: Media to be Sealed
The features of rubber O-rings can vary depending on the material used – something worth considering is the fluid that needs to be contained. The resistance of elastomers will depend on the fluid they are exposed to and this will affect the O-ring’s tensile strength, elongation and other attributes.
#3: Environmental Parameters
Parameters such as temperature, pressure and time are just some of the things to consider when you are selecting your O-rings. Fluid exposure can affect the quality of the elastomers’ properties.
#4: O-Ring Size
Selecting the correct size is essential - a perfect fit will help to prevent any leaks that could further damage the application.
#5: Engineering Calculations
While most standard hardware dimensions have already tabulated calculations, using a manual or a software calculation (e.g. checking the O-ring’s percent squeeze, compression percent stretch and volume or void ratio) will assure you of the proper O-ring selection.
With the help of this guide, you should now be able to maximise your O-ring's sealing capacity! For quality O-rings and seals, Coruba offers a wide variety of standard and custom made rubber gaskets to suit any application.
