Everything You Need to Know About Industrial O-Rings
We’ve previously explained the main differences between the terminology ‘gasket’ and ‘seal’, but let’s take a closer look at a specific type of gasket: the industrial O-ring. What is an industrial O-ring, how does it work, and what are its benefits for heavy duty machinery?
What is an industrial O-ring and how does it work?
Industrial O-rings are a type of mechanical gasket. Very little has changed since they were invented over 100 years ago, with their design and function remained largely unchanged since they first entered the market. O-rings are torus (doughnut) shaped and they work by creating a leak proof seal between two components. To ensure they meet quality standards, they are tested with hot compression tests in order to see how much heat and pressure they can safely withstand.
What are the benefits of O-rings?
There are many benefits to using industrial O-rings, including heat resistance, pressure resistance, excellent sealing properties, versatility and durability – all of the features you want in a mechanical gasket!
Sealing
As industrial O-rings are a type of gasket, their main benefit is their ability to form a very tight seal between two surfaces, such as in a hydraulic system, to prevent the leakage of hydraulic fluid and system failure. Under compression, the O-ring sits in a groove between the two surfaces or components that need to be sealed together.
Heat resistance
Industrial O-rings, such as those used in and around your heavy machinery’s engine, are able to withstand high extremes in temperature- up to 250°c depending on the elastomer. This makes them effective even in harsh environments.
Pressure resistance
Industrial O-rings can be used in high pressure environments that might be encountered in the aerospace or marine industries. Of course, this depends on their individual pressure ratings (determined by pressure testing) and whether the O-ring is able to avoid extrusion into the clearance.
Versatility
Industrial O-rings can be very versatile, and even bespoke options are available for specialised applications. The performance and properties of an industrial O-ring can be altered by changing the type of elastomer, the size of the O-ring, and the shape of it.
Durability
Since industrial O-rings are designed and manufactured to withstand extremes of pressure and temperature, they’re incredibly durable and therefore cost-effective too. A high-quality industrial O-ring minimises the risk of leakages, provided you complete regular maintenance checks and replace if signs of wear or erosion are visible.
Easy installation
Despite being such a crucial component within your machinery, industrial O-rings are surprisingly quick and easy to install and replace, requiring no tools or special training.
What are the applications of industrial O-rings?
Industrial O-rings are routinely used in both static and dynamic applications, usually in high pressure environments. Places where you might find an industrial O-ring include:
- Gearboxes
- Pumps
- Cylinders
- Hydraulics
As well as being a supplier of individual seals and gaskets, including industrial O-rings, here at Jaytrac we are able to build and assemble full or partial overhaul kits to manufacture a bespoke solution to your machinery’s specifications and project requirements.
To find out more about our O-rings and O-ring kits, including Viton and Neoprene for your machinery, contact our expert team today on +441604491133 or email sales@jaytrac.co.uk. Alternatively, fill out a contact form with details of your enquiry.