Find out where elastomer O-rings are most commonly used, and also why this type of seal is chosen above all others. In this article, we outline the benefits and applications of elastomer O-rings, as well as highlighting why you should make us your supplier of choice.
At zero or very low pressure, the rubber compound’s natural resiliency provides the seal. The seal’s performance can be improved by increasing the diametrical squeeze. However, this can have an adverse effect in higher-pressure dynamic sealing applications.
O-rings create a seal by blocking any potential leak path of a fluid between two closely spaced surfaces. They are typically installed in a machined groove in one of the surfaces to be sealed and, as the two surfaces are brought together and form a gland, they squeeze the cross-section of the O-ring.
This results in a deformation of the O-ring cross-section. The greater the squeeze, the larger the deformation. Due to the highly viscous, incompressible properties of elastomer materials, FFKM O-rings have the capacity to ‘remember’ their original shape over an extended timeframe.
O-rings are simple and therefore inexpensive, which goes a long way towards explaining their popularity in manufacturing. O-rings can withstand a large amount of pressure, so are used in a variety of applications where pressure loss or leaks are unacceptable.
TRP Polymer Solutions manufactures high performance O-rings in a range of durable, high specification materials, including Perfluoroelastomer (FFKM), Fluoroelastomer (FKM), Silicone (MQ/VMQ), Hydrogenated Nitrile (HNBR) and Fluorosilicone (FVMQ).
We are committed to customer care, which is why we offer rapid delivery. For existing tooling, delivery can be 2-3 working days, while new tooling may take up to 7 days, depending on the size of the product.
For more information about our entire range of elastomer O-rings, please contact us today by calling out expert team of advisers on 01432 268899.