Seals are helpful in preventing leaks, in addition to a number of other advantages. An O-ring is an especially helpful sealant as it is effective in preventing the loss of fluid or gas. Below you will find the advantages of an O-ring.

What is an O-Ring?

An O-ring is a donut-shaped rink that is often from an elastomer. An elastomer is a rubbery material made of long chain-like molecules. This allows it to recover to its original shape after being stretched. O-rings are made from other materials as well, including PTFE, other thermoplastic materials, and metals.

Primarily used for sealing, O-rings help prevent the loss of fluid or gas. It is composed of both an elastomer O-ring and a gland. An O-ring is a circular cross-section rink molded from rubber and the gland contains and supports the O-ring. O-rings can be used in a number of applications. Some applications include:

• The pulp and paper industry
• Pipe joints
• HVAC
• Hydraulic seals
• And pharmaceutical and medical equipment

Advantages of an O-Ring

When considering the sealants, it’s important to find the one that is right for your unique project. Consider the following advantages of O-rings to determine if they are the right choice.

Versatile:

Among sealants, O-rings are versatile due to their ability to withstand a range of different pressure and temperatures. The tolerance and versatility of an O-ring makes them an effective and reliable option for any project.

Ease of Service:

The low maintenance nature of O-rings makes them ideal for a vast majority of applications. In fact, O-rings don’t require smearing or tightening. Without the need for critical torque on tightening, O-rings are unlikely to cause structural damage. The fact that O-rings don’t require special instruments or tools to operate effectively is an added benefit.

Small and Lightweight:

O-rings have a simple structure and design. They are small, lightweight, and easy to use. The simplicity of their structure makes them easy to both install and replace.

Reusable:

A major advantage of O-rings over other seals is that it can be reused in many cases. Because issues with O-rings are easily identifiable, they can easily be reused without the fear of an unexpected malfunction.

Longevity:

Depending on the project, material, and how you care for the seal, O-rings can last years to decades. This is especially beneficial as O-rings not only operate effectively, but they last.

Easily Identifiable Issues:

Due to the importance of sealants, issues with O-rings can be major. However, issues with O-rings are easily identifiable making them a safe and effective option. Addressing issues with O-rings is also fairly simple as they don’t require a lot of special tools and aren’t overly complicated in terms of their shape and function.

Cost-Effective:

O-rings are a cost-effective solution as they are both long lasting and durable. Depending on the use and type of O-ring they can last years to decades if properly taken care of. This is because the materials used for O-rings are the most accessible and least expensive as compared to alternatives.

Real Seal Specialty Seals

If you need seals for your project, contact the team at Real Seal Specialty Seals. They are skilled in providing materials and designs that can effectively solve your seal application issues. Due to the unique nature of O-rings, Real Seal can develop effective solutions for any of your applications to not only enhance the performance, but also ensure the integrity of the process. While O-rings are consistently the same shape, their thickness can be adapted to your unique project. Contact the team at Real Seal today for any of your sealant needs!