O-rings are an integral component of numerous machines and other applications. Shaped like a donut, the ring can play a major role in various machines and applications. The ring-shaped seals are often made from elastomers. They are designed to prevent fluid and gas from leaking around mating surfaces (areas where two or more passages meet). Leakage on mating surfaces can cause serious damage and disrupt the machine process. This is why O-rings are vitally important as they can effectively prevent this from happening. O-rings can be made using a variety of different manufacturing processes. Below you will find the top 4 manufacturing processes for O-rings.

Top 4 Manufacturing Processes for O-Rings

O-rings are an integral part of many applications as they are vital in maintaining the function and purpose of them. Consider the top 4 manufacturing processes for O-rings. 

1. Extrusion: Many O-rings can be made extrusion, a manufacturing process in which raw material is forced through a die or series of dies. There are different forms of extrusion, including hot extrusion, cold extrusion, friction extrusion, and microextrusion. When the material passes through the die (or dies), it ultimately takes on the shape of the die. Some types of extrusion manufacturing processes use a hopper. Raw material is fed into a hopper and heated. Once the material is heated, it is forced through a die or series of dies. O-rings are heated and passed through a ring-shaped die.
2. Pressure Molding: Another effective manufacturing process used to produce O-rings is pressure molding. Also referred to a “compression molding,” pressure molding uses heat and pressure to create a three-dimensional O-ring. The O-ring pressure molding manufacturing process begins by injecting preheated material into a mold cavity. This is often rubber, but can be other materials. Once the material is injected into the mold cavity, a fitted plug is used to close the cavity. The pressure is increased in the mold which allows the material to take shape.
3. Transfer Molding: O-rings can also be made using transfer molding, which is substantially similar to pressure molding. The manufacturing process of transfer molding involves placing preheated material into a mold cavity. Unlike pressure molding, transfer molding requires a closed mold cavity, not an open mold. Because transfer molding uses a closed mold cavity, the molding is able to create higher pressure. This makes the finished product thicker and often provides more consistent results.
4. Injection Molding: Injection molding is an effective manufacturing process that can be used to create O-rings. The process involves injecting raw material into a mold cavity, usually in the form of pellets. The pellets are then heated and become liquified, making them easily moldable once in the mold cavity. 

Real Seal Specialty Seals

O-ring and other sealing systems are necessary for a variety of applications. The team at Real Seal are experts in specialty seals as they excel in providing both materials and designs that can solve any problem. Their focus is on performance as that is the number one priority for any application. Specialty seal considerations include the need for quality consumer and industrial products, environmental regulations, economic demands, performance demands, and consistency. They offer a variety of materials, including EPDM, Fluorocarbon, Silicone, BR, HNBR, and other rubber and plastic materials. These can be customized to meet your unique application needs.

The team at Real Seal are industry experts in both the manufacturing and distribution of seal products and mechanical component goods. Their products are high-quality, durable, consistent and efficient. No matter what your sealant needs are, Real Seal can provide you with customized options to meet your project needs. Avoid wasting time and contact Real Seal today for support!