Industrial processing operations are complicated and full of different technical variables. Wear and tear over time can cause machines and their often-smaller components to fail. When these processes involve products that are for human consumption, regulation is tight, and problems can be costly. Completely shutting down the equipment to conduct an inspection presents its own set of problems, including unproductive downtime, potential contamination and safety risks. But there is a solution. Read on to learn more about how metal detectable O-rings can save you time and money.
For more information on specialty seals and other seal systems, visit Real Seal today.
A Cost-Effective Solution
As machinery breaks down and rubber fragments from seals and gaskets make their way into the process stream, one solution to this issue is to use metal detectable O-rings. Unlike natural rubber or silicone O-rings, metal detectable O-rings are compounded with special additives, so they can be identified by metal detectors and X-ray machines. O-ring fragments as small as 2mm can be found so the fragments can be removed manually or by magnetic separators, thus improving product safety and any government regulations.
Made from various materials including silicone, flouroelastomer, ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) and others, these are designed to be used in standard OEM equipment and will perform just like traditional O-rings. They will also perform well with high and low temperatures with typical mechanical stress and are resistant to corrosive chemicals.
There are different supplier certifications and federal regulations for O-rings that come in contact with products such as food, beverages or pharmaceuticals. Officially, O-rings are usually classified as indirect food additives, meaning they are substances that come into contact with the processing stream but are not intended to be a part of the end product. Other substances included in this classification include packaging materials and other pieces of equipment that come in contact with the end product but do not mix with it.
A common practice in industrial processing today is to have a Hazard Analysis Control Point (HACCP) program in place which requires that any machinery that comes into direct contact with the product stream must be metal and X-ray detectable. Metal detectable O-rings meet this requirement. You should check with your O-ring or specialty seal supplier to see what your options are and how metal detectable o-rings can help you to limit your downtime, increase safety and save you money in the long run.
Specialty Seals & Gaskets
Real Seal is a manufacturer and distributor of specialty seal products and mechanical component goods, with a focus on performance-oriented rubber and plastic materials. Real Seal is one of the most technically advanced organizations in the industry, maintaining a fully equipped laboratory, full-time chemist and technical staff, allowing Real Seal the ability to assist with design challenges and formulate materials to meet specific criteria.
Known for our expertise in polyurethane O-rings, we offer a wide array of performance-oriented plastic and rubber solutions for sealing and mechanical applications. Real Seal is set up to meet the needs of the more fragmenting aspects of the industry. Industrial manufacturers are being asked to offer consumers more choices with a wider latitude of performance criteria, all with greater economic constraints. As the industry continues to evolve to meet the demands of consumers as well as the challenges of international competition, Real Seal will continue to provide practical solutions and value to our customers.
Contact Real Seal today for help in meeting your composite sealing demands.
