If you use O-rings in your business, it may be tempting to stock up ahead of time to ensure that your supply is ready when you need it. However, O-rings and other rubber seals are highly sensitive to factors like temperature and humidity, which can severely damage your inventory. Use the following guidelines before re-stocking your O-ring inventory to ensure the maximum ROI:
Packaging
O-Rings must be packaged in a way that protects them from light, ozone, oxygen, and any other contaminants, including dirt. Keep in mind that lubricants and coatings will influence their shelf-life as well.
The bags or boxes that you use are also important: use containers which minimize distortion of the seal (for example, crushing or twisting), as the elastomer will lose performance and shelf-life. For the same reason, avoid overstuffing containers.
Storage Conditions
O-rings must be stored below 100° F (38° C). Like food items, colder temperatures mean better preservation. But before installation, O-rings must be brought back to room temperature to remain flexible. Humidity must be monitored carefully as well, as dry environments will affect the rubber. Too much humidity will cause the seals to absorb water and change dimensions, affecting the performance of the rubber.
Atmospheric ozone can be very destructive for rubber, so be sure to inspect your storage area for ozone-generating equipment that will concentrate ozone near the inventory. Ensure that the room is dark to avoid sunlight and UV light, and be aware of any radiation sources so that you can protect your O-rings accordingly.
Proper Documentation and Stock Rotation
Using the cure date and batch number identification, you should employ the FIFO (“first in, first out”) method of stock rotation. Ensure that your inventory team is prepared to segregate batches, or you may lose important information.
Make sure that you are doing business with an experienced seal distributor will properly label every package in order to maximize O-ring performance and shelf-life. Contact Real Seal today for all of your O-ring questions and needs.
