Complete O-Ring Guide: Selection, Materials and Applications
Everything you need to know about O-Rings, from how they work to how to choose the right one for your application.
What is an O-Ring?
An O-Ring is a toric seal in the shape of a ring, usually made of rubber or elastomer. It is one of the most widely used seals in industry due to its simplicity, effectiveness and low cost.
The O-Ring works by being compressed between two surfaces, creating a barrier that prevents the passage of fluids or gases.
Common O-Ring Materials
- Nitrilo (NBR): Oils and fuels (-40°C to 120°C)
- Viton® (FKM): Aggressive chemicals (-20°C to 200°C)
- EPDM: Steam and water (-50°C to 150°C)
- Silicona (VMQ): Low temperatures (-60°C to 230°C)
How to Choose the Right Size
To select the correct O-Ring, you need to know the inner diameter (ID) and the cross-section diameter (CS).