AS9120B, ISO 9001:2015, and FAA AC 0056B Accredited
O-rings are a vital component for numerous types of fluid power applications. If improperly installed however, an o-ring seal can fail, which can lead to leaks and system failures. Therefore, to meet strict industry standards, o-ring production is extremely careful in terms of design, choice of materials, and installation procedures. The three most important things to do when installing a new o-ring seal is to ensure that the seal is well-lubricated, that it is the right size, and that it has been designed with the application in mind.
Lubrication is vital for reducing surface friction, as well as allowing a smooth transition for installation. Choosing the right lubricant requires considering the seal, the formula of the lubricant, and the system as a whole. The adapter lubricant needs to be compatible with the material the o-ring is made from, without causing swelling or shrinking. Temperature is also an important consideration, as lubricant that runs too hot or too cold can cause maintenance issues as well. Lubricant must also not cause clogs in the system’s filters.
Sizing is something obviously critical to get right, as too large or too small a seal can damage both the o-ring and the entire system. Manufacturers administer qualification testing for o-ring seals to ensure that they are sized correctly and meet customer standards. Most computer-aided measurement (CAM) systems to automatically calculate the dimensions they are working with.
Adapter O-rings should be used for the applications they are designed for. For example, an o-ring’s diameter needs to be smaller than the piston groove diameter it is intended for. The o-ring should be slightly stretched, between 1 and 5%, with 2% being ideal in most cases, and fit snugly within the groove. A good seal design provides more gland void than seal volume, and the maximum seal volume should not exceed 90% of the minimum void gland. Material selection is also critical, as temperature and pressure limitations affect what materials can be used.
At Veritable Aerospace, owned and operated by ASAP Semiconductor, we can help you find all the o-ring seals for the aerospace, civil aviation, and defense industries. We’re always available and ready to help you find all the parts and equipment you need, 24/7-365. For a quick and competitive quote, email us at sales@veritableaerospace.com or call us at 1-714-705-4780.
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