.webp)
The O-ring, introduced in the late 19th century and officially patented in the U.S. in the 1930s, immediately sparked interest in the potential of its design. Soon, designers incorporated the O-ring into devices such as engines, pumps, and pipe joints.
Over a century later, the O-ring is now the most commonly used seal in the world. The core form and function of the O-ring have remained the same, but technological developments have improved O-ring seal applications and options. There are different material and size options to suit any device’s specifications.
At Wyatt Seal, we offer a wide range of material options and custom sealing solutions for any application.
It is important to understand what O-rings are and why they are such a popular seal choice. An O-ring is a round, donut-shaped object that is used to create a seal between two surfaces in a highly pressurized environment. When installed correctly, an O-ring seal can prevent nearly all fluids from escaping containers in both liquid and gaseous states.
The material of O-rings depends on their application, but common materials for O-rings include nitrile, HNBR, fluorocarbon, EPDM, and silicone. O-rings also come in various sizes since they must be fitted precisely to function correctly. These seals are called O-rings because of their circular or “O-shaped” cross-section. The shape of the O-ring stays consistent, but the size and material are customizable.
O-rings are used for sealing components in high-pressure applications where their unique resistance to pressure and maintaining shape are essential. O-ring seals are installed into the space between two components or surfaces that are placed together. For example, O-rings are placed between the grooves in two components of a pump.
Once installed, the O-ring seal remains in place and is compressed in the joint, forming a tight, sturdy seal. With proper installation, material, and size, the O-ring can withstand internal pressure and prevent any fluid from escaping.
O-rings may warp under too much pressure if installed incorrectly or if they are not the proper size or material. However, O-rings can withstand significant pressure in the right conditions. Most standard O-rings are designed to function at pressures up to 1500 psi. O-ring suppliers are able to provide designs that can operate at higher pressures when necessary.
O-rings can be applied to any device or machinery with components that require secure sealing. Common applications include devices like vehicle engines, fuel pumps, valves, storage tanks, and more. These broad applications leave potential for a variety of industries to benefit from O-ring seals.
O-rings are commonly used in the following industries:
An O-ring’s reliability is directly related to proper installation and appropriately chosen materials. When selecting the O-ring that will suit your project’s needs, it is important to consult professionals and explore all material options.
Often, O-ring seals are color-coded to correspond to their material. Color coding is available and can simplify the installation process, but you should never assume that color tells you the material of a previously existing O-ring.
.jpg?width=350&height=195&name=image001%20(7).jpg)
Since O-ring sizing requires precision, O-rings have two identifying measurements: the inside diameter (ID) and the cross-section (CS). The inside diameter is found by measuring the inside of the O-ring, from inside wall to inside wall. The cross-section measurement is found by measuring the width of one side of the O-ring. This could also be defined as the height of the O-ring when it lies on a flat surface.
Check out our O-ring Size Chart for more information.
Tell us about your specific application, and we’ll pair you with an industry expert to understand what you need.
We’ll consult with you to find a solution and source a list of suppliers with products available that meet your specifications.
Order confidently, knowing that you’re getting the right sealing solution that will arrive on time, perform well, and last.
For nearly 50 years, our customers have trusted Wyatt seal to find solutions for even the most complex sealing conditions.
We're proudly aligned with some of the largest seal manufacturers in the world. offering our customers access to thousands of manufactured seals, gaskets, O-rings and many other speciality items.
Choose a partner you can trust to find the right sealing solution for any application.
Need help? Send us a message and we'll connect you with an industry expert for help.
Address:
720 Imperial Ct.,
Charlotte, NC 28273
Phone: 704-587-4640
Address:
417 Hobbs St.,
Tampa, FL 33619
Phone: 813-681-5502
Address:
1047A Ronald Reagan Hwy.,
Covington, LA 70433
Phone: 985-898-3637
Address:
324 Piney Woods Rd.,
Columbia, SC 29212
Phone: 803-749-1212
Address:
240 Aztec Dr.,
Arlington, TN 38002
Phone: 731-668-6556
-min.jpeg)
.png)
.png)
.png)
