Installing o rings correctly is vital for any application.
Why?
Because even the slightest mistake or error during the installation process can cause untold damage and problems, such as uncontrolled leaks.
The good news is, there are some best practice procedures that you can turn to during the installation of o rings helping you to avoid any short and long term problems from occurring.
1. Make sure to use the correct size seal. It may seem obvious, but using the wrong o ring size can result in additional problems such as leaks due to poor fit. Hence, choosing the right o ring size is vital. To help, here at SSP we have the right tools and equipment to enable you to measure and choose the right seal for the application in question.
2. Follow the manufacturer’s design practices. Installing o rings following the manufacturer’s design practice will ensure the perfect fit. Considering the o rings dimensions, so it can uphold the right level of compression from the application. We’d recommend you always refer to this information in the first instance.
3. Consider using lubricant. Before installation it would help if you adequately lubricated all o rings. Applying a thin coating of grease, silicone oil, mineral oil, or application fluid will help to minimise friction (friction can occur when the o ring and surface are paired and rub against each other’s surfaces during compression). Lubrication can also allow the o ring to pass over the threads much easier during installation without causing any damage. Proper lubrication will also minimise the risk of the seal becoming damaged or twisting. Lubricating agents should produce a tension film, be appropriate for the application’s temperature range, not block or cause an obstruction to the system filters, and work well with the system’s fluids.
4. Torque is essential. Depending on the tube’s design and the application will depend on how much torque you should apply when tightening o rings. Often you will find guidance on this area from the manufacturer.
5. Use the right tools for the job. Installing seals correctly and without error can only be achieved when you use the right tools and equipment to install them. Proper o ring and seal installation kits are available for this type of work.
These tips and best practices for installing o rings will help prevent overstretching and your application experiencing unsuitable gland volume. You will also avoid issues in the long term where failure is reported without evidence.
As a final note and quick-fire tip:
Guiding the o ring down the shaft rather than rolling it. Rolling can cause small tears to occur, and ultimately, it won’t be installed in a spiral state, so you will most likely experience damage and hence leaks from the application.
Specialist Sealing Products has a wide range of gaskets, o rings, and sealing products available and suitable for various applications across all industry sectors.
To find out more and if you have any further questions on your o rings, call us on 01535 274 776.
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