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The humble O-ring is a small but essential component that plays a crucial role in the smooth operation of countless systems. These simple rubber rings, when properly selected and installed, create reliable seals that prevent the leakage of fluids and gases across a wide range of industries. However, choosing the right O-ring involves considering several factors, including material, size, and durometer—each of which can significantly impact performance and longevity.
With so many types of O-rings available, it's important to understand which one suits your specific application best. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most commonly used materials and their benefits for fluid sealing needs.
**Industries & Elastomers**
O-rings are one of the most important, yet often overlooked, inventions in modern engineering. While they may appear as simple rubber rings, they serve a vital function by creating a tight seal when compressed between two surfaces. This makes them indispensable in various industries, from automotive to aerospace. Choosing the right material, size, and hardness (durometer) is essential for ensuring long-term performance and reliability.
Different elastomers offer unique properties that make them suitable for different environments. For example, silicone is ideal for high-temperature applications, while nitrile is known for its resistance to oil and petroleum products. Fluoroelastomers like Viton® excel in harsh chemical environments, making them popular in industrial and aerospace settings.
**Silicone**
Silicone O-rings are known for their excellent temperature resistance, ranging from -80°F to 450°F. They also resist UV light, ozone, and water, making them a great choice for medical, pharmaceutical, and semiconductor industries. However, they are not typically recommended for dynamic sealing applications due to their lower tensile strength and limited resistance to certain chemicals.
**Nitrile (Buna-N)**
Nitrile O-rings are highly resistant to petroleum-based fluids and oils, making them a popular choice in the automotive and oil industries. They also have good compression set and tear resistance. However, they are not ideal for outdoor or high-ozone environments. Nitrile is widely used in hydraulic systems, oil and gas equipment, and general-purpose applications.
**Fluoroelastomer (Viton®)**
Fluoroelastomers like Viton® are designed to perform in extreme conditions, including exposure to high temperatures, strong acids, and ozone. They are commonly used in chemical processing, aerospace, and automotive industries where reliability is critical. Their low compression set and excellent chemical resistance make them a top choice for demanding applications.
**Ethylene Propylene**
Ethylene propylene O-rings are well-suited for environments with exposure to water, steam, and acids. They are often used in the medical and food-grade industries, as well as in commercial aircraft hydraulic systems. However, they are not ideal for sealing petroleum-based fluids.
**Urethane (Polyurethane)**
Urethane O-rings are known for their durability and resistance to oil, grease, and abrasion. They can withstand high pressures and are often used in hydraulic and pneumatic systems, cylinders, and valve applications. Their flexibility and resilience make them a preferred choice in heavy-duty environments.
**APG: The Industry Leader for Industrial Fluid Sealing Products**
With over 30 years of experience, APG has established itself as a leading provider of custom fluid sealing solutions. From aerospace to food and beverage, we offer a wide range of materials and sizes to meet the needs of any industry. Proper storage is essential for maintaining the performance and lifespan of elastomers. Be sure to check our Knowledge Base for tips on how to store your O-rings correctly.
Whether you're looking for standard or custom solutions, APG is here to help. Contact us today or explore our blog for more information on O-ring materials and applications.
July 10, 2025