How an O-ring works
The O-ring is one of the simplest, most common types of seal for a wide array of static and dynamic applications. The style of the O-ring groove is relatively simple - by following well-developed rules for groove geometry, an economical and reliable seal is obtained. The tendency on the O-ring to return to its original shape when the cross-section is compressed is definitely the standard cause an O-ring makes an excellent seal.
The diametrical squeeze offers a frictional force amongst theRubber O-ring along with the groove that holds it in the installed position. Engineered to deform, the rubber compound flows as much as the extrusion gap, fully sealing it against leakage, till the pressure applied is sufficient adequate to overcome the frictional forces and deform the O-ring in to the tiny extrusion gap (assuming the rubber has reached its limit of flow beneath pressure, additional increase of force will result in failure by shear or extrusion).
Rising the applied pressure creates an interference strain in between the seal and also the mating surfaces. When this predicament remains, the O-ring will continue to function typically and reliably as much as quite a few hundred pounds of force, assuming the O-ring selected is definitely the appropriate size plus the groove is machined to the appropriate size.