O-ring Groove
O-ring Groove is the seat where the o-ring is placed. SAE Flanges are designed in two types which are the flat side and o-ring side. For the o-ring side, there is a space where the o-ring is placed to serve as a sealing gasket for the two metal surfaces intended to be combined.
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An o-ring is a gasket placed between two metal surfaces to give a tight connection and leak-free operation for the hydraulic system. The o-ring groove also serves as a securing place for the o-ring and gives it the ability to get compressed between the two surfaces.
1. What is an O-ring ?
An o-ring is a gasket type used in flanges to seal the connection and give a leak-free operation. The primary aim of the o-ring is to seal the connection and ensure no escape of air, liquid, or gas during operation. O-rings are made of different rubber materials such as Nitrile NBR fluoroelastomer FKM, ethylene propylene diene monomer, silicon rubber, etc. O-rings are placed in the groove seat of the flange and compressed between two metal surfaces when the bolts are tightened. When this is done, the o-ring creates a tight seal for the connection.
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O-rings are suitable for use in different applications, requiring either high and low pressures or temperatures. For example, they are applied in SAE flanges and piping line applications. Based on tests, o-rings can withstand working pressure up to 6000 PSI. O-rings are one of the most common gasket types due to their reduced cost, ease of application, reliable and simple installation procedure. O-rings are designed in a variety of sizes based on the o-ring groove size and flange to be used.
As versatile as o-rings are, they are not suitable for high-speed movement systems. As o-rings get compressed during movement, they are to bounce back. However, the o-rings may find it difficult to do so when used in fast-moving systems, thus causing a problem for the o-ring. However, they are suitable for slower applications such as spindles, rotary transmissions, shafts, etc. generally, rings are very durable and guarantee a productive operation.
2. What is an o-ring groove ?
O-rings are placed on a seat which is referred to as an o-ring groove. An o-ring groove is a seat where the o-ring is fitted in to seal the metal surfaces. The o-ring groove is also known as the o-ring gland. O-ring groove serves as an area to protect the o-ring against friction and to give the needed strength to the tool which will help to create a perfect and tight connection. The o-ring groove is made in different designs. The o-ring gland or groove is produced in different sizes which also dictates the size of the o-ring to be used for the application. The various types of o-ring grooves will be explained in the next subsection below.
3. What are the types of oring groove?
O-ring groove is designed in different types. The various types are briefly explained below:
O-ring groove's major purpose is to serve as the seat for the placement of the o-ring. The o-ring then serves as the major sealant of the connection. With the use of the o-ring, there is a lesser risk for the escape of gas or process fluids during operation.
4. Oring Groove Dimensions ?
SAE Flanges groove side has two main dimensions which are diameter and thickness. Please refer to table dimensions below and o-ring type refer to o-ring size from different SAE Flange body size.
Figure 1: SAE O-ring Dimensions
Figure 2: SAE O-ring Seat Dimensions
5. What are the uses of O-rings?
O-rings are applied in different applications and industries as listed below:
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Transportation: o-rings are applied in the transportation industry for heavy-duty trucks, aerospace, etc.
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Medical Industry: for the production of pumps, connectors, field syringes, etc.
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Food and Beverages: o-rings are used in the food processing and beverage dispensing sections.
Other industries include electronics, oil and gas, chemical and industrial uses.
6. How are O-rings Installed ?
For the successful installation of o-rings, please refer to the details below:
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Generously lubricate the o-ring. While it is important to lubricate the o-ring, it is also necessary to avoid overhauling the o-ring.
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Also, make sure there are no sharp edges on the component that is exposed. This may damage the o-ring during installation.
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When stretching the o-ring, you have to ensure it is not overstretching. Stretching should not exceed 50% and should be done uniformly.
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Thereafter, slide the o-ring into the seat. You should slide and not roll the material to avoid any problems.