Restrictions on the use of O-rings – Seals
Although some people say that O-rings provide a reasonable method for ideal hydraulic seals, they should not be seen as a direct solution to all sealing problems. In previous discussions, it has been pointed out that there are some clear limitations to their use, such as high temperatures, high friction speeds, cylinder ports that seals must pass through, and large shaft clearances. Ignoring these limitations will lead to poor sealing performance. Piston rings, lip seals, lap fits Flat washers and fittings have a special position in hydraulic design, but they will be found to provide long-term and reliable services when design specifications allow for the correct use of O-ring seals
Although it is not claimed that O-rings can perform optimally under all conditions, they are worth considering in most sealing applications, except for:
A. A contact speed exceeding 1500 feet per minute when rotating.
B. Environments that are completely incompatible with any elastic material.
C. The structure is not sufficient to support anything other than flat washers.
Note: These viewpoints are general statements, with many exceptions. The following sections discuss detailed information on O-ring seal design for specific situations: applications, elastomers, factors applicable to all O-ring types, static O-ring seals, and dynamic O-ring seals that can be referenced as needed