Recognizing & Avoiding O-Ring Failure

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O-rings are used in just about every industry and typically to block the flow of liquids, gasses, or other materials. Their actual makeup and function is a bit unique, however. Why? In order to function properly the O-ring must deform.

Basically, O-rings are doughnut shaped parts that are installed in cavities known as glands and compressed into the cavity to form a seal. To ensure proper functionality the O-ring’s material, design, selection for the application, and installation must all be carefully controlled. If not, the O-ring (and potentially the entire piece of equipment it is installed in) could fail.

The most common causes of O-ring failure are:

  • Incorrect size O-ring selected for the application
  • Material and environmental incompatibility
  • Improper design
  • Improper installation
  • And more

If an O-ring fails, the cause of that failure can be complex and difficult to evaluate. The most common types of O-ring failure that can occur include (but are not limited to):

  • Abrasion
  • Compression Set
  • Damage During Installation
  • Excessive Swelling
  • Explosive Decompression
  • Extrusion or Nibbling
  • Heat Hardening or Oxidation
  • Spiral Failure
  • Weather or Ozone Cracking
  • And more
Failure ReasonWhat causes itHow to identify it
AbrasionPoor lubrication, excessive temperatures, fluid contaminated with abrasive particles, and more.A flattened surface on the O-ring indicates abrasion damage.
Compression SetExcessive swelling, low heat resistance, squeezed too hard to achieve a seal, incomplete curing during manufacture, and more.Flat surfaces on both sides of the O-ring’s cross-section.
Damage During InstallationSharp edges on mating components, sharp threads, oversized O-rings, O-ring twisted or pinched, improper lubrication, and more.Short cuts or notches on the O-ring or skinning/peeling surface.
Excessive SwellingThe O-ring absorbed surrounding fluids and swelled due to incompatible material and environment.A dramatic increase in the O-ring’s dimensions.
Explosive DecompressionAbsorption of gasses at high pressures, or rapid decreases in pressure that causes the O-ring’s micropores to trap gasses.Random short splits or ruptures deep in the O-ring’s cross-section. Can also appear on the surface as small blisters.
Extrusion or NibblingExcessive system pressure, O-ring made of material that is too soft for the application, fluid degradation of the O-ring, irregular gaps, improper O-ring size, and more.Small pieces or “nibbled bites” taken out of the O-ring.
Heat Hardening or OxidationExcessive temperatures applied to incorrect O-ring material for that application can cause hardening, evaporation of plasticizers, and cracking.The O-ring surface appears pitted or cracked, often with flattened areas.
Spiral FailureThis is caused by simultaneous sliding and rolling of different segments of the O-ring.The surface of the O-ring exhibits a series of deep, spiral, 45° angle cuts.
Weather or Ozone CrackingO-rings made with improper materials that are exposed to ozone or other atmospheric pollutants.Appears as small surface cracks perpendicular to the direction of the stress.

Finding the right seal

Choosing the right O-ring is critical to ensure a proper seal. However, finding the right seal for your application can be challenging. Prior to selecting a seal, it is best that you consult an expert. While the right materials or finishing treatment for your application is best defined by your process engineer, we are always here to assist you.

UC Components, Inc. can help!

UC Components, Inc. RediVac® O-rings are specially processed for use in critical applications. All of our O-rings are cleaned and packaged in our certified Class 100/ISO Class 5 Cleanroom, making them suitable for immediate use in most HV, UHV, EUV, or other clean-critical applications. Vacuum baked O-rings are available for reduced outgassing under vacuum.

Our standard O-rings are manufactured from top-quality fluoroelastomer materials. Buna, silicone, and other materials are available upon request. Specific chemistries may also be available upon request.

UC Components, Inc. has been the world leader in high vacuum hardware since 1974. We specialize in O-rings and fasteners for High Vacuum, Ultra High Vacuum, and other critical applications. View our parts catalog online to find the components you need, request a quote, or contact us for more assistance or additional information.

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