Gaskets and O-rings are helpful in many industrial applications. They seal out liquid and air. However, temperature may negatively impact the functionality and durability of these sealing agents. What must users know to ensure the gaskets and O-rings function as intended?
Elasticity
When the temperature rises, o-rings and gaskets become more elastic and better able to conform to their mating surfaces. They become more rigid when the temperature drops, which reduces their ability to keep liquid and air out. Specific applications have regular temperature fluctuations, and the user must consider this when looking for an O-ring or gasket to use in an application.
Hardness
Temperature also affects the hardness of a gasket or O-ring. High temperatures often decrease the hardness of certain materials. When this hardness decreases, the material may deform under pressure, preventing the O-ring or gasket from maintaining a consistent seal. If the temperature drops too low, the O-ring or gasket might harden. It may become brittle and crack. Manufacturers must understand and manage hardness across different temperatures to ensure the O-rings and gaskets perform as expected.
Thermal Expansion and Contraction
All materials expand and contract with temperature changes. When O-rings and gaskets expand too much, they put excessive pressure on their mating surfaces. Contraction of the O-rings and gaskets can lead to the leaking of liquid or air. Manufacturers need to consider the cross-sectional design of the seating agent, its material composition, and the application pressure to determine how the agent will react to temperature fluctuations.
Compression Set
When compressive force is removed, an O-ring or gasket is permanently deformed, and this deformation is known as compression set. Compression set impacts the sealing agent’s performance, as the agent’s ability to recover after being deformed determines how well it will hold a seal. Temperature can affect the agent’s ability to rebound and, therefore, seal.
Chemical Resistance
O-rings and gaskets used in industrial applications will frequently be exposed to various chemicals. Certain materials become more permeable when exposed to high temperatures. Decreased temperatures may make the sealing agents more resistant to chemicals, so manufacturers must know the material used in constructing the gaskets and O-rings to determine how they will respond.
Lifespan
Temperature affects the lifespan of O-rings and gaskets, which manufacturers must consider when choosing. Extreme heat may lead to accelerated aging and degradation. The agents will no longer seal properly and must be replaced. If the degradation and aging happen early, the manufacturer must invest in repairs, which can become costly if the gaskets must be replaced regularly. On the other hand, extreme cold can lead to the o-rings and gaskets becoming brittle and cracking. Manufacturers must consider temperature fluctuations in the facility where the sealing agents will be used to select the right products.
Manufacturers must monitor environmental conditions in their facilities to ensure that O-rings and gaskets are protected from harm. Regular inspections of the machinery will alert owners to problems early, allowing them to be corrected before they escalate. These inspections reduce downtime and repair costs. They alert the plant operator to the need for better temperature management.
When purchasing O-rings and gaskets, manufacturers must understand the critical role temperature plays in their functionality and durability. By considering the effects of temperature on these sealing agents, the manufacturers can increase the odds of optimal performance. However, this is only one factor they should consider when selecting. Working with a reputable supplier makes the process easier, ensuring customers consider all factors when buying. This help is priceless.
