Sealing Materials

For virtually every O-ring end use, the selection of elastomeric material is contingent upon a number of design factors such as: dynamic or static application; chemical compatibility; the O-ring's ability to resist pressure, heat, cold and friction, and consideration of material availability and cost. (In addition to design factors, of course, one must also consider the nature of the installation, the use of the product and the kind and degree of maintenance that may reasonably be expected.)

With such a multiplicity of design factors to consider, it is possible for several O-ring materials to meet, or nearly meet, your specified application requirements. In the case where several O-ring materials meet your requirements, cost and availability may be the deciding factor.

In the case where several materials NEARLY MEET your application requirements, a compromise material selection may have to be made. In such cases, DUE TO THE COMPLEXITY OF INTERACTING FORCES, IT IS HIGHLY RECOMMENDED THAT YOUR O-RING MATERIAL SELECTION BE RIGOROUSLY TESTED IN THE ACTUAL APPLICATION. Performance assumptions must then be checked so that you are certain that all variables have been carefully considered.

Apple Rubber offers eight popular elastomers in hundreds of compounds. O-rings are available in a choice of these seven basic elastomers each in a range of optional durometers (Shore A Hardnesses). Other elastomers are available upon request.

The most commonly used durometer is 70. These are general recommendations. For specific applications call Apple Rubber at 1-800-828-7745.

Viton^® and Neoprene^® are registered trademarks of DuPont Performance Elastomers.
Fluorel^® is a registered trademark of 3M Corporation.

These temperature ranges are for the family of compounds. Specific compounds may not exhibit the full temperature range. The actual temperature range is subject to specific material formulation. Consult with Apple Rubber for more information. Call 1-800-828-7745.