O-ring Installation
An O-ring may be easily damaged by improper handling and may fail for this reason alone. Prior to O-ring installation, make sure that ALL glandular surfaces are free of all debris. If necessary, clean these surfaces with an appropriate solvent THAT IS COMPATIBLE WITH THE O-RING BEING INSTALLED.
Before installation, make sure to lightly coat the O-ring with a lubricant that is compatible with the O-ring being installed, as well as compatible with system chemicals.
In piston applications, avoid stretching the O-ring more than 100% during installation (stretch should not exceed 5% in the application). Also, be sure to stretch it uniformly. Cones, or mandrels, are often used to assist in these installations. Once the O-ring has been installed, make certain to remove any twists.
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