Failure Pattern
Occurring in both static and dynamic seals exposed to atmospheres containing ozone and other air pollutants, this failure mode is marked by the appearance of many small surface cracks perpendicular to the direction of stress.
Problem Sources
- Ozone attack of the polymer chains causing o-ring cracking
Suggested Solutions
- Employ o-ring elastomers that are resistant to ozone attack
- See General Properties of O-Ring Elastomers in the Material Selection Guide
Note: NBR will experience ozone attack when exposed to environmental elements