If you use O-ring seals on your manufacturing equipment and machines, then you have to choose the right material for the job. The conditions that the O-ring is under and the materials it comes into contact with can affect the seal's durability.

While many O-rings are made from materials like rubber, plastics and polymers, some products are made of metal. In some cases, most of the seal has a metallic composition; in others, the O-ring contains some metal below its surface coating.

What are the benefits of using metal seals?

Better Performance

O-rings that are made of softer materials and compounds can't always deal with difficult conditions. For example, extreme heat or cold can affect the seal's material. It might expand and lose its shape. Or, it might become so brittle that it cracks or breaks.

The material might not stay in place effectively under very high pressures. Plus, any material flow that touches the seal can also be a problem. Chemicals can degrade some sealing materials or change their composition until they stop working.

If you use metal O-rings, then you get a more robust and hard-wearing solution. These seals manage heat and cold more effectively. They can withstand being sited in vacuums and pressurised systems. The seals are less likely to change shape or to get damaged.

Longer Shelf-Life

If you keep a store of O-rings in your facility, then you have spares if you ever need to replace a worn or damaged one. You might not use your spares all that often, but it is handy to have them on site.

However, you might run into problems if you store O-rings made from plastics, rubber or polymers. For example, if these products get too hot or too cold, then their materials might degrade. They also age and lose some of their effectiveness over time.

Metal O-rings are more long-lasting and durable. They are easier to store and less likely to age.

Effective Detectability

If you manufacture certain products, like foods or pharmaceuticals, then you have to take care not to contaminate anything on your production lines. You can't have foreign objects or materials in these kinds of goods.

Sometimes, you might find that part of a seal comes away during the production process. It might fall into one of your products.

If the seal is made from rubber or plastic, then it could be undetectable. You could lose a whole production run because you can't take any chances. However, if you use metal O-rings, then your standard detection process would pick up the metal.

To find out more, contact O-ring suppliers.