car motorWhen it comes to forces able to deteriorate mechanical components, one of the most destructive is heat. Because of this, it is especially important to make components for such applications from compounds that can withstand a high temperature. O-rings are mechanical gaskets shaped like doughnuts, made from an elastomer loop with round cross-sections that are designed to fit into a groove. They allow compression between two or more parts during assembly, forming a seal at that point. O-rings can be used in applications both where there is motion between the O-ring and other components or where other parts remain stationary. O-rings are an especially important mechanical component, necessary in a broad array of mechanical applications, so heat-resistant O-rings must be fabricated from materials that can withstand heat well.
Applications for high-temperature O-rings include:
Refrigerators and other cooling equipment
Pressurized waterjet cutters
Piping used for transport within petroleum refineries and drilling operations
Pharmaceutical manufacturing
Medical equipment
Manufacturing equipment
Laboratory equipment
Hydraulic equipment
Food and beverage processing
Engines in motor vehicles
Chemical processing
Aircraft and spacecraft