O-rings are round rings made of materials like polyurethane, silicone, neoprene, nitrile rubber, or fluorocarbon. They are used in mechanical applications to create an airtight seal between two objects. O-rings are inexpensive and can withstand high pressure. They are used in various industries, including space and aircraft. Different types of O-rings are used for different tasks, and they must be matched to their application. A faulty O-ring caused the Space Shuttle Challenger catastrophe in 1986.
An O-ring is a round ring used as a gasket to seal a connection. O-rings are typically made from polyurethane, silicone, neoprene, nitrile rubber, or fluorocarbon. These rings are commonly used in mechanical applications, such as pipe connections, and help ensure an airtight seal between two objects. O-rings are designed to sit in a groove or housing that holds the ring in place. Once in its track, the ring is compressed between the two pieces and in turn creates a strong seal where they meet.
The seal created by a rubber or plastic O-ring can exist in an immovable joint, such as between pipes, or in a movable joint, such as a hydraulic cylinder. However, moving joints often require O-ring lubrication. In a mobile housing this ensures a slower deterioration of the O-ring and thus lengthens the useful life of the product.
O-rings are both inexpensive and simple in design and are therefore very popular in manufacturing and industry. When fitted correctly, O-rings can withstand very high pressure and are therefore used in many applications where leaks or pressure drop is unacceptable. For example, the O-rings used in hydraulic cylinders prevent hydraulic fluid from escaping and allow the system to build up and withstand the pressures required for operation.
O-rings are also used in highly technical constructions such as space ships and other aircraft. A faulty O-ring has been blamed for the Space Shuttle Challenger catastrophe in 1986. An O-ring used in the manufacture of the solid rocket booster did not seal as expected due to cold weather conditions at launch. As a result, the vessel exploded after just 73 seconds of flight. This highlights the importance of the O-ring and its versatility.
Naturally, different types of O-rings made of different materials are used for various tasks. The O-ring must be matched to its application. Don’t confuse though with similar inventions that aren’t round. These items are siblings of the O-ring and are simply referred to as seals instead.
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