Design
8 articles in design
Backup Rings vs O-Rings: They Do Different Jobs
Understand the difference between O-rings and backup rings, when to add anti-extrusion support, and why a backup ring is not a replacement for the primary seal.
X-Rings vs O-Rings for Reciprocating Seals
Compare X-rings and standard O-rings in reciprocating service. Learn when lower friction and better lubricant retention justify the profile change.
O-Ring vs Gasket vs Seal: What is the Difference?
Engineers often use the terms O-ring, gasket and seal interchangeably, but they refer to different sealing components. Learn the definitions, geometries and when to use each type.
O-Ring Compression Rate Guide: Design Calculations, Gland Geometry, and Performance Optimization
A technical guide to O-ring compression rates covering squeeze percentage calculations, gland fill ratios, static vs dynamic sealing design, and common engineering mistakes in groove specification.
High-Pressure O-Ring Design: Backup Rings, Extrusion Prevention & Groove Sizing
Engineering guide to designing O-ring seals for high-pressure applications. Learn how to prevent extrusion, select hardness and material, and size grooves for pressures from 100 bar to over 1,000 bar.
O-Ring Tolerance Guide: ISO 3601-1, AS568 Classes and Precision Grades
Engineering guide to O-ring tolerances. Understand ISO 3601-1 grades, AS568 classes, how tolerances affect sealing and cost, and when to specify N, S, or CS grades.
O-Ring Hardness Guide: 70 Shore A vs 90 Shore A and Application Selection
Engineering guide to O-ring hardness. Understand Shore A scales, how hardness affects sealing force, extrusion resistance, and wear, and when to select 70, 80, or 90 Shore A.
O-Ring Groove Design Guide: Gland Dimensions, Compression & Fill Rate
Practical engineering guide to O-ring groove design. Learn how to calculate groove width, depth, compression rate, and fill rate for static, dynamic, and face seals. Includes metric and imperial tables.