O-rings and simmerings – the most popular among seals

O-rings and simmerings are one of the most popular seals. Of course, they are also used in travel final drives. They perform a protective function. To some extent, thanks to them we have the ability to operate machines – they allow controlled use of high pressures. These types of seals also retain oils, greases and hydraulic fluids.

O-rings

They are seals ring (a type of torus-shaped gasket). Thanks to their flexibility and practical construction, the O-rings have a wide range of applications. They are the simplest and most common type of seal that has been created.

O-rings are self-acting and double-acting sealing elements. A radial or axial pre-clamp ensures tightness in the absence of pressure. Under pressure, the forces from the pre-clamp and pressure overlap, resulting in a total sealing force that increases as the pressure increases. Under pressure, the o-ring has similar properties to liquids with high surface tension. Thanks to this, the pressure spreads evenly in all directions.

Sealing sizes are vary widely. Thanks to this, they are perfect for sealing parts of different sizes, both in motion and at rest. They are made of elastomeric materials, for example, rubber or neoprene or silicone. Of course, their low price has an incredible impact on their popularity.

Simmerings

Simmering, like O-rings, are one of the most popular types of seals. Sometimes an alternative name used for them is lip seals. These rings are made of rubber stiffened with a metal insert, sometimes encased in a tin cover. They are used in rotating elements working e.g. in grease, oil, fuel or water, usually at pressures up to 0.1 MPa, in the temperature range from -30 to +110 ° C.  They are placed between rotating machine elements to hold the lubricant and prevent dirt from entering. Simmering is also a common seal on sliding joints.

As standard, simmer rings are made of various types of rubber (e.g. acrylic, silicone or fluorine), polyamide or polyurethane.

How to dimension o-rings and simmerings?

For O-rings we will need two values: the inner diameter of the O-ring and its thickness. Simmering will be selected by specifying its outer and inner diameter as well as height.