O-ring
An O-ring is a form of elastomer often used as a mechanical seal or gasket intended to be positioned in a condensed space left between two or more parts and restricting any gaps and holes in between these parts. O-rings are one of the most common seals used in machine design because they are cheap and simple, reliable, and have simple assembling requirements. They are readily available in many different sizes with lubrication sometimes needed for fittings with non-static areas.
An O-ring functions as a seal through the mechanical deformation of the elastomeric compound by mating metal surfaces. This creates a condition of zero clearance which blocks the liquid or gas being sealed. The pressure which causes the O-Ring to move is supplied by mechanical pressure or squeeze generated by proper gland design, material selection, and by the system pressure transmitted by the fluid itself. Thriving O-ring joint design requires a rigid mechanical mounting that applies a predictable deformation to the O-ring. This introduces a calculated mechanical stress at the O-ring contacting surfaces.
As long as the pressure of the fluid being contained does not surpass the contact stress, there will be no indications of leakages. The seal is produced to have a point contact between the O-ring and sealing faces. This allows a high local stress, able to contain high pressure, without exceeding the yield stress of the O-ring body. The flexible characteristics of the materials accommodate deficiencies in the mounting parts.
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