How high temperature can ordinary O-rings withstand? Comprehensive analysis of O-ring temperature resistance performance
As a "universal component" among seals, O-rings are widely used in industry, automobiles, aerospace and other fields. Its high temperature resistance is one of the parameters that users are most concerned about. This article will analyze the temperature resistance range of ordinary O-rings in detail and provide structured data for reference.
1. The relationship between O-ring material and temperature resistance

The temperature resistance properties of O-rings made of different materials vary significantly. The following is a comparison of the temperature resistance ranges of common materials:
| Material type | Short-term temperature resistance (℃) | Long-term temperature resistance (℃) | Low temperature limit(℃) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nitrile rubber (NBR) | 120 | 100 | -40 |
| Fluorine rubber (FKM) | 250 | 200 | -20 |
| Silicone rubber (VMQ) | 230 | 200 | -60 |
| Ethylene propylene rubber (EPDM) | 150 | 125 | -50 |
| Perfluoroether rubber (FFKM) | 327 | 280 | -15 |
2. Typical temperature resistance data of ordinary O-rings
The so-called "ordinary O-rings" on the market usually refer to NBR material, and its specific temperature resistance performance is as follows:
| temperature range | Performance | Service life |
|---|---|---|
| Below 80℃ | Stable performance | 3-5 years |
| 100-120℃ | Slightly hardened | 1-2 years |
| 120-150℃ | accelerated aging | 3-6 months |
| Above 150℃ | Rapid failure | hours to weeks |
3. Key factors affecting temperature resistance
1.media type: At the same temperature, the temperature resistance in oil medium is better than that in water medium
2.stress conditions: High-pressure environment will reduce the actual temperature resistance by about 10-15℃
3.dynamic/static: The temperature resistance under dynamic sealing conditions is 20-30°C lower than that under static conditions.
4.Recipe differences: Special additives can improve temperature resistance by 5-10℃
4. Suggestions on selection for high temperature working conditions
When the operating temperature exceeds the endurance range of ordinary O-rings, it is recommended to consider the following alternatives:
| temperature range | Recommended materials | cost factor |
|---|---|---|
| 120-200℃ | Fluorine rubber (FKM) | 3-5 times |
| 200-280℃ | Perfluoroether rubber (FFKM) | 10-20 times |
| Above 280℃ | Metal sealing ring | 50-100 times |
5. Early warning characteristics of high temperature failure
1.Appearance changes: The surface appears cracked, sticky or noticeably hardened.
2.size changes: Diameter shrinkage exceeding 5% requires immediate replacement.
3.Loss of elasticity: Failure when compression permanent deformation exceeds 40%
4.seal leakage: Visible leakage or reduced pressure holding ability
6. Use and maintenance suggestions
1. Regular inspection: It is recommended to inspect every 3 months in high temperature environment
2. Avoid dry friction: high temperature + dry friction will accelerate aging by 3-5 times
3. Cleaning and maintenance: Removing surface carbon can extend service life by 20-30%
4. Correct installation: use special tools to avoid stretching and deformation
From the above analysis, it can be seen that the ordinary NBR material O-ringThe upper limit of safe use temperature is 120℃, exceeding this temperature should consider upgrading materials. The actual selection also needs to comprehensively consider factors such as pressure, medium, cost, etc. It is recommended to consult a professional sealing engineer for system evaluation.
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