Article re-posted with permission from Parker Hannifin Sealing & Shielding Team. Original content can be found on Parker’s Blog.
This video provides instructions on how to properly install and uninstall a Parker TechSeal's hollow O-ring. Although appearing simple, the installation process of a hollow O-ring requires a proper method in order to prevent overstretching the seal.
[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pCMwwuyfrso[/embed]
The best way to install a hollow O-ring is to start at one point and work your way around the groove, pushing the seal into the groove. Once the seal is installed, lightly slide your finger around the seal to make sure that the seal is positioned and aligned correctly. Replacement is also fast and simple; gently pull the old seal out of the groove and install a new one.
The incorrect method to install a hollow O-ring is to push the seal into the groove at one point and stretch the seal around the groove track. Stretching the seal will result in fitting issue, inadequate sealing and ultimately seal failure.
Parker's TechSeal Division designs and manufactures hollow O-rings in standard series and friction-fit series. The friction-fit feature enables the seal to remain inside the groove without the need for adhesives, O-ring lubricants or mechanical fasteners. Parker TechSeal's hollow O-ring is a low closure force sealing solution for enclosure applications and many other static applications. A hollow O-ring is mostly installed on the face of an application and therefore is called face seal or axial seal.
For more information on Parker hollow o-rings, or questions about how to install an o-ring, please contact us. Our Customer Service team and our first-in-class Engineering Department can answer your toughest questions.