When you run an industrial operation, you can't afford to take chances with the equipment. Unfortunately, there are some components of the equipment that can be overlooked. One of those components is the o-ring. You might not realise this, but o-ring problems can wreak havoc on the equipment, which is why you need to ensure proper care. Here are four tips that will help you to avoid problems with your industrial o-rings.
Practice Safe Removal
If you're not practising safe removal methods for your o-rings, you could be putting them at risk for damage. Unfortunately, if you're working with damaged o-rings, there's an increased risk that your equipment will suffer a catastrophic malfunction. That's why proper removal is so important. The best way to remove an o-ring is to use the right tool. An o-ring pick-stick will safely remove the o-ring from the housing, without causing damage.
Provide Proper Cleaning
When it comes to caring for your industrial o-rings, it's important that you provide proper cleaning. You might not realise this, but o-ring cleaning should be part of your routine maintenance schedule. When cleaning o-rings, you'll want to remove all the dirt, grease, grime and salt that can accumulate on the surface. Begin by soaking your o-rings in a mild cleaning solution. Soaking the o-rings will loosen the debris, which will allow you to clean the surface without causing damage. For maximum benefits, o-rings should be cleaned each time you service your equipment.
Avoid Storage Damage
If you keep an extra supply of o-rings on hand, it's important that you take steps to avoid storage damage. You might not know this, but improper storage can cause significant o-ring damage. First, place your o-rings in an airtight container prior to storage. Second, always store o-rings away from direct sunlight. Finally, be sure to rotate your o-ring stock. Using these storage methods will help you to extend the life of your o-rings.
Ensure Routine Inspection
Finally, if you want to keep your equipment in good working order, you need to start with your o-rings. One way to ensure proper performance from your o-rings is to inspect them on a regular basis. When you inspect your o-rings, you should look for signs of damage. Some of those signs include cracking, stretching, or deterioration. If you see signs of damage, you should replace your o-rings immediately.
Talk to an industrial equipment provider for more information.
Share16 June 2021
Hello, my name is Richard and I own a medium-sized industrial unit in Sydney, Australia. I only started the business a few months ago, so I am not a professional in any sense of the word. Before I could set the business going, I had to kit out the new factory with equipment. I didn't have a clue where to source the best equipment or how to get the best deal. Thankfully, my brother-in-law is worked in manufacturing for many years. He came along with me when we viewed the equipment and got me the very best stuff. I decided to start this blog to help others who are just starting out.