A wide range of issues can cause O-Rings to work improperly. However, there are a few basic problems that usually result in an O-Ring failing. These problems include:
• Improper gland design, which allows for too much or too little compression, not enough room for seal expansion, and tolerance stack-up
• Incorrect O-Ring size
• Incompatibility with environmental elements
• Improper O-Ring installation
• Inadequate O-Ring lubrication
Although one or many of these may be the cause of the problem, stresses on the O-Ring can be extremely difficult to evaluate. It is important that the O-Ring compound and size are tested in the real environment of its service.