Storage of orings
Carefully and appropriately chosen storage conditions for O-rings are of great importance in preventing the harmful effects of factors that can negatively affect their physical properties.
What should you pay attention to when storing O-rings?
Temperature
In the warehouse, the temperature should be below +25°C (ideally below +15°C). Storing rubber seals at higher temperatures significantly shortens their lifespan. During the heating season, regulate the temperature in the warehouse so that it does not exceed +25°C, ensuring the O-rings maintain their durability. Do not store them near a heat source. Storing rubber products at low temperatures usually does not have a harmful effect on them. Some products may stiffen, so to prevent deformations or damage, handle with care and ensure the product reaches a temperature of +30°C before installation.
Humidity
Maintain optimal humidity in the storage area. High humidity causes condensation on O-rings, which can be harmful, leading to softening or cracking. To eliminate the risk of condensation, the relative humidity where they are stored should be less than 70% (or below 65% if polyurethanes are also stored in the warehouse).
Oxygen and Ozone
Rubber products should be protected from ozone-generating devices, which are harmful to them. To protect against the adverse effects of ozone, store O-rings away from electrical devices that can generate electrical discharges. Due to the potential increase in ozone levels in the photochemical process, the presence of exhaust gases in the storage area is not recommended. Vulcanized rubber products should be protected from airflow by storing O-rings in tightly closed containers.
Light Exposure
It is crucial to protect vulcanized rubber products from direct sunlight and artificial light emitting ultraviolet radiation. Both sunlight and artificial light contribute to the degradation of O-rings. It is recommended to store rubber products in opaque containers or shield windows with special red or orange screens.
Radiation
Vulcanized rubber products should be protected from ionizing radiation sources.
Deformation
To maintain product quality, store them in a way that prevents deformation from compression or stretching. Rubber products not subjected to constant stretching should be stored in their original packaging to prevent permanent shape changes. Rather than hanging O-rings, it's better to lay them flat to minimize the risk of deformation. To avoid folding or twisting, large diameter seals should be stacked forming three equal loops.
Oils, Solvents
Even brief contact with rubber products and solutions, solid substances, solvents, oils, greases, or corrosive fluids can adversely affect their lifespan.
Metal Contact
Manganese, iron, copper, or copper alloys are harmful to vulcanized rubber products. To protect seals from the harmful effects of metals, store them separately and additionally protect them with a layer of paper or polyethylene.
Contact with Liquid and Semi-liquid Materials
Avoid contact with liquid and semi-liquid materials, especially solvents, unless they are part of the product and packaged in the manufacturer's original packaging. Powder Coating Contact Insect infestation can negatively affect rubber properties. The powder coating should contain only components that do not have a negative impact on rubber properties.
Contact with Other Products
Rubber-Metal Bonds
Products with metal parts should not come into contact with other rubber products. Ensure that the preservative used on the metal does not negatively affect the rubber or weaken the bond.
Stock Rotation
How to clean stored O-rings?
The best cleaning agent for thorough cleaning of rubber products is soapy water. Products containing abrasive materials, organic solvents (such as carbon tetrachloride, hydrocarbons, trichloroethylenes) are most harmful. All cleaned products should be dried at room temperature. Sun drying is prohibited.
Recycling and Disposal
Worn-out O-rings should be disposed of at a special rubber disposal facility, where they will be incinerated. Avoid disposing of rubber products in ways that can negatively impact the environment. Familiarize yourself with general waste management regulations.
DIN 7716 Standard defines guidelines for storing, cleaning, and maintaining rubber products.
If you have any questions, feel free to contact our specialists at +48 22 292 40 24 or +48 505 16 03 03, via email (power|powerrubber.com| |Power|PowerRubber.com), or through our contact form.