Seals and O-rings

Prevent particle, vapor and fluid losses and leakage with our range of seals and O-rings. Providing joints with strength and stability without impacting pressure, they can be used in a number of professional settings, including automotive, aerospace, and general engineering.

Online and ready to ship across North America, explore our comprehensive selection of seals and O-rings from leading brand names, including RS PRO, Hubbell, and APM.

Stocking only high-quality products, you can have complete peace of mind when you buy components from RS.

What are seals and O-rings?

Seals and O-rings are specially designed parts that sit between two components that require a tight seal. O-rings are available in a whole host of diameters and thicknesses, whilst seals can be cut to the desired length for greater flexibility.

How do O-rings and seals work?

Both seals and O-rings work by providing a tight seal between two separate components that require joining. Typically, they're used in environments where high-pressure is applied and a tight seal is needed to prevent leaks or drops in pressure as substances pass between components.

As the name suggests, O-rings are in the shape of an 'O', whilst seals are in a strip of cord that can be cut to the required measurement.

What are seals and O-rings used for?

Because seals and O-rings help seal joints, they're most commonly found in pumps, cylinders, connectors, and valves and are typically used in more industrial settings.

Before buying a seal or O-ring, you'll want to make sure you're purchasing one that is adequate for the environment. Some have a high tolerance for working under high-pressure and force, as well as in higher temperatures. Other types are more resistant to corrosion if working with certain chemicals or caustic gases.

If you're unsure which seal or O-ring is required for your application, contact our friendly technical advisers. They'll give you all the information and advice you need to help you choose the right product for the job.

What are O-rings and seals made from?

When choosing seals and O-rings, it's not just getting the right dimension and thickness that's important, but the material too. Because of the different qualities offered by the various materials, picking the right sort for the task is imperative if you want a product that's both efficient and reliable over time.

Viton

Viton is a popular alternative to nitrile seals and O-rings. Made from fluorocarbon rubber, they're excellent for withstanding extreme heat and don't corrode when exposed to strong chemicals.

Nitrile

Used in a wide range of applications, nitrile seals and O-rings are perhaps the most common and most popular material, thanks to the versatility it affords across distinct environments. Seen as an all-purpose material, nitrile seals and O-rings offer adequate sealing properties against water, oils, propane, and some corrosive fluids.

However, nitrile doesn't respond well to high temperatures or pressure.

Stainless or carbon steel

Metal seals and O-rings are most used when a hard-wearing gasket is required. Typically found in heavy machinery or industrial sectors, they offer optimal reliability and durability under high temperatures and pressure, although they're not suitable for applications that require more malleable seals.

Rubber

Rubber is the most versatile material and can be found in O-rings and seals in several functions that require less specific or demanding pressures.

Silicone

Providing good resistance to acids and water, as well as weathering and variable temperatures, silicone seals and O-rings are suitable for outdoor and exposed environments.

Fluorocarbon elastomer

Fluorocarbon elastomer seals and O-rings are extremely durable and offer good resistance to great temperature swings. Providing flexibility, durability, and resistance to oils, acids, UV damage, and oxidation, they can be used in myriad applications and environments.

Order your seals and O-rings from RS

Get your seals and O-rings from one of North America's leading distributors of hardware, tools and electronic components.

From domestic installations to industrial use, our broad range will provide you with the sealing solution you need. All our products are made from high-quality materials for reliability and durability so you know your work will last.

Alongside our helpful team of technical advisers, we've also created our free expert hub. Providing you with all the information you need for your next project, it's full of industry insights and news and useful hints and tips.