Seated in a machined groove and compressed between two or more parts, an O-ring creates a tight seal at the interface. As fluid pressure increases, it deforms the elastomer against the groove walls, actually improving the seal up to a certain failure point. They are the most common and reliable seals in hydraulic cylinders, pipe flanges, and engine components.
Heard on the job
Make sure you lubricate the O-ring before sliding the piston in, or it will pinch and leak.
Also heard as
- toric joint