18 Nov The Benefits of a Butt Cut O-Ring
O-rings are round, mechanical gaskets that create seals between two parts to prevent leaks. Made from materials like silicone or rubber, they hold up to significant pressure and other environmental stresses. I.B. Moore Manufacturing manufactures, fabricates, and distributes industrial rubber products—our experts are familiar with every type of O-ring available, including the butt cut.
Types of O-Rings
As we tell our clients, one O-ring size does not fit every application. We engineer these gaskets to suit specific industries, environments, and pressures:
- Round O-Rings: These are ideal for many applications due to their simplicity and versatility. They form excellent seals and are available in many sizes and materials.
- Square O-rings: Square O-rings work in more specialized situations; the larger surface area makes them ideal for high-pressure applications. They are less flexible than round O-rings and require precise fitting.
- X-Rings and Quad Rings: These O-rings aren’t circular, either; when viewed in cross-section, they have an “X” or “+” shape. The four lobes create multiple sealing surfaces on both sides of the ring.
- Butt Cut and Bevel Cut O-Rings: Cut from lengths of material instead of being molded, butt cut and bevel cut O-rings also have specific sealing capabilities.
Companies Manufacture O-rings In Different Ways
- Extrusion: Raw material is pushed through a ring-shaped die, taking its shape.
- Pressure and Transfer Molding: Heated rubber gets injected into open or closed mold cavities.
- Injection Molding: Heated pellets get liquefied and injected into a mold cavity. This method is ideal for high-volume O-ring production.
- Cutting: Extruded cord stock is cut and bonded.
What Is a Butt Cut O-Ring?
A butt cut O-ring is made by cutting a strip of rubber, shaping it into a circle, and joining the ends with a flat cut for a simple, secure seal. Manufacturers join the ends with an adhesive or heat bonding. Compare that to standard O-rings, which get molded into continuous circular shapes.
What Is a Bevel Cut O-Ring?
A bevel (sloped) cut O-ring is similar to the butt cut but with ends cut at an angle instead of flat. The angle makes it suitable for high-pressure situations. When manufacturers join the ends, the slant helps the ring compress evenly.
When to Use a Butt Cut O-Ring
We recommend butt cut O-rings for applications that are static or have lower stress demand for several reasons:
- Customization: Butt cut O-rings are easy to customize; by adjusting the cut length, we quickly and effectively customize them for non-standard or oversized applications.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Butt cut O-rings can be less expensive than molded O-rings or bevel-cut alternatives. We manufacture them from any length of elastomer material; they’re a cost-effective solution when precise or high-pressure seals aren’t required.
- Ease of Manufacturing: The manufacturing process involves minimal tooling and setup, contributing to shorter lead times.
- Simple Installation: The butt cut O-ring’s flat joint makes it easier to handle and install in many applications.
Butt Cut O-Ring vs. Bevel Cut O-Ring
Butt cut and bevel cut O-rings are both cut from an elastomer material, but the different cut styles give you unique performance characteristics.
Bevel Cut O-Rings
The sloped cut at the joint creates a more robust seal. It compresses more evenly, so bevel cut O-rings are effective when you need more sealing performance. They can handle more pressure during movement.
Butt Cut O-Rings
These work best in static applications where they won’t face high stress or movement. The straightforward manufacturing process makes them more affordable and can save you money on production costs. Butt cut is a practical choice for less demanding uses when high-pressure sealing isn’t required.
How Can I Decide Between Bevel Cut and Butt Cut O-Rings?
The best way to choose the correct O-ring for any sealing need is to consider the application’s demands. Butt cut O-rings are usually sufficient for low-pressure, static environments. A bevel cut or molded O-ring could provide better durability and performance for high-pressure and dynamic conditions.
We’ll Help You Find the Right O-Ring for Your Application
We offer an extensive selection of industrial rubber products, including butt cut O-rings. Our experienced team can guide you through the process, helping you determine the best material and cut for your application. Contact us in Lexington, KY, for nationwide service.