Technical Resource
O-Ring Gland Design Guide
Gland design for static radial, static axial and dynamic reciprocating O-ring applications.
Static radial
Common fixed seal
The O-ring cross-section is squeezed radially in the groove between the inside diameter (ID) and outside diameter (OD) — the most common fixed-seal gland geometry.
Static axial
Face seals
The O-ring cross-section is squeezed axially in the groove, similar to a flat gasket — used for face-seal applications.
Dynamic reciprocating
Moving piston/cylinder
Reciprocating seals are used in applications that slide back and forth. This motion introduces friction, which creates design considerations different from static seals. The O-ring may be housed in a groove in the cylinder wall (rod seal) instead of a groove in the piston surface (piston seal) without any change in design limitations or seal performance.