O-rings can come in virtually infinite different sizes, but most standard sizes don't have an inside diameter (ID) larger than around 25 inches. That's where specialty infinite diameter O-rings come in!
Many industries demand extremely large seals, and TKF Tech delivers! By either Continuous Molding, or Splice & Vulcanizing, TKF Tech can provide mold-less, infinitely large O-rings at competitive prices!
We can offer these infinitely large, "giant" O-rings in over 100 different compounds, while simultaneously eliminating the need for expensive custom molds and minimum order quantities.
TKF Tech strives to meet all customer service requests. If you need something that isn't listed below, feel free to get in touch with our engineering team and let them know what you require.
Continuous Molding is our preferred method for producing infinitely large O-rings. Using proprietary manufacturing methodologies, we are able to mold material in a continuous arc, allowing us to produce seamless, tight tolerance O-rings at any size with no additional mold costs.
Standard Vulcanization
The lowest cost option for an infinitely large O-ring is standard vulcanization. Standard vulcanization is a process in which a long cord of extruded or molded elastomeric material is cut, then the two ends are bonded together using a proprietary blend of a matching uncured elastomer and special curing agents. This produces a functional bond point that is sturdy, but not quite as refined as precision vulcanization or continuous molding. The tolerances of standard vulcanization are also typically not quite as tight as the other two options.
Advantages: Most cost effective option that provides a functional solution for static applications with lower pressure differentials.
Disadvantages: The bonds can have a visually inconsistent quality to them that does not effect functionality. These parts are not recommended for vacuum applications, high pressure applications, or Dynamic applications. Some materials, like FFKM, are not available.
Precision Vulcanization
The most common option for an infinitely large O-ring is precision vulcanization. Similar to standard vulcanization, precision vulcanization is a process in which a long cord of extruded or molded elastomeric material is cut, then the two ends are bonded together using a proprietary blend of a matching uncured elastomer and special curing agents. Using a proprietary method, the cross section of the entire O-ring is then buffed and refined to produce a uniform, visually consistent bond. It is also possible to achieve slightly tighter tolerances with precision vulcanization.
Advantages: Cost effective option that provides a functional solution for static applications with lower pressure differentials. Has a consistent manufacturing quality and good tolerances.
Disadvantages: These parts are not recommended for vacuum applications, high pressure applications, or Dynamic applications. Some materials, like FFKM, are not available.
Continuous Molding
Continuous Molding is a proprietary manufacturing technique that allows infinitely large O-rings to be manufactured using any cross section, any diameter, with a perfect contiguous surface. Continuous molding also allows infinitely large O-rings to be produced in any material, including perfluoroelastomer FFKM!
Advantages: High performance parts for any use! Able to produce infinitely large parts of any material type, even FFKM! The best choice for dynamic applications, high pressure applications, and vacuum applications. Indistinguishable from fully molded parts.
Disadvantages: Comparatively higher cost and longer lead times.
Please consult a TKF Tech Engineer about your specific application and we will use our decades of experience to formulate a solution that fits your need!
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