O-Ring Compression Force

O-ring compression force is the force required to compress an O-ring the amount necessary to maintain an adequate sealing line of contact. See the below compression force table along with the compression load tables in the links below. It is very important in some applications, particularly in face-type seals where the available compression load is limited. The factors that influence compression force for a given application, and a method of finding its approximate magnitude are explained in the section called O-Ring Applications.

Compression load tables included in the eHandbook are limited to 70 and 90 durometer materials. The full O-Ring Handbook ORD 5700 section 2.4.6 contains the curves generated by empirical data for 50, 60, and 80 Shore A durometers.

To use the eHandbook chart, you will need to know the O-ring midline circumference in inches, the O-ring cross section in inches, and the durometer.  First find the chart for the O-ring cross section size: 0.070”, 0.103”, 0.139”, 0.210” and 0.275”.   Next, locate the O-ring compression or squeeze on the x-axis of the chart.  Moving vertically to either the 70 or 90 durometer band, you will find the expected range of load in pounds per linear inch of O-ring. Multiplying this number by the O-ring circumference in inches, you are left with the approximate range of compressive force, in pounds. 

Compression Load Tables

• Compression Load by CS