Why the Medical Industry Relies on O-Rings

O-rings are used in a range of different fields, and medicine is one industry that relies heavily on these small, circular components. When installed correctly, rubber seals can prevent leaks and keep healthcare professionals and patients safe. 

O-rings are commonly used in medical tools and applications, including pumps, ventilators, cylinders, connectors and drug delivery devices. So why are o-rings so effective in medicine? Read on to find out.

Safe for Human Use

Not all o-rings are suitable for human use, but there are specific seals that are made from medical-grade materials. Silicone is one of the main players, but fluoroelastomers and ethylene-propylenes may also common in medical accessories.

The term medical grade means they are biocompatible and won’t react if they come in contact with human tissues and bodily fluids. Medical-grade o-rings are hygienic, safe and support critical health processes to run without the risk of failure or harm. If they do come into contact with the human body, it is unlikely there will be adverse side effects for the skin or organs.

High-Chemical Tolerance

Quality materials will create a seamless seal between components. Medical-grade solutions will have a high tolerance for chemicals and gases. O-rings can be selected for their ability to withstand heat variations — between -85° to +400°F —another useful feature that makes them so heavily relied upon in the medical industry. 

As medicine is constantly evolving, seals need to be able to adapt to new technology, treatments and procedures. No matter what needs sealing and the type of pressure faced, there is a material to suit the rigorous demands of the job.

Flexible Sizing and Hardness

Seals come in standard sizes, but o-rings can be custom-made by a reputable, local supplier, helping to pave the way for innovation. 

As medical devices, IV components and implants get smaller, seals need to be created to match. With the flexibility of medical-grade materials such as silicone, even the tiniest o-rings can be created. The range of hardness is 10 to 80, and injection molding, compression molding and transfer molding are all possible. As a versatile material, the user has more control of installation and design. 

The Advantages of Silicone

As we have discussed, silicone is a common material used in medical seals. As a durable and readily available material, it can meet the requirements of the medical industry. Silicone can withstand sterilization, steam and a range of heavy-duty cleaning agents. 

Traditionally, silicone is clear, but colorants can be added to create visual appeal or to match other components. While this material is commonly found in hospitals and health practices, there are a few limitations. Silicone can be damaged when faced with concentrated acids and ketones and is not recommended for high-friction applications.

The Medical Industry and O-Rings

If you have ever come into contact with a medical device, chances are it relies on an o-ring. These circular parts can support a range of applications and are commonly found in pumps, face masks, cylinders and connectors.

Not just any seal will do, because they need to be able to withstand the demands of the medical industry. A high tolerance to chemicals, heat variations and gases is essential, and they need to be safe for human use. 

Silicone is one of the most widely used materials, as it is a flexible solution that is suitable in hospital and healthcare settings. O-rings may be small and simple looking, but when it comes to medicine, they are a component we couldn’t live without.