O-Ring identification tool

ORID O-Ring Material Identifier

Identify common O-Ring materials without damaging the seal.

Product overview

Non-destructive material identification

The ORID (O-Ring Identifier) measures the rebound height of a weight dropped onto an O-Ring. The bounce varies with the material's properties, allowing differentiation among EPDM, Nitrile (Buna-N), FFKM and FKM/Viton®.

This non-destructive method is useful for verifying O-Ring materials during installation, checking for mislabelled O-Rings and sorting applications.

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Using your identifier

How to use the ORID

  1. Prepare the O-Ring

    Place the O-Ring on a stable, flat surface. Ensure it is within its rated shelf life and is undamaged.

  2. Release the weight

    Position the ORID tool vertically over the O-Ring. Raise the internal weight to the top of the tube, then release it onto the O-Ring.

  3. Read the first bounce

    Observe the height of the weight's first bounce. Compare it with the calibrated markings on the ORID tool to determine the material.

Rebound reference

Compare the first bounce with the tool's calibrated markings.

Relative first-bounce heights for the four O-Ring materials
Bounce heightMaterial
HighestEPDM
Second highestNitrile (Buna-N)
Third highestFFKM
LowestFKM/Viton®

Before testing

Suitability and considerations

  • The ORID is calibrated for O-Rings with a hardness between 60 and 80 Durometer.
  • It is not suitable for identifying failed, damaged or out-of-date O-Rings.
  • Accurate readings depend on proper technique and a stable testing surface.