Why use a custom-size Spliced and Vulcanized O-Ring?
Spliced and vulcanized O-rings are made from extruded cord stock that has been precisely cut and carefully bonded together. Most O-rings are compression or injection molded as one piece. A spliced and vulcanized O-ring is only recommended for static applications.
The critical process of making a vulcanized O-ring involves applying a bonding agent to the two ends of a cut length of cord stock and then joining the ends together in a mold at a high temperature for a specific period of time. The vulcanizing process forms a molecular bond necessary to create a strong joint.
There are advantages and limitations of spliced and vulcanized O-rings. Such O-rings can be used when molded O-rings cannot be used due to larger than normal or non-standard dimensions, when you only need a few pieces of a non-standard size, or when you need an O-ring right away and can’t wait for the lead time with molded production.They are a good choice for static sealing applications or where the O-ring does not come in contact with moving parts. But vulcanized O-rings may not be a cost effective choice for very large quantities.
Many options include different elastomers and durometers, cross sections and cut angles, depending on your specifications. The Butt Cut is a 90-degree cut where the cord is cut straight from top to bottom. The Skive Cut (usually an additional charge) is a 45-degree angle cut and also called the Bevel Cut. This cut is used in order to have more of the material’s surface in contact at the joint to make it stronger.
If you need an odd-sized O-ring fast, or in limited quantities, spliced and vulcanized can solve your problem quickly.