AS568 O-ring Sizing Chart

In an AS568 O-ring sizing chart, dash numbers are identification codes used to define specific O-ring sizes. Each dash number corresponds to a unique combination of inside diameter (ID) and cross section (CS) dimensions for rubber O-rings and sealing gaskets. These dash numbers typically appear in the format -001, -112, -214, or -325, and they are widely recognized across industrial sealing applications.

The dash number system makes it easy to specify and communicate O-ring sizes without needing to list detailed dimensional measurements each time. When an engineer specifies an AS568 dash number, the corresponding O-ring dimensions are already defined by the standard. This ensures consistent manufacturing tolerances and allows suppliers to produce compatible rubber O-rings, elastomer seals, and gasket components for the same size designation.

Dash numbers are grouped into ranges based on cross section size families, meaning that several dash numbers may share the same cross section while having different inside diameters. This structured system simplifies groove design and sealing calculations, making it easier for engineers to design reliable sealing systems using standard O-ring and gasket dimensions.

An AS568 O-ring sizing chart typically includes several critical dimensions used to identify standard O-ring sizes. The most important measurements are the O-ring inside diameter (ID) and the O-ring cross section (CS). These two values define the physical geometry of the rubber O-ring and determine how it will compress inside a sealing groove.

The inside diameter (ID) represents the measurement across the interior of the O-ring, while the cross section (CS) refers to the thickness of the O-ring material itself. Together, these two measurements determine how the O-ring fits into a gland or groove and how much compression occurs when the seal is installed. Proper compression is essential for maintaining reliable sealing performance in applications involving fluids, gases, or vacuum systems.

Many AS568 O-ring charts also include the outside diameter (OD) as a reference dimension. However, the OD is not the defining specification used to determine compliance with the AS568 standard. Instead, it is calculated from the inside diameter and cross section. While the OD can be useful for visual identification or rough comparison, engineers should always rely on ID and CS measurements when selecting rubber O-rings and gasket seals.

In the AS568 O-ring standard, compliance is defined by the inside diameter and cross section dimensions, not by the outside diameter. This design approach ensures that O-rings will properly fit standardized groove dimensions and maintain the correct compression needed for effective sealing.

The outside diameter (OD) of an O-ring is derived mathematically by adding twice the cross section to the inside diameter. Because OD is calculated rather than directly specified, it may vary slightly depending on manufacturing tolerances or measurement methods. For this reason, OD is typically included in an O-ring sizing chart only as a reference dimension.

When selecting rubber O-rings, elastomer seals, or gasket components, engineers should always verify the AS568 dash number, inside diameter, and cross section to ensure compatibility with the groove design. Relying solely on outside diameter can lead to incorrect seal selection, resulting in improper compression, leakage, or premature seal failure.

AS568 sizing standards apply to O-rings and gaskets manufactured from a wide range of elastomer materials. The sizing chart defines the physical dimensions of the seal, but the material itself is selected based on the application environment, chemical exposure, temperature range, and pressure conditions.

Common elastomer materials used with AS568 O-ring sizes include Nitrile (Buna-N), EPDM, FKM (Viton), Silicone, Fluorosilicone, HNBR, and high performance FFKM perfluoroelastomers. Each material provides different performance characteristics. For example, Nitrile rubber offers excellent oil resistance, EPDM provides strong resistance to water and steam, and FKM materials are commonly used for high temperature and chemical resistant sealing applications.

Selecting the correct rubber compound and O-ring material is just as important as choosing the correct AS568 size. Factors such as chemical compatibility, compression set resistance, temperature limits, and regulatory requirements may influence the final material choice. Engineers often reference material datasheets, TDS documents, and test reports to confirm that a particular rubber O-ring or gasket will perform reliably in the intended environment.

While AS568 O-ring sizes cover a large range of standard dimensions, some applications require custom O-rings, non-standard rubber seals, or specialty gasket components. Equipment manufacturers may design unique sealing grooves that do not match standard dash numbers, or an application may require a specialized cross section for improved sealing performance.

Canyon Components can support both standard AS568 O-rings and custom molded elastomer seals. Custom O-rings can be manufactured in a wide range of elastomer materials, including Nitrile, EPDM, Silicone, Fluorosilicone, FKM, HNBR, and high performance FFKM compounds designed for extreme chemical or temperature environments. Custom solutions may also include special durometers, color coding, or regulatory compliant compounds for industries such as medical devices, food processing, semiconductor manufacturing, and aerospace systems.

In addition to custom sizing, engineers can provide guidance on O-ring groove design, elastomer compatibility, sealing performance, and material selection. Whether you need a standard AS568 dash size O-ring, a European metric equivalent, or a completely custom rubber gasket, Canyon Components can help identify the optimal sealing solution for your application.