While hydraulic connections that incorporate an O-ring face seal are the most reliable against leakage, it can still happen. Yet the cause is rarely the fitting itself. The primary contributors to hydraulic system leaks and how often they occur include:

O-ring face seal SAE J1453 fittings are popular in hydraulic lines onboard off road vehicles such as tractors, combines and other heavy equipment used in construction. Due to the frequent vibration and actuation of components in off-road vehicles, it is extremely important to reduce or eliminate the number of potential leak points and incidences of leakage. The SAE J1453 standard for ORFS fittings covers dimensions, threads, fitting and O-ring materials, and performance requirements of for use in hydraulic applications, as well as the interface of the O-ring face and nut portion of hose stem assembly.

System design is the first consideration for leak prevention in hydraulic systems. The right components must be selected to reduce the incidences of leaks and connection failures. Typically O-ring face seal fittings are the best or sometimes only practical choice. The following are attributes that should be taken in consideration when selecting system connections in the design phase.

ORFS Fittings Help Prevent Component Failure 

There are a variety of things that can lead to hydraulic component failure. However, the environment is the number one cause of these failures. Extreme temperatures are an example of a harmful environment for fittings. However, ORFS fitting can help to ensure failures due to these conditions do not occur.

O-ring face seal (ORFS) hydraulic fittings are a highly popular and reliable choice in hydraulic and tube connections. Well designed ORFS connections provide a seal that is highly reliable due to its elastomeric seal and is one of the best choices for a leak-free connection.

Your Connection is Only as Good as its O-ring

Case in point: A O-ring hydraulic fitting with a Buna-N O-ring has been stored in the back of the bin for an unknown period of time.  Let’s say it’s been there for years.  As is often the case, it’s no longer sealed in the original plastic bag.   Now what if that storage bin is in an outdoor tool shed, or a facility that does not have air-conditioning….in Tallahassee, Florida, where the average daily humidity is 80% in July.