In many systems, o-ring failure is a lubrication issue. O-ring lubrication is central to seal performance, especially during installation and in dynamic systems. A compatible lubricant can prevent damage, reduce friction, and improve long-term sealing integrity. However, not all lubricants work with every elastomer. Choosing the wrong one can shorten seal life or lead to […]
Accurate o-ring sizing is essential for seal performance, longevity, and system reliability. Undersized or oversized o-rings can leak, wear out early, or fail under pressure. Knowing how to measure an o-ring accurately helps ensure better sealing, longer life, and fewer headaches. To properly size an o-ring, you need three critical measurements: inside diameter (ID), cross […]
How Tight Tolerances Solve Tough Sealing Problems “Close enough” doesn’t cut it in sealing applications where performance and reliability are critical. When seals fail, often the issue is not the material or the environment but the fit. That comes down to tolerances. O-ring tolerances control how much a part can vary in size while still […]
New Capabilities, Same Commitment: Marco Group Welcomes Colonial Seal Company We’re excited to announce that Marco Group has added oil seals to our growing product portfolio through the acquisition of Colonial Seal Company. Colonial is a specialty distributor of oil seals, o-rings, gaskets, and shaft seals, serving a diverse range of customers across pharmaceutical, industrial, […]
Avoid Downtime with Smarter O-Ring Inventory How fast do you notice when an o-ring fails? Odds are, you notice incredibly quickly. Your seal fails. Downtime ensues. Now, how long does it take to get the o-ring replaced? Or, if it is a new design, how long does it take to get o-rings in the first […]
Why Chemical Compatibility Matters in Seals Seals may be small, but they play a massive role in keeping industrial systems running smoothly. Seals must withstand exposure to various chemicals without degrading in chemical processing, pharmaceuticals, aerospace, food production, and several other applications. If the wrong seal material is used, the results can range from minor […]
How To Achieve Low-Cost Tooling in Industrial Sealing When it comes to custom rubber- and plastic-sealing solutions, the right tooling approach can save time, money, and production headaches. Many manufacturers struggle with expensive molds, rigid processes, and long lead times that don’t align with their actual needs. At Marco Rubber & Plastics, we specialize in […]
Why Material Selection Can Make or Break Your Seal It’s easy to underestimate the importance of sealing material selection—until your seal fails, and you’re stuck with downtime and costly replacements. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Whether it’s avoiding pitfalls like choosing solely on price or understanding critical factors like chemical resistance, it’s […]
Why High-Temperature Matters When Choosing a Seal Material We often say, “Extreme temperatures are tough on seals,” but why does temperature so dramatically impact seal integrity? Some key physical factors influence how temperature interacts with the seal material. These interactions can ultimately lead to seal breakdown and failure and, of course, a large, expensive, and […]
Complete Guide to Installing Seals in the Field: Packing List & Pro Tips When it comes to installing seals in the field, preparation is everything. A well-organized, well-stocked field kit can make all the difference, whether you’re handling a quick repair or a complex installation. Being out in the field comes with its own set […]
Cost Efficiency Without Compromise: The Value of Custom Seal Kits and Stocking Programs How much is downtime costing your business? Spoiler: it’s likely more than you think. From unexpected production halts to last-minute overnight shipping fees, inefficiencies add up. That is where solutions like custom seal kits and stocking programs come into play. A seal […]
Good, Better, Best: Choosing the Right Elastomer Compound for Your Application Remember the story of Goldilocks? Finding something that’s “just right” can be a challenge, whether it’s porridge, beds, or sealing compounds. Some materials might be too costly for your needs, while others might not offer the “just right” amount of durability. To help you […]
