It can be a common point of confusion in engineering and design: O-rings, gaskets, and seals. While all of these components are designed to prevent leaks, their fundamental design, function, and ideal applications are very different. Making the right choice between them is crucial for your equipment’s performance, long-term reliability, and avoiding costly downtime. This […]
Hydraulic seals are the unsung heroes of countless industrial systems. While often overlooked, they play a critical role in converting fluid power into linear motion, ensuring the efficiency and reliability of your equipment. A seal failure can bring an entire operation to a halt, which is why choosing the right solution is essential for performance […]
Semiconductor and solar panel production runs on tight schedules. A single delay in the supply chain can slow down lines, raise costs, and create risk for downstream processes. During the COVID-19 labor shortage, a semiconductor manufacturer was facing a challenge that threatened their output and created a risk of costly delays. The manufacturer reached out […]
Valve and control systems face constant movement, heat, and pressure changes that can strain any sealing material. At 600°F and 1,000 psi, the conditions exceed what most standard seals can handle. Reliable performance in that environment depends on precise engineering and the right combination of materials. One of Marco Rubber & Plastics’ long-time valve and […]
Industrial water jet systems rely on precision sealing to contain and control extreme force. Operating at up to 60,000 psi, a single compromised seal can stop production, damage equipment, and drive up maintenance costs. A manufacturer of advanced water jet cutting equipment contacted Marco Rubber & Plastics after experiencing repeated seal failures in their piston […]
Using Custom Rubber Diaphragms Is a low-cost component costing you more than it’s worth? In many pressure-sensitive assemblies, the rubber diaphragm is overlooked until performance drops. Systems begin experiencing inconsistent pressure, premature wear, and unexpected chemical degradation. These are signs that a standard diaphragm isn’t cutting it anymore. Custom rubber diaphragms solve problems that off-the-shelf […]
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Marco Rubber & Plastics Appoints Chad Smith as New Chief Executive Officer Seabrook, NH — September 3, 2025 — Marco Rubber & Plastics (“Marco”) today announced the appointment of Chad Smith as Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately. Smith joins Marco after serving as CEO of Northern Wholesale Supply, where he led the […]
Your O-Ring Groove Design Checklist Some seal failures are easy to explain: the wrong material, poor chemical compatibility, or damage during installation. But then there are the frustrating failures. Those are the ones where the o-ring is the right size, the material matches the application, and yet … it leaks. Or it wears out too […]
FFKM O-Rings At Work in Critical Applications Downtime is rapidly getting more expensive. In the automotive sector alone, the cost of an unplanned shutdown has reached $2.3 million per hour. Across industries, that number continues to rise. In heavy industry, the cost of downtime is now four times what it was just five years ago. […]
The Shore durometer scale measures material hardness. In other words, it measures how resistant a material is to indentation. It’s one of the most important specs to understand when choosing rubber components like o-rings or gaskets. The scale helps engineers compare soft and hard materials across a variety of applications. Shore hardness is measured by […]
O-rings are one of the smallest parts in an air conditioning system, but they are also one of the most important. A failed o-ring can lead to refrigerant leaks, compressor damage, and costly repairs. There are some key factors that will ensure that AC o-rings work well in applications like HVAC or refrigeration. These include […]
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 […]
