Sealing
O-Ring Squeeze Explained: What the Percentage Means
Learn what O-ring squeeze means, how it is calculated and why groove geometry, duty and application type matter.
Use the calculation tool
Open O-Ring Groove Calculator →Definition
Squeeze describes how much the O-ring cross-section is compressed by the installed gland geometry. A simple nominal expression compares the free cross-section with the available gland depth in the squeeze direction.
Why one squeeze target does not fit every application
Static, reciprocating, rotary and face-seal applications do not share identical design constraints. Friction, pressure, material, temperature, tolerances and extrusion risk can change the acceptable gland geometry.
Use squeeze with gland fill and stretch
Squeeze should not be reviewed alone. Gland fill, circumferential stretch or compression, extrusion gap and backup-ring requirements can all influence whether a groove is practical.
Related standards
DraftFit guides are engineering educational content and do not replace the controlled standard, project specification or responsible-engineer review.