Seal and gasket failure can lead to significant issues in hydraulic systems and other applications. Here are some common causes of such failures:

### 1. **Material Degradation**
- **Description**: Exposure to chemicals, extreme temperatures, or UV radiation can degrade the material of seals and gaskets.
- **Impact**: This can lead to cracking, hardening, or softening, compromising their sealing ability.

### 2. **Improper Installation**
- **Description**: Incorrect installation techniques, such as misalignment or improper torque, can stress seals and gaskets.
- **Impact**: This may cause uneven compression or damage during assembly, leading to leaks.

### 3. **Overcompression**
- **Description**: Applying excessive force during installation can compress seals or gaskets beyond their design limits.
- **Impact**: Overcompression can lead to deformation and loss of sealing effectiveness.

### 4. **Fluid Contamination**
- **Description**: Contaminants such as dirt, debris, or incompatible fluids can compromise the integrity of seals and gaskets.
- **Impact**: Contamination can lead to wear, swelling, or chemical breakdown of the sealing materials.

### 5. **Temperature Extremes**
- **Description**: Operating in environments with extreme heat or cold can affect seal and gasket performance.
- **Impact**: High temperatures can cause softening or thermal degradation, while low temperatures can lead to brittleness and cracking.

### 6. **Mechanical Wear**
- **Description**: Constant movement or friction can wear down seals and gaskets over time.
- **Impact**: Mechanical wear can result in thinning or surface damage, leading to leaks.

### 7. **Pressure Fluctuations**
- **Description**: Sudden changes in pressure within the system can stress seals and gaskets.
- **Impact**: Pressure spikes can lead to failure, especially if the sealing material is not rated for such variations.

### 8. **Improper Fluid Selection**
- **Description**: Using fluids that are not compatible with the seal or gasket material can lead to chemical attack.
- **Impact**: This can cause swelling, hardening, or degradation of the sealing materials.

### 9. **Aging and Fatigue**
- **Description**: Over time, seals and gaskets can naturally deteriorate due to aging and repeated stress cycles.
- **Impact**: Aging can lead to loss of elasticity and sealing ability, increasing the likelihood of failure.

### 10. **Environmental Conditions**
- **Description**: Harsh environmental factors, such as humidity, exposure to ozone, or corrosive substances, can impact seal and gasket longevity.
- **Impact**: These conditions can accelerate wear and lead to premature failures.

### Conclusion

Understanding the common causes of seal and gasket failure is essential for preventing issues in hydraulic systems and other applications. By addressing these factors through proper selection, installation, and maintenance practices, you can enhance the lifespan and reliability of seals and gaskets, ultimately reducing downtime and maintenance costs.
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