Gow-Joule effect

The Gow-Joule effect is the tendency of elastomers to contract when heated if they are under tension. Elastomers that are not under tension do not see this effect.

The Gow-Joule effect is important in o-ring seal design, where the seals can be mounted in a peripherally compressed state in hot applications to prolong life. ^[1]

References

1. ^ Martini, Leonard J. (1984). Practical Seal Design, P.233. CRC. ISBN 978-0824771669.