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Technical Guide

ORFS vs JIC Fittings: Sealing Method, Structure and Selection

A practical comparison of O-ring face seal and 37-degree flare hydraulic connections.

Prepared by: Wei Xing Machinery Technical Team

Technical content for hydraulic component selection and sourcing reference.

Introduction

ORFS and JIC fittings are both common hydraulic connection types, but they seal in different ways. Selection should be based on the drawing, mating interface, pressure, vibration, temperature, fluid compatibility, installation space and maintenance requirements.

Quick Comparison Table

FeatureORFSJIC 37Β° Flare
Primary sealO-ring face seal37-degree flare metal-to-metal seal
Sealing surfaceFlat sealing faceMale cone and female flare seat
O-ringInstalled in a machined face grooveNo face O-ring as the primary seal
Thread functionMainly provides clamping forcePulls the flare surfaces together
Vibration suitabilityOften selected for leakage resistance and vibration performanceWidely used in serviceable hydraulic systems
MaintenanceInspect O-ring condition and face damageEasy to inspect flare surfaces
Common applicationsHydraulic hoses, tubes and OEM equipmentHydraulic tube and hose connections

How ORFS Fittings Seal

ORFS fittings use an O-ring face seal. The flat sealing face and the O-ring installed in a machined face groove create the primary seal, while the thread mainly supplies clamping force.

How JIC Fittings Seal

JIC fittings use a 37-degree flare metal-to-metal seal. The male cone contacts the female flare seat, and the connection does not use a face O-ring as the primary sealing element.

Structural Differences

ORFS requires a clean flat face and correct O-ring material. JIC requires compatible 37Β° flare geometry and undamaged cone and seat surfaces.

Installation Considerations

Do not mix sealing interfaces. Confirm cleanliness, alignment, O-ring condition for ORFS, flare condition for JIC and enough space for assembly tools.

Typical Applications

ORFS is often used where leakage resistance and vibration performance matter. JIC is common in hydraulic tube and hose connections and is easy to inspect during service.

When to Choose ORFS

Choose ORFS hydraulic fittings when the mating port or hose end specifies an O-ring face seal and the application prioritizes face sealing performance.

When to Choose JIC

Choose JIC flare fittings when the system specifies a 37Β° flare interface and service inspection is important.

Selection Checklist

  • Drawing and part number
  • Mating interface and thread
  • Pressure, vibration and temperature
  • Fluid compatibility
  • Installation space and maintenance requirements

FAQ

Can ORFS and JIC fitting ends connect directly?

No. Even where a thread size appears similar, an ORFS face-seal end and a JIC 37Β° flare end use different sealing geometry and should not be connected directly. Use a correctly specified adapter when conversion is required.

Does JIC use an O-ring?

A standard JIC 37Β° flare connection uses a metal-to-metal seal between the male cone and female flare seat, not a face O-ring as the primary seal.

Which fitting is better for vibration?

ORFS is often selected where leakage resistance and vibration performance are important, but the final choice depends on pressure, temperature, fluid compatibility and installation conditions.

Can ORFS and JIC be connected with an adapter?

Yes, a correctly specified adapter can connect ORFS and JIC interfaces when the sizes, sealing ends and application requirements are confirmed.

What information is needed before ordering?

Provide drawings, mating interface, pressure, vibration, temperature, fluid compatibility, installation space and maintenance requirements.

How can I identify the sealing interface?

Check whether the connection uses a flat O-ring face seal or a 37-degree flare seat, and verify it against drawings or equipment documentation.

Review ORFS hydraulic fittings and JIC flare fittings, or compare BSP vs NPT threads.

Need drawing-based selection support?

Send the drawing, mating interface and application requirements to Wei Xing Machinery.

Contact Wei Xing Machinery