Olympia Express Group Head Gasket PU U 500 – 95 Shore A, red
The group head gasket made of polyurethane with the classic U-500 profile, in the harder 95 Shore A version, colored red. It seals the transition between the portafilter and the brew group and maintains pressure during extraction. The durable option for anyone who uses their Cremina intensively. Also suitable for older Maximatic models with a 49 mm portafilter. Original part from Schwanden GL.
What makes this gasket special
95 Shore A: longer service life, pressure stable
Olympia designation: "Group head gasket PU U500 95 Sh A red". The 95 Shore A hardness (harder than the silicone version) ensures a significantly longer service life under pressure and temperature. Slightly firmer tamp feel when clamping, but more dimensionally stable over years. The material withstands temperature changes between standby and extraction without noticeable wear.
U-500 profile with Cremina and 49 mm Maximatic dimensions
Precisely matched to the Cremina brew group – and according to Olympia, also suitable for older Maximatic models with a 49 mm portafilter. When replacing, simply pull out the old gasket and insert the new one with light pressure.
At a glance
| Material |
Polyurethane (PU) |
| Hardness |
95 Shore A |
| Color |
Red |
| Profile |
U 500 |
| Compatibility |
Olympia Express Cremina, Cremina SL, older Maximatic with 49 mm portafilter |
| Origin |
Schwanden, Canton Glarus, Switzerland |
PU or Silicone – an honest comparison
PU 95 Shore A (red): durable, pressure stable
This gasket. Harder, more dimensionally stable under pressure, longer service life. For anyone who uses their Cremina daily and wants to replace it as late as possible.
Silicone (installed ex works): softer, supple
The silicone version (dimensions Ø57.9/48/6.8 mm) is the original installed ex works. Softer to insert, temperature-resistant, slightly shorter service life than PU. You can find it in the Olympia Express Collection.
Who this gasket is for
For all Cremina and Cremina SL owners who use their machine intensively and are looking for a durable gasket. Also for owners of older Maximatic models with a 49 mm portafilter.
Accessories suitable for maintenance
Silicone version as an alternative or for original factory setup: Silicone group head gasket in the Olympia Express Collection. Complete gasket set for major maintenance: also there. Shower screens and boiler caps: same collection. Cleaning powder: Machine and Grinder Cleaning Collection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference to the silicone version?
The 95 Shore A PU gasket is harder and more pressure-stable, leading to a longer service life. The silicone version is softer, more temperature-resistant, and corresponds to the Cremina's factory original. PU is ideal for frequent users, silicone for those who want to keep the factory setup.
Does the gasket fit the Maximatic?
Only on older Maximatic models with a 49 mm portafilter. Current Maximatic machines with a 54 mm portafilter require a different gasket. If in doubt: write to us with your year of manufacture.
When should I replace the gasket?
If water leaks from the portafilter during extraction or if the portafilter can no longer be clamped tightly. Typical replacement intervals for PU: 2–3 years with intensive use.
Where can I buy the gasket or see it live?
Online via coffeecoachingclub.ch. On-site in our showrooms in Bern (Gerberngasse 44, 3011 Bern) and Zurich (Hagenholzstrasse 50b, 8050 Zurich).
Roastery Tip
A 95 Shore A PU gasket is the honest choice for anyone who wants to use their Cremina for years without new maintenance appointments. A little more force when clamping, but significantly more dimensionally stable for longer. Our opinion, one of many.
