Any manufacturing operation that moves product through some kind of tubing requires a seal. With so many variables in each operation, sometimes it seems that no individual seal will fit the wide range of requirements; that’s where specialty custom seals come in. Real Seal has expertise in creating unique solutions for equally unique problems, ensuring quality operations and results. Specialty seals are designed to meet different engineering challenges with unique shapes and design.
X-Rings
Standard o-rings have a circular cross section, creating a large mating surface. In some operations with low speed oscillation or reciprocation the basic o-ring may twist, which can cause leakage and damage to the ring as well as the surfaces it is mated to.
When pressure is exerted upon the x-ring, four contact points are made due to the x-shaped profile. Because of the x-ring’s design, it requires less compression to seal the surfaces it is attached to. Another advantage is that the seam of the x-ring is between its mating surfaces; some o-rings may have leakage problems in this parting section, but with x-rings this problem is virtually eliminated.
Most commonly used in reciprocating applications, x-rings have reduced friction and have a better durability and anchoring for this kind of motion. In some rotational settings a normal o-ring will also experience warping, x-rings are recommended for these applications, as well. To ensure quality operations in reciprocating and rotational operations use these kinds of specialty rings.
Square Rings
Originally, square rings were designed as a cheaper alternative to o-rings, but as the cost of o-rings has fallen square rings have been out-competed in dynamic operations. Square rings do still have their place in static operations or in places where costs must be kept to an absolute minimum. Static sealing with a square ring is perhaps the most effective when a high load force is required. Square rings are not recommended for operations with movement, as they are more prone to failure. So, in high load static operations specialty square rings will make sure that your operation is producing top quality.
Back-up Rings
Back-up rings aren’t used all on their own, but in conjunction with other seals, usually o-rings, to prevent extrusion and leakage. In high pressure applications a more rigid back-up ring is used to hold the o-ring in place while allowing it to continue to do its job of preventing leakage. Some back-up rings can also increase the temperature resistance for the o-ring, as well as friction resistance. Back-up rings are extremely important because they allow for more solutions in an application having issues with o-ring failure without having to retool the entire machine to compensate. Most back-up rings are designed to fit standard o-ring sizes, but more specialized back-up rings can be used for other kinds of sealers than o-rings, too. If your operation is suffering due to extrusion or leakage, a back-up ring can increase the quality and durability of your seal.
U-Rings and V-Rings
U-rings and V-rings are similar to o-rings in design, but have a U or V shaped groove in the counter-face of the ring. These rings have reduced wear and friction due to their unique shape, plus they can fit in some uniquely shaped joints that require a nonstandard sealing shape. Due to the groove in the ring some of these rings are also designed to reduce contamination and leakage.
O-Ring and Specialty Ring Experts
No matter what kind of application, Real Seal will have the expertise to point you in the direction of the correct type of sealing ring. Their twenty plus years of experience has given them the experience they need to make sure your operation is running at the highest quality and safety. They can make recommendations based on your needs and even design specialty custom rings if the operation calls for it. Contact Real Seal today!
