Applications and Technical Requirements for Rubber X-Rings

X-ring, also known as Quad ring, are a type of sealing solution widely used in various industrial and automotive applications. The design(refer to ISO 3601 and SAE J200) allows for better distribution of pressure and minimizes the risk of twisting during installation.

Main parameters and performance

1）Working Pressure Range Of X-Ring:
Dynamic Sealing:
Reciprocating motion: ≤5 MPa (without backup ring); ≤30 MPa with a backup ring.
Rotary motion: ≤5 MPa (with a backup ring).
Static Sealing:
Static seal: ≤5 MPa (without backup ring); ≤40 MPa with a backup ring.

2）Sealing Performance:
The X-ring’s unique design reduces friction and rolling in dynamic applications, providing enhanced sealing performance. This is particularly important for high-speed rotary applications where the seal needs to resist wear and tear over extended periods.

3）Resistance to Twisting:
One of the key advantages of X-rings over O-rings is their ability to resist twisting and rolling, which can cause seal failure in dynamic applications. X-rings maintain better stability and sealing performance, especially in reciprocating motions.

Applications of X-Rings

1）Hydraulic Systems:

The X-ring (or quad ring) is one of the most commonly used seals in hydraulic cylinders and is a typical lip seal. Whether used for pistons or piston rods, it provides excellent sealing performance. 
At low pressures, the X-ring relies on the interference deformation of its lips to create a seal, and since the contact area is small, friction is relatively low. 
As pressure increases, the lips undergo elastic deformation, causing stretching, compression, and bending stresses to rise. This leads to an automatic increase in radial sealing force, and the contact length with the sealing surface expands. Eventually, the entire axial length of the X-ring contacts the sealing surface, ensuring reliable sealing even under high-pressure conditions.

2) Automotive Industry:

X-rings are applied in various automotive components such as brake systems, water valve, and power steering units. Their design allows for better resistance to twisting and ensures a longer lifespan in these critical systems.

3) Pneumatic Equipment:

In pneumatic actuators and compressors, X-rings provide enhanced sealing, reducing the risk of air leakage. Their ability to maintain a good seal under low pressure makes them suitable for pneumatic systems.

4) Medical Devices:

In medical equipment, X-rings are used for sealing applications that require low friction and high reliability, ensuring that the devices function efficiently with minimal fluid or air leakage.

OBT X-Ring Solution

X-rings can be manufactured from various rubber materials, including NBR (Nitrile Rubber), FKM (Viton), EPDM, and HNBR (Hydrogenated Nitrile Rubber). The choice of material depends on the application and the types of fluids or gases the seal will be exposed to.

We can offer lubrication on the X-Ring to reduce further the wear and friction.

For more information about X-rings and the applications, please contact us with.