In challenging industrial environments from aerospace to oil and gas, O-rings are often the only choice for sealing solutions. But while they are essential to many systems, they also have limitations.This is where backup rings prove indispensable.
Here we discuss how O-rings and backup rings work together and the benefits of customised sealing solutions.
What’s the difference between backup rings and O-rings?
O-rings are a circular elastic loop that acts as the primary sealing element, creating a leak-proof barrier between components such as pipes, tubes, pistons, and cylinders. Backup rings serve as support, protecting the O-ring from damage. Backup rings are often associated with O-rings as their main function is to minimise extrusion, which is especially important in high pressure environments.
Since backup rings are made from sturdier materials like PTFE and PEEK, they help in maintaining the elastomeric seal in place. However, backup rings are still flexible enough to fill the extrusion gap. Since O-rings tend to extrude when exposed to high temperature and pressure, backup rings are essential to maintain the efficiency of O-rings.
Why high performance applications need both
In demanding environments, O-rings alone can’t withstand extreme pressures, aggressive chemical exposure and wide temperature fluctuations. But when paired with backup rings, they work together to create a sealing solution that’s greater than the sum of its parts. Here’s why it’s essential for your high performance application to have both:
Complementary properties for high performance
While the O-ring provides initial sealing, the backup ring reinforces its function, especially under harsh conditions. This synergy between the two components creates superior performance and amplifies the overall effectiveness of your sealing system.
Pressure management across operational extremes
In high pressure systems, the O-ring handles the initial sealing at lower pressures and as the pressure increases, the backup ring prevents the O-ring from extruding by helping to evenly distribute pressure. As a result, the O-ring maintains its shape and function.
Extended life in harsh conditions
By utilising both O-rings and backup rings, you’ll see a significantly longer lifespan than O-rings alone. As well as consistent performance. Backup rings play a role in reducing the effects of friction and wear on O-rings, minimising abrasion. They also act as a thermal barrier, protecting O-rings from excessive heat. Therefore you’ll get reliable operation even in demanding environments with pressure and heat fluctuations.
Reduce the risk of seal failure
When you choose durable materials like PEEK for your backup rings, this prevents extrusion and deformation of O-rings in high pressures and temperatures. This reinforcement ensures your sealing system remains effective, minimising the risk of leaks and system failures.
Benefits of choosing custom seals over standard
One of the advantages of working with AFT Fluorotec is that we’ll provide a customised solution that works in any environment - even in cases where other suppliers were unable to.
Here are some of the many benefits of choosing a bespoke sealing system over standard seals:
- Perfect fit for specific applications - standard seals fit a broad range of applications but custom seals match the exact dimensions of requirements of your application, ensuring a more reliable seal.
- Improved durability - custom seals can be made from specialised materials that are better suited to challenging conditions. For instance, in environments where machinery and equipment face extreme conditions that can lead to wear and tear over time.
- Cost-effective long-term solution - although custom sealing may involve a higher initial cost, you’ll have significant savings in the long run and a better quality, longer lasting seal.
- Enhanced efficiency and performance - through tailor made designs and custom materials, we create seals that contribute to more efficient energy systems.
- Increased safety - leaks and malfunctions can pose serious risks in industries dealing with high pressures, temperatures or hazardous materials. Custom seals lower those risks through better suited sealing capabilities and added system safety.
- Flexibility for unique requirements - a one size fits all approach to sealing doesn't fit every system while flexible and customised sealing solutions work well in unique system designs or unusual environmental conditions.
Need a high performance sealing solution?
It’s imperative to have a reliable and efficient sealing system, especially in high performance environments. We have been manufacturing high performance plastic parts for over two decades and have the expertise and knowledge to supply you with the perfect part or component for your needs. By investing in excellent quality backup rings and O-rings, you’ll ensure your systems run smoothly and effectively in the long run.
Contact us today to find out more about our custom sealing solutions.
