Choosing the right high-quality ring type joint is essential. It has to be able to withstand both high temperatures and pressure. In this post, we will look at how you can choose the right type for your needs.
What is Ring Type Joint?
So, as Ring Type Joint explained, this gasket is forged in one piece to fit into the RTJ flange’s machined groove. If you were to take a cross-section of these gaskets, they would either be oval or octagonal in shape. These joints are typically used in applications where high temperatures and high pressure is present.
It is most commonly used in the petrochemical and oil industries – from the drilling of the oil to storing it in refineries.
How Does it Work?
The ring is placed in the hexagonal groove that is on the front of the flange. It is then compressed by tightening the bolts so that the seal is tight. This makes a metal seal that is extremely strong and resistant to pressure.
Types of Ring Type Joints Gasket
You get three different types here:
- R
- RX
- BX
The R type is further classified by the shape when a cross-section is taken – oval or hexagonal.
R
Initially this would have fallen under the oval category. However, newer models can also be hexagonal. The latter provides a far better seal. The flange rating for use with the R type is Class 150 – 2500.
RX
These can be swapped out for the R type as they will fit the same sizes of grooves. This is deliberate to allow for greater versatility. There is a difference, though. This model is wider than an R type. Which means that the space between to two surfaces will be slightly wider as well.
They are thus not suitable when you need a very tight face-to-face fit. However, it does make the seal more effective and will be useful when shock loadings, vibrations, etc. are an issue. They will fit up to Class 5000.
BX
These are more specialised in nature and not interchangeable with the other two types. They are made for API 6 BX flange types with a class rating of between 2000 and 20000 PSI. There is a hole in the ring designed to help equalise the pressure on either side of it.
The ring’s pitch diameter is a little bigger than that of the groove it fits into. This makes preloading it possible and ensures that the seal is pressure energised. With this type, you need to make sure that the separation from face-to-face is uniform around the whole outside.
Identifying Your Gasket
This is simple enough – it will be marked with the name or trademark of the manufacturer and a gasket number. Look just before this number, and you will see which type it is. The material it has been made out of is printed after this number.
Conclusion
It is important to choose the right type for the right application and to look for a high-quality option. If you do not, the seal will not hold for long at all.
Specialist Sealing Products offers high quality sealing products such as Gaskets, RTJs, Sealing Rings, Insulation sets and other sealing products for business needs. Contact us and place your orders today.
