Similar to the sealing of an o ring, a quad ring is the next step in innovative sealing.
A four-lobed seal that provides twice the sealing surface compared to an o ring, less friction, and no spiral twist – music to every manufacturer’s ears.
A quad ring, also known as an x ring, can be used in reciprocating dynamic or rotary applications, as well as those operating in conditions of low pressure and low temperatures.
In addition, a significant benefit of a quad ring is that we can use them in narrower grooves with ease, as well as in standard o-ring grooves. This opens up the possibilities of how and where these sealing solutions can be used in applications and how they can continue to maintain high levels of performance.
Quad ring definition
When we look at the question, “What is a quad ring?” we know it is a four-lobed seal that works by placing a diametrical squeeze in a right-angled groove.
Seen by some in the industry as an innovative alternative to the o ring, quad rings can provide twice the sealing surface and better performance when used in the right application.
Also known as an x-ring, this type of seal is often recommended for low-speed applications as it provides lower friction levels.
Providing two sealing surfaces, the quad ring offers a double the-seal action, which can provide considerable peace of mind in critical applications.
The standard material is 70 durometer nitrile.
Quad rings are suitable for:
- High-pressure systems
- Dynamic applications such as pumps and motors (as they prevent twisting and extrusion)
- Vacuum applications
- Lubricating systems
- Automotive components
- Regulated industries, such as the pharmaceutical sector
- Chemical processing equipment
Quad ring materials
Quad rings can be manufactured using a variety of material compounds and elastomers, such as:
- NBR
- FPM
- EPDM
- VMQ
- PTFE
It’s essential that you analyse the material and test that it is suitable for your application and can withstand the harsh chemicals, range of temperature, and pressure fluctuations that it may possibly be exposed to.
If you’re looking for further information, advice, and tailored sealing solutions to meet your requirements, make sure to get in touch with a member of the SSP team today.
Supporting you with all of your sealing solutions we have seals and gaskets available for all applications.
Give us a call on 01535 274 776; we’d be happy to help.
Advantages of quad rings
- Offer a high level of stability in dynamic applications
- They have deeper standard grooves, making them suitable for applications with reduced friction
- Due to their design, they have more sealing capacity
- They offer superior design and functionality, making them suitable for high-pressure environments.
- They are more resistant to spiral failure compared to o-rings as they prevent the seal from bunching and failing.
- They require less force to maintain, which means less friction is generated, leading to a longer lifespan, which helps to maintain costs.
- Quad rings also have better lubricant retention, again minimising the friction element and extending its lifespan.
- They have better stress distribution, which allows them to handle varying pressures more effectively.
- They help to reduce component wear and tear, leading to reduced maintenance on your behalf.
- It can support a lowering in operational costs.
- Greater resistance to extrusion and pressure as quad rings won’t twist or rotate like o rings, providing a more effective seal in certain applications.
- Quad rings are available in various sizes and dimensions, meaning you will always be able to achieve the perfect seal.
- Another quad ring advantage is that they perform well within significant temperature ranges.
- However, one of the biggest quad-ring benefits is that they are free from mould parting lines and blemishes, which is a significant quad-ring advantage as it means there is no effect on the sealing lips, providing more stability in dynamic applications.
Drawbacks to opting for the quad-ring
- The quad ring is not always suitable for pressures greater than 500 psi.
- Quad rings can be more expensive to purchase due to the manufacture and design – however, when we weigh this against the reduced maintenance and higher levels of reliability they offer, they can be seen as more cost-effective in the long run.
O ring suppliers UK
Overall, the quad ring is a good option if you need a high-strength, high-performance, low-friction solution. Extending the component’s lifespan, the benefits of the quad ring allow for better pressure distribution, which helps reduce the risk of deformation and sealing failure.
As an o-ring supplier based in Leeds, at SSP, we offer a range of seals and o-rings suitable for various applications.
From standard to customised we provide great industrial sealing solutions that offer enhanced performance and durability.
Contact us today to find out more.
