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Support rings

Protection and resistance for sealing gaskets

What are support rings and what is their function?

The support rings, also known as anti-extrusion rings, The sealing gaskets, are elements designed to prevent a part of the sealing gasket from entering the groove between two parts to be sealed. Their main function is to protect the seal of damage caused by extrusion due to high working pressure.

These rings are used as auxiliary elements O-rings or other sealing solutions, ensuring better performance in demanding conditions. Its use is common in hydraulic systems, where the pressure can generate deformations in the joints.

Features and design of the support rings

The support rings we offer at Epidor are designed to fit different sealing configurations. They are manufactured in flat or concave sections, depending on the geometry of the part to be protected. They are placed on the side opposite to the pressure to avoid the formation of a lip in the joint, by extrusion. In double-acting systems, it is recommended to install support rings on both sides of the sealing gasket.

Working pressures

Available in advanced technical materials such as:
  • Dynamic conditions: up to 250 bar.
  • Static conditions: up to 400 bar.

Materials available for support rings

At Epidor, we have back-up rings in a variety of materials, each selected to ensure optimum performance in specific applications.

Materials in stock and upon request

MaterialMain propertiesRecommended applications
Material:

PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene)

Main properties: High chemical and thermal resistance
Recommended applications: Applications with aggressive fluids and high temperatures
Material:

NBR (acrylonitrile butadiene rubber)

Main properties: Good oil resistance
Recommended applications: Hydraulic systems
Material:

Polyurethane (AU)

Main properties: High abrasion resistance
Recommended applications: Applications with high dynamic loads and high pressures
Material:

Polyamide (PA)

Main properties: High mechanical stability and wear resistance
Recommended applications: High load and moderate temperature systems
Material:

Polyacetal (POM)

Main properties: Good mechanical resistance
Recommended applications: High load and moderate temperature systems
Material:

PEEK (Polyetheretherketone)

Main properties: Widely used in pressures of 1000 bar and 1200 bar. Thermal range from -60 ºC to +250 ºC.
Recommended applications: Applications in environments with large thermal variations and high pressures

Applications of support rings

Back-up rings are used in applications where sealing rings can be affected by high pressures. For example:
  • Hydraulic systems → protection of seals in cylinders, valves and actuators.
  • Oil and gas industry → prevent extrusion in high pressure environments.
  • Aggressive fluid sealing systems → guarantee the integrity of seals in chemical environments.

FAQ's about support rings

What is the main function of the support rings?
They prevent the sealing gasket from entering the groove between two sealed parts, preventing extrusion damage under pressure.
In what type of systems should they be used?
They are recommended in hydraulic systems where O-rings or other sealing solutions are exposed to high pressures.
Where should the support rings be placed?
They should be placed on the side opposite to the pressure to prevent the joint from deforming. In double acting systems, it is recommended to place support rings on both sides of the joint.
Can support rings be made of special materials?
Yes, in addition to the stock materials, Epidor can manufacture support rings in other technical plastics according to the application requirements.

Do you need support rings for your project?