Things to Know about PTFE Backup Rings and Their Applications

Industrial PTFE Back-up rings come with several applicable benefits when it comes to using them for relevant requirements under suitable conditions. As the name suggests, PTFE backup rings are designed in a way that makes the products usable in preventing the extrusion in rubber O-ring sealing systems.

Hydraulic and pneumatic systems deal with certain dynamic and static applications where in O-rings provide effective sealing solutions. However, O-rings have one disadvantage of extruding into the clearance of mating surfaces when exposed to increased temperatures and pressures. Elevation in atmospheric pressure or temperature poses a great burden and effect on the physical and chemical properties of the rubber O-rings, and this causes the rings to extrude further until failure and eventual leakage.

PTFE Backup Rings

What are PTFE Backup Rings and How do They Help?

In order to avoid the extrusion in o-ring rubber sealing systems, experts have fabricated the specially-engineered PTFE back-up rings. PTFE backup rings make the usage of o-rings for static and dynamic applications in hydraulic and pneumatic systems more efficient. The PTFE backup rings are not as succeptable to the effects of high pressure , and hence offer extended protection to the o-rings.

The typical applications of PTFE backup rings are:

  • Hydraulic cylinders
  • High pressure valves
  • High-pressure hydraulic and
  • Pneumatic systems
  • Aerospace sector

What are The Different Types of PTFE Backup Rings?

The 3 basic configurations of PTFE backup rings are solid (uncut), single turn (scarf cut) and multi-turn (spiral cut). Apart from the different configurations, there are varied other types of back up rings available depending upon the type and extent of applications.

When the backup rings are designed with a higher axial thickness or dimension, it is called a heavy duty backup ring. This extra thickness renders added protection to the o-rings against extrusion. These types of backup rings are provided in single turn (scarf cut) and solid (uncut) configurations.

In sealing systems that are facing burdens from severe duty cycles, higher pressures (above 3,000 psi) and higher temperature, “filled” PTFE backup rings may be a solution. A variety of fillers may be added to the PTFE to improve longevity of life, resilience to temperature and pressure or improved lubrication.

Trust Valley Seal for quality PTFE Backup Rings!!!

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