Tired of O-rings leaking under pressure or twisting in dynamic grooves? A small change in shape might be the sealing upgrade you need.
An X-ring, also called a quad ring, is a four-lobed sealing ring designed to provide better stability, lower friction, and improved sealing compared to standard O-rings, especially in dynamic applications.
Let’s explore how X-rings work, why they outperform traditional O-rings in certain scenarios, and when to use them.
How Does an X-Ring Work?
Wondering what makes an X-ring different from an O-ring?
X-rings have a four-lobed profile that prevents twisting in grooves, distributes sealing pressure more evenly, and reduces wear under dynamic movement.
✅ Benefits of the Four-Lobed Design:
- Prevents spiral failure in reciprocating motion
- Better lubricant retention between lobes
- Reduced compression set
- Improved sealing with less contact pressure
- Longer service life in hydraulic/pneumatic systems
X-Ring vs O-Ring: What’s the Difference?
Curious if it’s worth switching from O-rings?
X-rings offer enhanced performance in dynamic seals, while O-rings are more widely used and cost-effective in static applications.
| Feature | X-Ring (Quad Ring) ✅ | O-Ring |
|---|---|---|
| Seal stability | ✅ Excellent | ⚠️ Prone to twist |
| Dynamic sealing1 | ✅ Ideal | ⚠️ Moderate |
| Lubricant retention | ✅ Good | ❌ None |
| Friction during motion | ✅ Low | ⚠️ Medium-High |
| Cost | 💲💲 Moderate | 💲 Low |
Use X-rings2 for piston rods, valves, and moving shafts where standard O-rings3 might fail.
Where Are X-Rings Commonly Used?
Need seals that handle movement and pressure without damage?
X-rings are commonly used in hydraulic cylinders, pneumatic actuators, gear pumps, and rotary shafts where traditional O-rings may fail due to twisting or extrusion.
🏭 Common Industries:
- Hydraulic & pneumatic cylinders4
- Automotive power steering and brakes5
- Agricultural and construction machinery
- Rotary pump shafts
- Aerospace and defense systems6
Because they reduce wear and maintain consistent pressure, they’re often preferred in systems with repeated reciprocation or rotation.
What Materials Are Available for X-Rings?
Looking for oil or chemical resistance?
X-rings are manufactured in a variety of elastomers, including NBR, FKM, EPDM, HNBR, and silicone, each suited to different sealing environments.
| Material | Properties | Applications |
|---|---|---|
| NBR | Oil-resistant, general-purpose7 | Hydraulics, fuel systems |
| FKM/Viton | High temp, chemical and fuel resistant8 | Chemical pumps, automotive |
| EPDM | Steam, water, UV resistant | HVAC, potable water |
| HNBR | Heat, oil, and wear resistant | Compressors, engine seals |
| Silicone | Food grade, flexible, wide temp range9 | Medical, electronics, cleanrooms |
We recommend choosing materials based on chemical exposure, temperature range, and dynamic load.
Conclusion
X-rings are a performance upgrade over standard O-rings when sealing systems involve motion, high wear, or lubricant needs. Their unique four-lobed design ensures better sealing with less failure—ideal for dynamic or reciprocating equipment.
🧩 Need custom X-rings for your hydraulic or mechanical system?
Contact Julong Rubber or Request a Quote to get the right sealing solution for your application.
Or reach out to us via WhatsApp:
Discover how dynamic seals function and their importance in machinery and equipment performance. ↩
Explore the benefits of X-rings for dynamic sealing applications, enhancing performance and longevity. ↩
Learn about the versatility and cost-effectiveness of O-rings in various static applications. ↩
Explore this link to understand how hydraulic and pneumatic cylinders enhance efficiency and performance in various industries. ↩
Discover the mechanics behind automotive power steering and brakes to appreciate their role in vehicle safety and performance. ↩
Stay updated on cutting-edge technologies in aerospace and defense systems that are shaping the future of these critical industries. ↩
Explore how oil-resistant materials enhance the performance and longevity of hydraulic systems, ensuring reliability and efficiency. ↩
Discover the critical role of high temp and chemical resistant materials in automotive and industrial applications for safety and durability. ↩
Learn about the significance of food grade materials in maintaining hygiene and safety in medical and cleanroom environments. ↩
