Quad© / X-Rings
X-rings, also known as Quad Rings©, are similar to O-rings, but have an x-shaped profile. When installed, X-rings seal with 4 contact surfaces, where standard O-rings seal with one larger single contact surface. This gives the X-ring twice the sealing surface of the standard O-ring. X-rings are most commonly used in reciprocating applications, where they provide reduced running and breakout friction, and reduce the risk of spiralling as compared to O-rings.
X-rings have the following benefits over standard O-rings:
- Lower friction
- Longer life
- Less spiralling and twisting
- Excellent sealing efficiency
Common Uses:
X-rings are used in a wide range of dynamic and static applications, including:
- Reciprocating rods and plungers
- Rotating and spiral movements on shafts and spindles
- Radial-static seal for bushings, pipes, etc.
- Axial-static seal for flanges, etc.
Techno Ad – Explore The Possibilities
Techno Ad offers X-rings in all standard AS568 and ISO 3601 sizes, and also in many additional non-standard sizes. Our stock includes NBR and Viton™ X-rings, as well.
Small minimum order quantities (MOQ) can be processed for in-stock X-rings.
Special tooling can be manufactured to produce customer designed X-rings.
Frequently Asked Questions About Quad Rings / X-Rings
What is a Quad Ring (X-Ring) and how is it different from an O-Ring?
A Quad Ring, also known as an X-Ring, is a four-lobed sealing ring designed to provide superior sealing performance compared to a traditional O-Ring. At Techno Ad, we recommend Quad Rings when higher sealing reliability, reduced friction, or improved stability against rolling and twisting is required.
What are the advantages of using Quad Rings over O-Rings?
Quad Rings offer several technical advantages:
Better sealing performance thanks to multiple sealing lips.
Reduced friction and wear due to lower contact pressure.
Increased stability in dynamic applications, minimizing the risk of twisting (spiral failure).
Longer service life under both static and dynamic conditions.
At Techno Ad, we help our customers evaluate whether a Quad Ring would offer a real technical advantage for their specific application.
In which applications should I consider using a Quad Ring?
Quad Rings are ideal for both static and dynamic sealing, especially when:
There is high-frequency reciprocating motion.
Low friction is critical to system performance.
Enhanced sealing is needed under vacuum or high-pressure environments.
Our team at Techno Ad routinely supports projects in industries like hydraulics, pneumatics, medical devices, and aerospace where Quad Rings provide tangible benefits.
What materials are available for Quad Rings?
At Techno Ad, we supply Quad Rings in a variety of materials tailored to the demands of each application: NBR, FKM (Viton®), EPDM, Silicone, and special compounds like polyurethane for extreme abrasion resistance. Each material selection is based on operating temperatures, chemical exposure, mechanical stresses, and regulatory requirements.
Can Quad Rings replace O-Rings directly?
In many cases, yes — Quad Rings can fit into standard O-Ring grooves. However, to maximize performance, groove dimensions might need slight adjustments. At Techno Ad, we offer full engineering support, including groove design consultation, to ensure optimal sealing results when transitioning from O-Rings to Quad Rings.
Do you offer custom Quad Rings?
Yes. Techno Ad specializes in custom Quad Rings based on non-standard sizes, special materials, or unique operating conditions. Whether for small prototypes or large production runs, we are ready to deliver tailor-made solutions that align with our customers’ exact technical specifications.
What industries benefit most from using Quad Rings?
Quad Rings are widely used in high-demand industries such as aerospace, automotive, hydraulics, medical equipment, and food processing. Thanks to their improved sealing characteristics and durability, Quad Rings are often the preferred choice for mission-critical applications where failure is simply not an option.
How can I determine if a Quad Ring is right for my project?
Our technical team at Techno Ad is available to review your application parameters and provide expert recommendations. We assess factors such as pressure levels, dynamic motion type, operating environment, and sealing criticality to determine whether a Quad Ring or another sealing solution would deliver the best results.