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Z - X-ring Cords - Nieuw

X-Ring Cord

X-ring cord is an elastomer sealing profile with a characteristic X-shaped cross-section and four sealing lips. Its profile helps the seal remain stable inside the groove and reduces the tendency to roll or twist during movement. This makes X-ring cord particularly suitable for dynamic sealing applications in hydraulic and pneumatic systems, pumps, valves, pistons and piston rods.

The spaces between the four sealing lips can also retain lubricant. In moving applications, this can help reduce friction between the seal and the surrounding surface.

Techniparts supplies X-ring cord for various technical and industrial applications. It can also be used to produce a custom-sized X-ring when a standard dimension is unavailable. The correct version depends on cord size, material, hardness, medium, temperature and application. View the available NBR X-ring cord 70 Shore A.

 
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What is X-ring cord?

X-ring cord is an extruded elastomer profile with an X-shaped cross-section. The profile forms four separate sealing lips. When installed in a correctly dimensioned groove, these lips are compressed against the sealing surfaces and create several sealing contact zones.

The spaces between the lips can retain a small amount of lubricant. This is particularly useful in applications where components move relative to each other. Compared with a completely round sealing profile, the X-shaped geometry can provide greater stability inside the groove.

Four sealing lips

A defining feature of X-ring cord is its four sealing lips. Rather than creating one rounded contact area, the profile produces several sealing zones between the elastomer and the surrounding components. This distributes the sealing contact differently from a conventional round profile.

Its geometry also reduces the tendency of the profile to rotate inside the groove. This can be particularly important in reciprocating and other dynamic movements, where repeated twisting of a seal may otherwise contribute to wear and leakage.

Advantages of X-ring cord

The X-shaped profile offers several advantages in moving sealing applications. Its shape allows the seal to sit more securely in the groove, reducing the risk of rolling during movement. This can help prevent twisting of the elastomer and the wear that may result from repeated deformation.

Another advantage is the space between the four sealing lips. Lubricant can remain in these areas, which can contribute to lower friction and reduced wear in dynamic applications. Because sealing contact is divided across several lips, the profile can also function with relatively limited preload in suitable designs.

Reduced risk of rolling in the groove

With sliding movement, a round sealing profile can under certain conditions start to rotate or twist within its groove. Repeated movement of this type can eventually damage the material. The X-shaped cross-section provides a more stable position and is therefore attractive for applications involving frequent reciprocating or sliding movement.

Lubrication between the sealing lips

The spaces between the sealing lips can retain lubricant close to the contact surfaces. In a moving application, this can help reduce friction between the seal and the mating component. Actual performance depends on factors including the elastomer, lubricant, speed, surface finish, groove design and installation.

Applications of X-ring cord

X-ring cord is mainly used in constructions where a reliable seal is required while movement occurs. Typical applications include hydraulic and pneumatic systems, pumps, valves, pistons, piston rods and shafts. Depending on the design of the sealing space, the profile can be used in radial as well as axial sealing arrangements.

X-profiles can also be used in covers, bushes and flanges when the properties of this sealing geometry suit the application.

Dynamic applications

In dynamic sealing systems, one or more components move relative to the seal. A common example is the reciprocating movement of a piston or piston rod. The stable X-shaped geometry can be advantageous in these situations because the profile is less likely to roll in the groove. The lubricant reservoirs between the lips can also contribute to smoother movement.

Static applications

Although X-ring cord is commonly selected for dynamic sealing, it can also be used in certain static applications. Examples include covers, bushes and flange connections. Whether an X-profile is the most suitable solution depends on the groove design, pressure, temperature, medium and overall construction.

NBR X-ring cord

NBR X-ring cord is made from nitrile rubber and is widely used for general industrial sealing applications. NBR is known for its good compatibility with many mineral oils and greases. It is therefore commonly used in hydraulic installations, pumps, valves and machinery.

The exact chemical and temperature resistance depends on the specific NBR compound and the operating conditions. Always check whether the material is suitable for the medium with which the seal will come into contact.

X-ring cord 70 Shore A

A common version is NBR X-ring cord in 70 Shore A. Available cross-sections include 1.78 mm, 2.62 mm, 3.53 mm, 5.33 mm and 6.99 mm. The correct size depends on the groove and application. View the available NBR X-ring cord 70 Shore A versions.

Which size X-ring cord do I need?

The correct size is determined by the dimensions of the X-shaped cross-section and the available groove. Product dimensions are often specified using the cross-section or cord size. For example, a version specified as 3.53 x 3.53 mm has a profile dimension of 3.53 mm.

The required dimension does not depend on the available space alone. The necessary preload, type of movement and overall sealing design must also be considered.

Groove and preload

Groove dimensions determine how much space the profile has to deform during installation and operation. A cross-section that is too large can result in excessive compression and friction, while a profile that is too small may not create sufficient contact with the sealing surface.

This is especially important in dynamic applications. Preload must be high enough to provide a reliable seal without unnecessarily increasing resistance to movement.

Measuring an existing profile

When replacing an existing seal, the old profile can provide a useful starting point. Measure the cross-section at several locations using a suitable caliper. Keep in mind that used elastomer can become permanently deformed through temperature, ageing or long-term compression. Where possible, compare the measurement with the groove dimensions and original product information.

Material, temperature and medium

The shape and size of X-ring cord are not the only important selection criteria. The elastomer largely determines which liquids, gases and temperatures the seal can withstand. NBR is widely used in applications involving mineral oils and greases, while other media or higher temperatures may require a different elastomer.

When selecting the material, always consider the medium, operating temperature, peak temperature, pressure and movement.

Chemical resistance

Contact with an unsuitable medium can cause an elastomer to swell, harden, crack or lose important mechanical properties. Chemical compatibility should therefore be checked before installation. Use the chemical resistance guide to compare common elastomers for different media.

Temperature resistance

Temperature limits also vary significantly between elastomers. Excessive heat may accelerate ageing or reduce mechanical strength, while low temperatures can reduce flexibility. Use the temperature resistance guide by material to compare different elastomers. Always consider temperature together with the medium.

Selecting and ordering X-ring cord

Several technical parameters must be considered when selecting X-ring cord. First determine the required cross-section. Then select a material and hardness that are suitable for the operating conditions. Temperature, pressure, medium and type of movement must also be considered.

In dynamic applications, groove dimensions, preload and surface quality are particularly important. A profile that physically fits the available space is therefore not automatically the correct sealing solution.

Looking specifically for nitrile rubber? View the available NBR X-ring cord in 70 Shore A. If you are unsure which size or material is required, gather information about the groove, movement, pressure, temperature and medium before selecting the seal.

Frequently asked questions about X-ring cord

What is X-ring cord?

X-ring cord is an elastomer sealing profile with an X-shaped cross-section and four sealing lips. Its geometry provides a stable position inside the groove and reduces the tendency to roll or twist during movement. It is therefore frequently used in dynamic sealing applications and can also be used to produce custom-sized X-rings.

What is X-ring cord used for?

Typical applications include hydraulic and pneumatic systems, pumps, valves, pistons, piston rods, shafts, covers and flanges. The profile is particularly useful in moving applications because of its stability and ability to retain lubricant between the sealing lips.

What is the advantage of X-ring cord in dynamic applications?

The X-shaped cross-section reduces the tendency of the seal to roll or twist in its groove. This can help limit wear caused by repeated rotation. Lubricant can also remain between the four sealing lips, which may reduce friction during movement.

Which size X-ring cord do I need?

The required size depends on the groove dimensions and the desired preload. An existing profile can be measured, but where possible the groove should also be checked. A profile that is too large may create excessive friction, while a profile that is too small may not provide sufficient sealing contact.

What is NBR X-ring cord used for?

NBR X-ring cord is commonly used in technical applications involving mineral oils and greases, including hydraulic systems, pumps, valves and machine components. Suitability depends on the specific NBR compound, temperature and medium.

Can X-ring cord also be used for static sealing?

Yes. Although its geometry offers particular advantages in dynamic applications, X-ring cord can also be used for certain static seals, such as covers, bushes and flanges. Suitability depends on the groove, pressure, temperature, medium and construction.

Where can I order X-ring cord?

Different sizes of NBR X-ring cord 70 Shore A are available through O-Ring-Stocks. Always check not only the cross-section, but also whether the material, hardness, temperature range and chemical resistance are suitable for the application.

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