Backup rings play a vital role in preserving the integrity of seals within pressurized aerospace hydraulic systems, minimizing leakage, and extending the lifespan of the components they protect.

What are Backup Rings?

The back up ring material could be PEEK, modified PTFE. PEEK™ back-up rings are designed to prevent extrusion in elastomer O-ring sealing systems. These rings are designed to close off the sealing system's extrusion gap and support the primary seal, especially under high-pressure conditions.

Elastomer O-rings serve as effective seals for dynamic and static applications in hydraulic and pneumatic equipment systems. A drawback of elastomer O-rings is their tendency to extrude into the clearance of mating surfaces with increasing pressures and temperatures. Higher temperatures impose a severe burden on the physical and mechanical properties of elastomer O-rings, which further increases their tendency to extrude. The combination of high pressures and high temperatures is a common occurrence in fluid systems. This establishes the need for the back-up ring in preventing O-Ring extrusion.

Advantages

• Prevents O-Ring extrusion.
• Prolongs O-Ring service life.
• Allows O-Rings to be utilized in higher pressure applications, where larger extrusion gaps are required and where there are reciprocating or rotating movements.
• Compatible with virtually all media and gases.
• Easy installation.

The importance of Backup Rings

The aerospace industry requires systems to operate effectively and reliably under extreme conditions, including temperature variations and high pressures. This is where the backup ring proves its worth. Here are four reasons why they are critical to high-pressure aerospace hydraulic systems:

Seal Support and Protection: Backup rings significantly reduce the chances of seal extrusion, especially under high-pressure conditions. This protection ensures the seal remains effective, minimizing potential leaks that could compromise the system's performance.

Enhanced Component Lifespan:By providing necessary support, backup rings help extend the seals' lifespan, increasing the service life of the hydraulic system components. This translates to reduced maintenance requirements and operational costs.

System Reliability:Backup rings enhance the reliability of hydraulic systems, ensuring they function optimally even under the extreme conditions encountered in aerospace applications. This reliability is critical for ensuring safety and operational effectiveness.

Compatibility with Various Fluids: Back-up rings are made from thermoplastic materials that are resistant to aviation fluids, making them suitable for a wide range of applications within the industry. Backup rings might not be the most prominent or conspicuous components within a hydraulic system, but their role is undeniably crucial.