API ring gaskets play an important role in preventing fluid leakage, such as in pipes and other equipment parts. Along with this, API ring gaskets also have a wide range of different uses in various industries such as petroleum refining, chemical industry, shipping, construction, electric power, and steelmaking. This article will give us an overview of API ring gaskets and their importance. 

What is an API Ring and Its Significance in Sealing Applications?

API ring gaskets are widely used in high-pressure hydrocarbon services in oil and gas production. These are made to incorporate a high-integrity metal-to-metal seal and offer a highly reliable and robust connection. API ring gaskets are commonly used in the following applications: 

• High-Pressure API and ASME Ring Type Joint flanges
• Wellhead and drilling equipment
• Subsea manifolds and pipelines
• High-pressure connections

What’s the Difference Between Ring-type Gaskets and Full-face Gaskets?

Ring-type gaskets have no bolt holes and are positioned inside the flange bolts as well as around the pipe bore. These gaskets are also typically used on raised face flanges. When used as such, the ring gasket is positioned on top of the raised surface of the flange. One advantage of using ring gaskets is that they can be installed without having to fully disassemble the joint.

On the other hand, a full-face gasket covers the entire face of the flange. These are typically used on flat-face flanges and are cut with bolt holes. This procedure allows the insertion of the flange bolts through the gasket. Furthermore, when installing full-face gaskets, the joint must be completely disassembled.

What’s the Difference Between API, R, RX, and BX ring Gaskets? 

Apart from API ring gaskets, there are other types of ring gaskets made available.

• R Ring Gaskets – R Series ring joint gaskets are used for pressures up to 5,000 PSI. The oval cross-section R Series comes either in low carbon steel, 316 stainless steel or rubber-coated. 
• RX Ring Gaskets – RX Series ring joint gaskets are used for pressures from 2,000 to 5,000 PSI. RX Series come in either low carbon steel or 316 stainless steel. 
• BX Ring Gaskets – BX Series ring joint gaskets are used for pressures up to 20,000 PSI. They come either in low carbon steel, 316 stainless steel, or rubber-coated.

Secure Your Assets With API Ring Gasket

There are several API types of ring gaskets used in BOP connections and it is very important for the personnel involved in drilling operations to know about them. Browse our API ring gasket collection at OTOM to find the perfect fit for your needs.