Ring Joint Gaskets
Overview
Ring Joint Gaskets (RTJ) are precision-machined, metallic sealing rings used primarily with API 6A or ASME B16.5 flanged connections in high-pressure oilfield and petrochemical applications. Unlike typical soft gaskets, RTJs rely on metal-to-metal contact and plastic deformation for sealing.
When compressed between flanges with matching grooves, they create a reliable seal even under extreme service conditions (pressure, temperature, corrosive environments).
Features & Benefits
- Precision-machined metallic sealing rings
- Metal-to-metal contact and plastic deformation for sealing
- Temperature range up to 650°C (1200°F)
- Precise machining tolerances: ±0.2 mm or tighter
- Surface finish per ASME B16.20 guidelines
- Hardness typically 10-30 Brinell points below flange hardness
Types of RTJ Gaskets
R-Type Ring Joint Gaskets
- Octagonal or oval cross-section ring design
- Conforms to API 6A or ASME B16.20
- Pressure Range: 5,000 PSI to 10,000 PSI (Class 300 to Class 2500)
- Available in Oval R-Type (older design) and Octagonal R-Type (better sealing)
- Ideal for general oil & gas line connections, pipeline systems, pressure vessels
RX-Type Ring Joint Gaskets
- Pressure-energized, octagonal cross-section with higher radial profile
- Compatible with API 6B flanges
- Pressure Range: Above 5,000 PSI
- Self-energizing design - higher pressure creates tighter seal
- Suitable for high-pressure wellhead, subsea equipment, refining units
BX-Type Ring Joint Gaskets
- Special geometry designed for API 6BX flanges
- Pressure Range: 10,000 PSI and above (Class 5,000 / 10,000 / 15,000 / 20,000)
- Extremely tight tolerances and fully confined ring groove
- Ideal for high-pressure wellhead and subsea applications
Materials & Specifications
| Material | Applications | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Soft Iron / Low Carbon Steel | Standard service | Minimal corrosion requirements, used with carbon steel flanges |
| Stainless Steel (304, 316, 321) | Offshore/corrosive environments | Improved resistance to sour gas, H₂S, brine |
| Inconel® (625, 825) | Extreme conditions | High-temperature, sour gas, subsea operations |
| Monel® 400 | Specific corrosive services | Ideal for brine or mild acid applications |
| Duplex / Super Duplex | Offshore/high-salinity | Excellent for chloride-rich, highly corrosive mediums |
Design Standards
- API 6A for oil & gas wellhead equipment
- ASME B16.20 for dimensions and tolerances
- ASME B16.5 / API 6B & 6BX for flange specifications