Problem Faced
Since the early 80’s composite piston rings and rod guide rings have been exclusively used throughout the hydraulics industry.
Before this it would not be uncommon for companies to design using either a cast iron or bronze material.
The problem with using these metallic wear rings is that a more complicated overall design must be used.
This would, most likely, involve a split piston design to enable fitting of the old-style piston rings and a screw-in gland bush for the rod guide rings.
Tufcot Solution
Throughout the Hydraulics industry it has become a standard to use composite piston rings and rod guides like Tufcot.
This is due to the many benefits they offer compared to the classic cast iron or bronze materials.
Tufcot® composite materials offer excellent load carrying capabilities that are compatible with most hydraulic fluids used.
The job of the piston and rod guide rings is to ensure there is no metal to metal contact on the cylinder bore. By using Tufcot® and removing this issue, it will reduce the probability of metal fragments damaging the seals in the cylinder.
As our rings are usually supplied with a split and coupled with the fact Tufcot® materials are extremely flexible, it produces a ring that is incredibly easy to install without the need for a complicated cylinder design.
Conclusion
Tufcot® materials offer extensive benefits for both designers and manufacturers of hydraulic cylinders.
So successful, in fact, the use of composite materials, like Tufcot®, for piston rings and rod guide rings have become an industry standard in the hydraulics market.
