API 6A ring gaskets are metal sealing gaskets designed for high-pressure oil and gas industry applications. They are widely used in wellhead equipment and Christmas tree flange connections. The ring joint seal design provides efficient sealing performance and can withstand extreme high-pressure, high-temperature, and corrosive environments.

API 6A Ring Gaskets

High Quality API 6A Ring Gaskets

SSM provides API 6A Ring Gaskets, ring-shaped gaskets used in the oil and gas industry that comply with the API 6A standard. These gaskets typically seal high-pressure flange connections, especially in wellhead equipment and Christmas tree systems.

The design of API 6A Ring Gaskets effectively prevents leakage in extreme high-pressure, high-temperature, and corrosive environments, ensuring safe system operation.

Features of API 6A Ring Gaskets

Sealing Type:
API 6A flanges typically use RTJ seals (Ring Type Joint), a metal-to-metal sealing method. The ring gasket is placed in the flange’s ring groove, and when the flange is tightened, the gasket is compressed into the groove, forming a tight seal.

Common Types:

R-type ring gaskets: The most common type with an oval or octagonal cross-section is used in medium- to low-pressure applications. R-type gaskets are usually suited for 6B flanges.
BX-type ring gaskets: Designed for high-pressure applications, used with 6BX flanges, and capable of withstanding pressures up to 20,000 psi, offering strict sealing performance.
RX-type ring gaskets: A modified design for high-pressure flange connections that provides better sealing performance and is suitable for certain specific flanges and applications.

Materials

API 6A ring gaskets are typically made of metal to ensure reliability in high-pressure, high-temperature environments. Common materials include:

Soft iron (for low-pressure applications)
Carbon steel
Stainless steel (e.g., 304, 316)
Nickel-based alloys (e.g., Inconel, Monel)
Low-temperature alloy steel (e.g., A182 F51)

Pressure Ratings

API 6A ring gaskets vary in size and material depending on the pressure rating. They are suitable for high-pressure systems ranging from 2000 psi to 20,000 psi. BX and RX gaskets are typically used for higher pressure applications.

Shapes

Oval: Used in some older flange designs but still widely employed.
Octagonal: Provides better sealing performance than the oval design and is more commonly used.
Special designs: Custom gaskets may be available based on different flange types and requirements in API 6A.

Applications of API 6A Ring Gaskets

Wellhead equipment: API 6A ring gaskets ensure the sealing of flange connections in wellhead equipment and other high-pressure connections.
Christmas tree equipment: In high-pressure oil and gas collection systems, API 6A ring gaskets are used for critical pipeline connections to prevent leakage.
High-pressure pipelines: They are used in high-pressure pipeline systems in oilfields, ensuring the safe transport of fluids.

Advantages of API 6A Ring Gaskets

High sealing performance: The metal-to-metal sealing design can withstand extremely high pressures and provides excellent leak prevention.
High-temperature resistance: Suitable for high-pressure, high-temperature environments and can withstand several hundred degrees Celsius temperatures.
Corrosion resistance: Gaskets made of corrosion-resistant materials are suitable for harsh oilfield environments, extending service life.

One-Stop API 6A Ring Gaskets Provider for All Your Needs

SSM has significant product advantages in manufacturing API 6A Ring Gaskets, Whether it’s quality or price, we will meet your needs.

More Information About API 6A Ring Gaskets

API 6A PDF DOWNLOAD

Types R or RX gaskets shall be used on 6B flanges. Only BX gaskets shall be used with 6BX flanges.
NOTE: RX and BX gaskets provide a pressure-energized seal but are not interchangeable. RX gaskets provide additional clearance between the flanges.

Dimensions and Surface Finish

Ring Gasket Dimensions:

Must conform to the dimensions and tolerances specified in Tables 63, 64, and 65.
Flatness tolerance is 0.2% of the ring’s outside diameter, with a maximum deviation of 0.38 mm (0.015 in).

R and RX Gaskets

Surface Finish: 23° surfaces must have a finish no rougher than 1.6 µm Ra (63 µin RMS).
Pressure-Passage Hole: Certain sizes of RX gaskets must have a pressure-passage hole drilled through the height, as detailed in Table 64.

BX Gaskets

Surface Finish: 23° surfaces must have a finish no rougher than 0.8 µm Ra (32 µin RMS).
Pressure-Passage Hole: As detailed in Table 65, each BX gasket must have a pressure-passage hole drilled through the height.

Gasket Material and Coatings

Material

Must conform to the material requirements outlined in Clause 5

Coatings and Platings

It may be applied to facilitate seal engagement, minimize galling, and extend shelf life.
Coating and plating thickness must not exceed 0.013 mm (0.0005 in).

Re-use of Gaskets

Gaskets are designed with limited positive interference to ensure proper sealing. They must not be re-used after installation.

Marking, Storage, and Shipping