Step Seal VS Glyd Ring

• Differences in Structure and Appearance

1. Step Seal

• （1）PTFE slide ring: stepped cross-section (asymmetrical)
• （2）Installation location: Rod application (rod seal). The seal is fitted in the groove of guide bushing / end cap and slides against the piston
• （3）rod.Elastomer: O-ring installed in low-pressure side groove of PTFE slide ring

2. Glyd Ring

• （1）PTFE slide ring: rectangular cross-section (symmetrical)
• （2）Installation location: Bore application (piston seal). The seal is fitted in the piston groove and slides against the inner wall of the cylinder tube.
• （3）The O-ring bears against the inner flat face of the rectangular slide ring.

• Pressure Bearing Characteristics

1、Step Seal

• Single-acting seal (unidirectional pressure). High-pressure medium enters only from the wide stepped side. Pressure forces PTFE slide ring against rod surface. Reverse installation causes immediate failure and massive leakage. For bi-directional pressure, mount two Stepseals back-to-back.

2. Glyd Ring

• Double-acting seal (bidirectional pressure). Rectangular PTFE ring accepts oil pressure from both sides. Pressure from either side forces the slide ring against cylinder tube inner wall. Glyd Ring is preferred for pistons with bidirectional reciprocating pressure load.

三、Similarities and Differences in Working Principle

1、Common points: O-ring preloaded, pressure self-energized PTFE composite seals; low friction, high pressure resistance, wear-resistant, superior anti-extrusion compared with ordinary oil seals.

2、Differences:

（1）Stepseal: Uses stepped profile for unidirectional pressure guidance, with slight oil film back-pumping effect, suited for piston rod external leakage prevention.

（2）Glyd Ring: symmetrical rectangular ring, sealing pressure established on both sides, suitable for pistons under bidirectional pressure.