RGD-Resistant Elastomer Sealing

High performance sealing solutions are integral in a competitive oil and gas industry. In 2015, upstream oil and gas companies faced a 50 percent drop in revenues, making sealing solutions which reduce downtime much more valuable. Innovations in sealing for oil and gas are always welcomed.

With G7 nations phasing out fossil fuel consumption, O&G operators are re-evaluating their roles in this new lowcarbon economy. The long term aim might be to search out the growth areas, investing in the right industries for the decades to come. In the interim, the pressure is on to find innovative new technologies to make current operational processes as efficient as possible.

Improving efficiency in oil and gas

Equipment downtime is one of the biggest threats to efficiency in oil and gas production. From Arctic conditions through to subsea drilling, even routine repair and maintenance in O&G can be incredibly costly. Finding a sealing component that provides increased capability to resist environmental factors and deliver reliable performance can make all the difference.

Sealing represents one of the key areas where material scientists can make an impact on efficiency. Through detailed understanding of the mechanical and chemical properties of elastomers, materials can be found to match the exact operational requirements of any oil and gas application.

What the right elastomer needs

Elastomer sealing materials for oil and gas applications have to withstand a variety of challenges. These factors include high pressures and exposure to corrosive chemicals. Extreme temperature ranges must be endured, with some specialist grades capable of withstanding anything between -55°C and +150°C.

Resistance to Rapid Gas Decompression (RGD) is critically important. RGD is a significant contributor to seal failure and equipment downtime. High performance elastomers are engineered to withstand RGD, maintaining sealing characteristics and extending equipment life. Finding a seal material certified to both NORSOK M710 and ISO 23636-2 is a reliable measure of a seal’s ability to perform under pressure.

Safeguarding your application

When choosing a low temperature, RGD-resistant seal for an oil or gas application, it can help to consult with a technical sealing expert. They can advise on the right combination of mechanical and chemical qualities in a seal to keep oil and gas equipment in optimal condition for longer. This ensures better protection for your operations, whatever the industry has in store for the years to come.

Tel: +44 (0)1254 295 400
Email: prepol.sales@idexcorp.com
Web: www.prepol.com

Published: 17th November 2016