Application
O-rings and gaskets

Customer
Oil and Gas Industry

Product or Service Supplied
Modelling with ELASTEQ software

Problem
Permeation of gas through an elastomeric seal was a cause for concern where tight limits existed for permitted emission levels, for toxicity or environmental reasons. Permeation loss also needs to be considered when a small volume of gas has to be retained in a closed space over an extended period of time (sealed electronics).

Objectives
To model and predict emission rates through different materials with various designs and operating conditions.

Approach
BHR Group's ELASTEQ software was used to model the rate of emission with different elastomeric materials and different seal housings, with different gas types under different operating temperatures and pressures.

The exposed area of elastomer on the low-pressure side of a seal is an important factor affecting the emission rate from elastomeric seals. This area is usually determined by the size of the extrusion gap. Design Charts of emission rate against a range of size of extrusion gap, and a mathematical model, were produced.

Outcome/Benefits
The study allowed users to quantify emissions at high temperature and pressure, and meet increasing legislative requirements.

For more information, search our site for your specific interest or contact us about your problems.