The Challenge: A High-Pressure CNG Test
A petrochemical equipment manufacturer was trying to find a seal for a high-pressure compressed natural gas (CNG) application. They first turned to a large, well-known seal company that recommended high-durometer Buna-N o-rings.
The equipment manufacturer tested the seals using this material and discovered leakage due to the o-rings being too hard. Unsatisfied with the recommended material, the equipment manufacturer approached Marco Rubber & Plastics for a new solution.
Application Requirements
- The primary goal was to deliver performance and prevent leakage
- The material would need to have to appropriate hardness to prevent leakage
- It would need to perform under a high level of pressure
- It would also need to maintain performance for long periods of time
The Solution: Proving the Performance of a Nitrile O-Ring
Realizing that the leakage was caused by the excess hardness of the Buna-N o-rings, our expert engineering recommended a softer Nitrile o-ring. We set up a test for this material as well as HNBR and FKM to prove the viability of this solution to the manufacturer. All materials were 70 Shore A hardness.
Our testing procedure called for the Nitrile o-rings to be placed chamber that was set to -40 ºF at 3,600 psi in Nitrogen gas and CNG for 90 hours. The chamber was then rapidly decompressed, and the Nitrile o-rings were analyzed and sectioned to look for damage.
The Result: Exceeding Industry-Standard Performance
The Nitrile o-ring material worked the best at all temperature ranges with only minor swelling <10% (CSA allows up to 25% in CNG). There was no visible damage after the testing. We were proud to provide this company with the material it needed to achieve its performance goals.
If you have a gas, oil, or other high-pressure application need and are looking for a solution that will deliver performance 24/7/365, the expert team at Marco Rubber & Plastics is ready to help. For more than 40 years, we’ve been helping companies in multiple industries around the world seal the success of their applications, and we’re ready to help you.
Connect with us today to speak with an application engineer.