Why perfluoroelastomer is well-suited to oil and gas applications

TRP Polymer Solutions is highly experienced in the manufacture of specialised perfluoroelastomer (FFKM) seals and fluoroelastomer (FKM) seals for the rigours of downhole, subsea and surface environments in the oil and gas industry. In this article, we explore why perfluoroelastomers in particular are well-suited to demanding oil and gas applications.

The oil and gas industry is subject to some of the most challenging and extreme operational environments on earth. Not least the ongoing challenge of handling flammable liquids, gases and vapours safely, as well as managing high temperature and high-pressure downhole conditions. Any components destined for these environments must be fit for purpose and comply with relevant regulations to ensure the safety of personnel and equipment.

FFKM seals for the oil and gas industry

Even the smallest, most innocuous components play a vital role in oil and gas exploration, transportation and production. This is why TRP Polymer Solutions has developed a range of high-performance oil and gas seals offering superior chemical resistance to sour gas and rapid gas decompression (RGD). We also develop high-performance seals from materials that are independently tested and certified to Norsok M-710 specifications.

One of our most reliable and effective sealing materials for oil and gas applications is FFKM. Perfluoroelastomers (FFKM) combine the chemical resistance of PTFE with the elasticity of regular fluoroelastomers (FKM) to provide carbon-fluorine elastomers that boast the broadest chemical resistance of any elastomeric sealing material. Not only that, but FFKM also offers incredible thermal resistance in operating temperatures from -55 °C to +330 °C.

Perfluoroelastomer seals from TRP Polymer Solutions

Given its remarkable properties, it is easy to see why FFKM is a material well-suited to oil and gas applications. To meet demand, TRP Polymer Solutions has worked closely with our industry contacts to develop our own unique range of TRPlast™ FFKM materials specifically designed for even the most severe downhole conditions. The following grades of RGD resistant TRPlast™ FFKM have been designed with oil and gas applications in mind.

230AED – RGD Resistant Black FFKM

Our TRPlast™ 230AED FFKM is a black RGD resistant FFKM rubber that delivers excellent temperature and high pressure resistance up to +230 °C (+446 °F) and similar chemical resistance to PTFE.

230Norsok – RGD Resistant Black FFKM

Our TRPlast™ 230Norsok FFKM offers exceptional RGD resistance. Providing excellent chemical and temperature resistance, this FFKM compound meets the requirements of NORSOK M-710 Rev 2.

300AED – High temperature RGD resistant FFKM

Our TRPlast™ 300AED FFKM is a black RGD resistant and chemically inert FFKM material that has been designed specifically for high-temperature water and steam applications of up to +300 °C (+572 °F).

316AED – High temperature RGD resistant FFKM

Our TRPlast™ 316AED FFKM also offers a high degree of RGD, chemical and thermal resistance in operating temperatures of up to +316 °C (+600 °F). But it is unsuitable for high-temperature water and steam applications.

Contact TRP Polymer Solutions today

Make TRP Polymer Solutions your custom moulded rubber manufacturer of choice for perfluoroelastomer (FFKM) seals designed specifically for oil and gas applications. To find out more about our high-quality polymer products and manufacturing processes, or to discuss your requirements in more detail, please contact TRP Polymer Solutions on +44(0)1432 268899 or sales@trp.co.uk.