Bal Seal releases high-temperature materials for petrochemical seals

US-based Bal Seal Engineering has expanded its line of seal materials to include P78, a high-temperature, high-performance thermoplastic, and P240, a lubricated, fiber-reinforced version of P78.

The company says the properties of the new materials make them well-suited for use in the chemical processing and petrochemical industries and in applications requiring high wear resistance at extreme temperatures.

The new materials exhibit exceptional heat resistance and minimal wear with high load-carrying capabilities, and both of the compression-moulded materials have a maximum service temperature of 343°C.

However, depending on the application, effective sealing at even higher service temperatures may be achieved.

Compatible with ketones, hydrocarbons, and ethers, the materials offer great ultrasonic transparency as well as retention of tensile strength, compressive strength, elongation, and hardness over 205°C.

The materials are suitable for applications such as electrical connectors, bearing seals, bushings, and valve seats, and both are suitable for rotary or reciprocating applications.

P78 is a good fit for use in simple support rings, whereas P240 is ideal for high-temperature seals in addition to support-ring applications where the ring may come into contact with a dynamic part.

Bal Seal says it added the new materials to its offering in answer to a growing demand for sealing options that could withstand the increasingly extreme temperatures in petrochemical and chemical process applications.

“Petrochemical OEMs are faced with harsh environments and that has driven a need for seal materials that are up to the challenge,” said Jim Harty, global energy market manager for Bal Seal Engineering.