Sealing Material Selection & Chemical Compatibility
Sealing Material Selection & Chemical Compatibility
Chemical compatibility is a primary driver in seal failure analysis. This framework helps you evaluate materials against complex media sets and avoid costly downtime.
## Compatibility Evaluation Steps
1. **List all media** β include base fluids, additives, cleaning agents, and contaminants.
2. **Map temperature & concentration** β compatibility changes with temperature and mixture ratios.
3. **Shortlist materials** β use compatibility tables to identify candidate elastomers.
4. **Laboratory testing** β run immersion, compression set, and tensile retention tests.
5. **Field validation** β monitor seals under real operating conditions and gather feedback.
## Compatibility Matrix (Snapshot)
| Media | Recommended Elastomers | Notes |
| — | — | — |
| Hydrocarbon fuels | FKM, HNBR, high ACN NBR | Consider FKM for aromatics |
| Steam / hot water | EPDM, FFKM | Use peroxide EPDM for long-term steam |
| Acids (dilute) | EPDM, FKM | Strong acids require FFKM |
| Amines | EPDM, Kalrez Spectrum 6380 | Standard FKM may fail |
| Solvents (ketones) | FFKM, PTFE | Elastomers swell; avoid NBR |
| Food oils | EPDM (peroxide), silicone | Ensure FDA compliance |
## Testing Recommendations
– Immersion (ASTM D471) in actual process media.
– Compression set (ASTM D395) to ensure sealing force retention.
– Tensile strength retention (ASTM D412).
– Visual inspection for softening, blistering, cracking.
– For gas service, conduct rapid gas decompression tests (NORSOK M-710).
## Documentation
– Maintain a material compatibility matrix linked to equipment BOM.
– Record test results, supplier data sheets, and approvals.
– Update SOPs when media or operating profiles change.
## Related Pages
– [Chemical Resistance Guide](/materials/rubber-chemical-resistance-performance/)
– [O-Ring Testing Methods](/materials/o-ring-material-compatibility-testing-methods/)
– [Design Services](/services/design-services/) β request customised compatibility studies.
Get Material Recommendation
Send media, temperature, and quantity to receive a validated compound list.
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