Trelleborg Sealing Solutions has announced the launch of the new XploR S-Seal and XploR FS-Seal that have been developed for demanding high pressure sealing environments, such as those found in oil and gas downhole tool applications
Combining the benefits of integral support components with elastomer seal flexibility, the XploR S-Seal and XploR FS-Seal are custom-engineered, spring-energised seals that offer the maximum extrusion resistance necessary for demanding high-temperature and high-pressure (HTHP) sealing environments in oilfield applications.
Eric Bucci, Trelleborg Sealing Solutions global technical manager, oil and gas Americas, said, “Offshore oil and gas fields are moving into deeper waters. That means applications are becoming increasingly challenging, especially in downhole tools where temperatures and pressures are becoming more extreme. To meet these growing demands, we’ve developed the new XploR S-Seal and XploR FS-Seal to meet critical operating parameters.”
“By using integrated anti-extrusion devices, the XploR S-Seal and XploR FS-Seal can withstand pressures up to 15,000 psi/103.4 MPa and has a temperature resistance up to 200°C/329°F. Coupled with our rapid gas decompression resistant range of materials, which are compliant with industry standards, you have an extremely capable seal for harsh oilfield conditions,” he added.
The XploR S-Seal and XploR FS-Seal are manufactured along with corrosion-resistant steel springs in a range of Trelleborg’s proprietary Rapid Gas Decompression (RGD) and sour gas-resistant elastomers. This allows the development of standard and custom sealing solutions to accommodate specific oil field conditions as well as meet the requirements of HTHP environments.
Sealing is achieved by controlled deformation of the elastomer element. Optimal stress distribution throughout the elastomer body is modelled through finite element analysis (FEA) to ensure high-performance sealing as well as long seal life. Extrusion resistance is created when the specially designed spring provides support for the rubber, but the seal remains flexible enough to allow easy installation.
The S-Seal and FS-Seal can withstand pressures of up to 103.4 MPa (15,000 psi) and temperatures of up to +200°C (+329°F). Seal materials are certified according to NORSOK, NACE, API and Total standards.
