Seals for cryogenic applications
Cryogenic sealing means controlling or sealing a media at very low temperatures. This process can be complex and advanced, and spans a range of markets; from pharmaceutical, chemical and refrigeration, to automotive and electronics.
What are low temperatures for seals?
A typical industrial sealing system will operate in the realms of a stable temperature rating. This is often sufficient for elastomer seals to cope with most of the time. For example, a general pump application running at -20°C to +80°C in air or water is perfectly suitable for a sealing solution manufactured in nitrile (NBR) elastomer.
However, if a temperature specification dropped to -196°C in liquid Nitrogen; the sealing solution would have to be adapted dramatically. This would be changed to a more advanced polymer sealing solution. This is because general elastomer groups such as NBR, FKM, & VMQ are simply not suitable to perform at very low temperatures. This is attributed to the chemistry of the elastomers at a molecular level.
All elastomers need a particular chemical makeup to be able to withstand a temperature range of the application. However current global elastomers on the market are not rated much more below -70°C.
This means elastomers are not a viable choice for cryogenic applications with temperatures below -70°C (often requirements reach -196°C or lower).
Types of cryogenic sealing solutions
Specialised sealing solutions are required for cryogenics conditions. Here at Ceetak, our engineers utilise a range of more advanced seal polymers to solve the most demanding and critical application setups.
PTFE is often a go-to material due to its outstanding temperature rating of -260°C to +260°C and low friction characteristics. Additionally, it’s often used in conjunction with a metal spring energiser.
The spring energiser acts to maximise the sealing force at the seal contact points and to maintain a tight seal. This is even when the very low temperature conditions are attempting to contract the seal away from the mating surfaces.
Other common polymers suitable are UHMPWE and PTCFE for more specific applications.
Our seals for cryogenic applications
We offer a range of cryogenic sealing solutions for various markets and applications including; pumps, engines, couplings, cylinders and many more.
Read about our full range of engineered materials HERE
