Trelleborg launches a custom-engineered elastomer-to-metal wellhead sealing solution
Trelleborg Sealing Solutions has announced the launch of a new metal end cap seal engineered for high-pressure, high-temperature (HPHT) wellhead tubing and casing hanger sealing environments, that combines the pressure and extrusion resistance of a metal-to-metal bonded component with the flexibility of an elastomer.
The high-performance elastomer-to-metal bonded sealing elements provide the high level of extrusion resistance necessary for HPHTcasing and tubing hanger applications. Combining the range of Trelleborg’s proprietary XploR Rapid Gas Decompression (RGD) and sour gas resistant elastomers with corrosion-resistant metal end caps, Trelleborg engineers can design a customized sealing solution to meet specific requirements.
“High-pressure wellhead sealing environments, such as casing strings and tubing hangers, are safety-critical applications requiring a robust and capable sealing product. The new metal end cap seal that Trelleborg has developed uses our proprietary and proven XploR materials, which provide superior RGD resistance, oilfield fluid compatibility and longevity in HPHT environments. These benefits accelerate the performance of our customer’s equipment, allowing them to operate oil & gas equipment with optimal safety and reliability,” David Brown, Trelleborg Sealing Solutions Global Director – Lead Group Oil & Gas, said.
Sealing in the elastomer-to-metal design solution is achieved by controlled deformation of the elastomer and metal end cap elements during installation and operation. Optimal stress distribution throughout the elastomer body is modeled through finite element analysis (FEA) to ensure appropriate design standards are applied to each customer’s unique application. Extrusion resistance is provided by the specially designed metal end caps that provide positive metal-to-metal sealing interference with the hardware upon assembly and conform to any potential extrusion gaps under pressure.
The metal end cap seal can withstand pressures up to 103.4 MPa/15,000 psi and temperatures up to +177 °C / +350 °F in static applications. The sealing materials comply with NORSOK, NACE, API and Total standards.
