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The energy sector is a growing market, where more and more new application areas are emerging. Just look at solar and wind energy. Seaco Groep has an extensive range of seals to meet the demand of this market. In consultation, we can also supply ‘specials’, which we produce in-house.
Oxidation can be either chemical or thermal and can start from the inner or outer part of the sealing element. Chemical oxidation occurs when oxidising agents come into contact with the seal and react with the graphite. Thermal oxidation occurs at high temperatures, where oxygen in the process fluid reacts with the inner part of the seal, or oxygen from the ambient air reacts with the outer part of the compound. The rate of oxidation is strongly dependent on temperature. Both forms of oxidation can affect the seal and lead to seal failure.
Although the focus is often on the purity of graphite, this alone is not enough to prevent oxidation at high temperatures. Graphite, regardless of purity, will start oxidising at about 350°C/662°F and its rate will accelerate as the temperature increases. To slow the rate of oxidation, the graphite material should contain chemical oxidation inhibitors, such as phosphates. We do not recommend the use of uninhibited graphite in any application, and do not recommend graphite for applications above 450°C/842°F. For very high temperatures, it is necessary to use materials that are not susceptible to oxidation, such as vermiculite.
SEACO Group offers alternatives specially developed to minimise oxidation and ensure a long-lasting, reliable seal, even under the most extreme conditions.
