Valve sealing is a universal technology essential to various industrial sectors. Not only are sectors such as petroleum, chemical, food, pharmaceuticals, paper making, hydropower, shipbuilding, water supply and drainage, smelting, and energy dependent on sealing technology, but cutting-edge industries like aviation and aerospace are also closely linked to it.
Commonly used valve sealing materials
Rubber Material: Rubber is one of the most commonly used materials for valve seals, particularly in butterfly valve and gate valves. Common rubber types include Neoprene Rubber, viton, and silicon rubber. These materials offer excellent elasticity and corrosion resistance, making them suitable for sealing a wide range of media.
Telflon (PTFE): PTFE is a high-performance plastic material widely used in valve seals. Its excellent chemical and temperature resistance makes it suitable for use in environments with high temperatures, high pressures, and corrosive media. PTFE seals are commonly used in check valves and butterfly valves.
Metal: Metal seals are also widely used in some specialized applications. These seals are typically made of stainless steel, copper, or other alloys and are suitable for sealing valves in high-temperature, high-pressure, and extreme environments. The advantages of metal seals lie in their durability and long-term stability.
Composite materials: Composite materials have gained increasing attention in recent years. These materials typically combine the advantages of rubber and plastic, providing excellent sealing performance under various operating conditions. The use of composite materials has further improved the sealing performance of valves.
Valve sealing material performance indicators
When selecting valve sealing materials, the following performance indicators need to be considered:
Temperature Resistance: The temperature range of a sealing material is an important indicator for evaluating its performance. Different materials have varying degrees of temperature resistance. Rubber materials are generally suitable for low-temperature environments, while PTFE and metal materials are more suitable for high-temperature applications.
Corrosion Resistance: Valves are often used to transport a variety of chemical media, so the corrosion resistance of the sealing material is crucial. PTFE and certain specialty rubbers excel in this regard, effectively resisting corrosion from a wide range of chemicals.
Compression Set: This measures the sealing material’s ability to maintain its sealing properties under long-term pressure. The smaller the compression set, the better the sealing performance of the material.
Elasticity & Resilience: The elasticity and resilience of the sealing material directly affect its sealing effect. Good elasticity ensures that the sealing ring can effectively fit when the valve is opened and closed, preventing leakage.
Wear resistance: In some applications, valve sealing materials need to withstand wear, so wear resistance is also an important performance indicator. Metal seals and certain composite materials perform better in this regard.
Conclusion
Selecting the appropriate sealing material is crucial for valve performance. TWS will primarily introduce butterfly valves, gate valves, and check valves, among others, each utilizing specific sealing materials tailored to its function. Understanding the performance indicators of different materials empowers engineers to make well-informed decisions when designing and maintaining pipeline systems, thereby ensuring safe and efficient operation.
Post time: Sep-27-2025
