Hi-Tech Metal Seals for Extreme Service Conditions

Simon Ward
Picture of Simon Ward

Simon Ward

Simon leads the UK technical team and specialises in the design and development of Smalley wave springs and spiral retaining rings. With over 25 years of experience, Simon develops bespoke parts for major clients around the world and across a wide range of industry sectors. He is now widely considered the leading authority on Smalley products.

~Superior static sealing solutions for high temperatures, pressures, and corrosive environments~

TFC’s Hi-Tech Metal Seals are ideal for extreme service conditions. They are generally used in static applications and are designed to provide high fluid or gas sealing levels under the most extreme working conditions.

General Properties

  • Sizes from 5mm to 7 metres
  • Temperature limits from Cryogenic to +750°C
  • Pressure from ultra high vacuum to over 500 Mpa
  • Capable of reaching tightness better than 10-9 mbar.l/s
  • Excellent resistance to corrosion and radiation
  • Maintains elasticity or ‘spring back’ over an extended service life
  • Does not suffer from explosive decompression
  • Cross section from 0.8mm to 12.5mm
  • Available in circular, race track, oval and other shapes

 
The sealing concept of a metal seal is based on the elastic deformation of the seal under compression that, in turn, provides a constant contact point on each sealing surface.

Unlike flat gaskets, metal seals do not depend upon enormous clamping loads to maintain sealing tightness. By compressing the seal to a defined size, a seating load is created. The shape of the seal determines the ‘spring back’ or elasticity of the seal.

Depending upon the application, there are three types of seal energisation that can be utilised to provide the perfect seal.

Self energisation

The use of different seal materials and heat treatment processes results in a variety of spring temper properties that, when under pressure loading, provide a definable and constant spring force.

Pressure energisation

Metal seals can use either the hydrostatic forces created by the medium being sealed or are independently gas filled to obtain the highest level of sealing.

Spring energisation

Metal seals can be fitted with an internal spring to provide greater compressive loads.

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Please don’t hesitate to contact our expert team on 01435 866011 for further innovative engineering solutions.

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