RGD Resistant Elastomeric Seals

MODES: Design Tools for Developing RGD Resistant Elastomeric Seals

The MODES (Modelling of Decompression in Elastomeric Seals) consortium programme aims to develop predictive tools that will help engineers decide how to design or operate safely process plant, pipelines and other systems where there is the possibility of Rapid Gas Decompression (RGD) from elastomers or other rubber-like components.

This work has been supported by organisations including:  BP, Total, Statoil, James Walker, HSE

Project Goals

• Developing function test specifications and methodologies for elastomeric seals
• Generating RGD data against industrial standard, NORSOK M-710 on a range of materials including FKM, HNBR, Aflas, nitrile
• Develop a closely-coupled void-stress Finite Element (FE) model for predicting and mitigating against RGD damage
• Provide sponsors with an advanced model describing the plastic/elastic behaviour of highly filled seal materials.

Applications

• Select appropriate seal system designs, seal and housing
• Select appropriate sealing materials
• Identify and quantify the potential for seal failure
• Avoid downtime due to Rapid Gas Decompression failures
• Assess the effect of RGD events on an existing installation
• Define operating scenarios that avoid RGD conditions
• Aid  engineers in understanding the RGD damage process
• Work to relevant standards such as NORSOK M-710
• Work to industrial guidelines such as HSE