Packings Division
The most recent version of the Packing Standard has successfully passed the ballot among the members of CEN TC197 WG3 and will now proceed to the inquiry stage. Amtec has completed the ISO 15848 CO1 test using a PTFE packing set that features tighter-tolerance sintered PTFE end discs. The results showed only marginal improvements compared to the previously tested PTFE sets, falling short of the anticipated enhancements. Consequently, it has been decided to publish an article in Valve World that will compare the performance of packing rings against packing lengths. The hydrogen testing program at DHBW Mannheim University will continue with PTFE packing sets. Additionally, the initiative for plastic-free packaging will move forward with Burgmann Packings, and other ESA members are set to implement this solution in 2025.
Expansion Joints Division
The configurator tool designed for choosing standard fabric expansion joint solutions requires additional programming efforts before it can be hosted on the divisional website. Additionally, the development of the training presentation titled “Introduction to Fabric Expansion Joints” is still in progress.
Mechanical Seals Division
Several members of the Mechanical Seals Division are actively participating in the working groups tasked with updating API 682. It appears that the 5th edition of this standard will be finalised by the end of the year. The training course on containment seals is almost complete and only requires a final review for wording accuracy prior to its release next month. An article on diamond-coated face seals has been published on the World Pumps magazine website. Additionally, another article concerning mechanical seal reliability has been sent to the editor for consideration. During the in-person meeting in Düsseldorf, numerous article ideas were generated for submission in 2025.
Flange Gaskets Division
A presentation comparing the emission results of hydrogen and helium across different gasket materials has been completed and is scheduled for presentation at the Valve World Conference in Düsseldorf this December. In relation to the plastics reduction initiative, silicone and biodegradable plastic options have been deemed impractical due to their higher costs and limited shelf life. Alternative solutions utilising cardboard will be explored further. Additionally, the third training module on gasket selection, comprising nearly 50 slides, will soon be available in the Knowledgebase. Subtitles for the Gasket installation video have also been developed in French, German, Italian, and Spanish, with translation accuracy currently being verified by several Division members.
Elastomeric & Polymeric Seals Division
A new work program with CETIM for the Arrhenius project focused on forecasting the lifespan of elastomeric seals was a key topic during the meeting in Düsseldorf. The primary goals for the upcoming year include further exploration of the Arrhenius methodology, developing a guideline on elastomer ageing, leverageing Python tools created in previous studies, and formulating a study program for the 2025-2027 timeframe. Additionally, testing with hydrogen at CETIM will be examined. The position paper concerning tariff codes for FKM and FFKM seals has been published on the ESA website and will be sent to the EU customs authorities.
Ralf Vogel,
Technical Director, ESA