Valve World Americas October 2024 | Página 29

TECH TALK

isting validation techniques to determine the suitability of a compound . ISO 23936- 2 ( NORSOK M-710 ) serves as an excellent benchmark , allowing the substitution of standard gas mixtures with CO 2 for bespoke RGD testing . By adhering to the principles of this standard , it is possible to broaden the scope of testing to include variables beyond just the gas itself , such as test temperature and seal cross-section , to challenge materials rigorously .
Expertise in CO 2
Sealing
After decades of work in the oil and gas sector , companies like James Walker have developed an understanding of the challenges associated with high pressure sealing . As early as twenty years ago , CO 2 reinjection wells used in enhanced oil recovery ( EOR ) required players in the field to hone high-pressure seal techniques .
Elastomer products are being extensively tested in high-CO 2 environments , including supercritical conditions . These materials have demonstrated particular resistance to CO 2
-induced RGD and leaching , with resistance to high levels of swell seen in other similar compounds , making them ideal candidates for CCUS applications .
Certain elastomer products like James Walker ’ s Vermilion ® Four have been subjected to rigorous RGD testing in environments with high CO 2 levels and elevated temperatures , with outstanding results , leading to its selection for deployment in a significant North American CO 2 pipeline project . Similarly , Vermilion Two has been accepted by operators of a major European carbon capture project after undergoing evaluation in stringent conditions at a third-party laboratory . By testing at elevated temperatures , and successfully achieving a perfect result of 0000 when evaluated using the ISO 23936-2 acceptance criteria , the materials provide the confidence that they will work in safety critical applications .
Conclusion
As the world moves towards a low-carbon future , CCUS technologies will play an increasingly important role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions . However , the successful deployment of CCUS depends on overcoming a range of technical challenges , particularly in the handling and storage of CO 2
.
The potential effect of RGD on an O-ring seal
Valves , as critical components in CCUS systems , require sealing solutions that can withstand the unique demands of CO 2
, especially in its supercritical state . These demands are significant , and careful consideration is needed in material and product selection to mitigate risks and increase safety margins .
Companies like James Walker , who has extensive experience in the oil and gas sector , now provide a solid foundation for addressing the challenges of CCUS . Their expertise in high-pressure and high temperature sealing applications , combined with their knowledge of CO 2
’ s unique properties , make them well-fitted to tackle the challenges of CCUS . As the industry evolves and the technologies employed to tackle these challenges continue to develop , the demand for high-performance sealing solutions will increase , underlining the significance of expertise in this area .
In summary , while CCUS poses considerable challenges , particularly in CO 2 sealing , the specialized knowledge and experience of companies working in this field provide viable solutions . Continued research and
development in this area are essential for the successful implementation of CCUS technologies , contributing to a more sustainable future .

Velan valves proven in the toughest mining applications in the world

Since 1997 Velan has been providing engineered valves to mining processes such as slurry transport , tailings discharge , autoclave isolation , and feed pump isolation . This includes one of the toughest mines in the world – Collahuasi copper mines in Chile . These severe service ball valves are used in high pressure and high velocity applications with erosive and possibly corrosive media to exceed the capabilities of other valve types .
The Securaseal ® C-series versatile and robust design meets all conditions required along the pipeline including tight shut-off needed to avoid adding stress to the pressure column and low operating torque valves to withstand high pressures and velocity .
How can we help you address your severe service challenge ? Learn more at velan . com
Elastomer dumbbells in a beaker of water after being exposed to a high pressure Super Critical CO2 environment . Gas which has permeated into the elastomer can be seen permeating back out on the surface of the samples . This highlights the risk of CO 2 inducing swell and RGD events . velan . com
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