Ball valve equipped with Kalrez ® 0090 O-rings for high pressure and RGD resistance . π www . valve-world . net Valve World December 2024
END USER INTERVIEW
Advancing sealing technology for H2 and CO2 applications
William Braule , an Application Engineer for DuPont ’ s Kalrez ® business ,
Meyrin , Switzerland , discusses the company ’ s approach to creating sealing solutions for hydrogen and carbon dioxide applications in the valve industry .
By Melonie Dodaro Offshore platform
As industries worldwide shift toward sustainable practices and clean energy solutions , the need for specialised sealing technologies has grown significantly . At the forefront of this transition is William Braule , an Application Engineer for DuPont ’ s Kalrez ® business . In his role , Braule provides technical services for customers in energy and oil & gas applications across Europe , the Middle East and Africa ( EMEA ), focusing on selecting and designing elastomer valve seals and packings for challenging applications . He also coordinates The DuPont Center of Excellence for Oil & Gas and Energies . With DuPont ’ s extensive background in materials science , Braule and his colleagues are addressing the unique challenges presented by hydrogen and carbon dioxide applications in the valve industry . Their work is crucial in developing sealing solutions that can withstand the demanding conditions of these emerging energy sectors . “ Our company strategy incorporates sustainability at every level as we work towards the 2050 net zero CO2 emissions goal ,” Braule explains . This commitment to sustainability drives DuPont ’ s innovation in sealing technologies , particularly for clean energy applications .
Understanding the challenges of H2 and CO2
The move towards clean energy sources introduces a set of complex technical issues , particularly in sealing applications . Braule elaborates on the distinct nature of these challenges : “ Carbon dioxide and hydrogen each present a different problem . Carbon dioxide can cause elastomer seals to swell , while hydrogen is difficult to contain due to its small molecular size and high diffusion rate .” This dichotomy necessitates a careful approach to perfluoroelastomer sealing development . For CO2 applications , the main concern is the ability to withstand rapid gas decompression , which can lead to seal damage . In contrast , hydrogen applications require materials that can prevent gas escape and leaks due to the gas ’ small molecules and high diffusivity .
Ball valve equipped with Kalrez ® 0090 O-rings for high pressure and RGD resistance . π www . valve-world . net Valve World December 2024
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