Metal Seals vs. PFAS Seals - Composite Sealing Systems Division | Parker US

Alternative to Elastomeric PFAS-based "Forever Chemical" Seals

In today's demanding industrial landscape, the choice of sealing solutions is crucial for ensuring operational efficiency and safety.
 

Metal seals have emerged as a superior alternative to traditional elastomeric PFAS seals, offering a range of advantages that make them ideal for various high-performance applications. From aerospace to oil and gas, metal seals excel in extreme conditions where reliability is paramount.

metal seals for aerospace applications

Why Replace PFAS Elastomer Seals?

  1. Environmental Concerns: PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are known for their persistence in the environment and potential health risks, leading to strict regulations on their use.
  2. Regulatory Compliance: Governments and organizations are pushing for alternatives to PFAS to meet stricter environmental standards.
  3. Sustainability: Metal seals are more environmentally friendly and do not contribute to the accumulation of harmful chemicals in ecosystems.
metal seals for aerospace applications
metal seals for aerospace, oil and gas, semiconductor, and high performance applications

Key Benefits

Below are key benefits that highlight why metal seals are increasingly favored for their exceptional performance and environmental sustainability:

  • Temperature Resistance:
    • Metal seals perform exceptionally well in high-temperature environments, often exceeding 1,000°F (538°C), far beyond the limits of most elastomeric seals.
    • This makes them ideal for applications such as aerospace, oil and gas, and high-temperature industrial processes.
  • Chemical Compatibility:
    • Metal seals are compatible with a wide range of aggressive chemicals, including acids, bases, and solvents, where elastomeric seals may degrade or fail.
  • Leak Tightness:
    • Advanced metal seal designs provide excellent sealing performance under extreme conditions, offering a helium leak rate of 1x10⁻¹⁰ cc/sec or better.
  • Durability and Longevity:
    • Metal seals are less prone to wear, aging, and degradation over time, offering a longer service life than elastomers, particularly in harsh environments.
  • Pressure Handling:
    • Metal seals withstand high-pressure applications, often exceeding 20,000 psi, while maintaining seating load. 
  • Customization:
    • Metal seals can be tailored to meet specific design and performance requirements, including shapes, coatings, and material combinations (e.g., Inconel, stainless steel, or other nickel alloys).
  • Environmentally Friendly:
    • Unlike PFAS, metal seals do not persist in the environment or pose risks of contamination, making them a sustainable sealing solution.