Parker Hannifin Corporation has received patent approval for an extreme temperature seal for SAE J1926 and ISO 6149 ports. This innovation is sad to represent a lower-cost alternative to welding components together or purchasing special fittings for applications that experience severe high or low working temperatures from 649degC (1200degF) - eg combustion to -150degC (-238degF) - eg cryogenics.
Jointly developed by Parker's Tube Fittings and Instrumentation Products Divisions, the extreme temperature seal takes advantage of inexpensive port designs such as SAE J1926 and ISO 6149, as well as widely available standard fittings.
In Parker's patented design, a metal seal replaces the elastomer O-ring to create a metal-to-metal seal between the port chamfer and fitting undercut. Parker's seal is therefore not restricted by the relatively narrow working temperature range and limited chemical compatibility of standard O-rings. As a result, assemblies can be made without the added cost of special port designs, non-standard fittings and/or the fabrication of unique parts. Also avoided is the time and expense of welding.
As with standard O-rings, the metal seal can be replaced after disassembling the male stud from the port (therefore both the port and male stud are reusable). Unlike standard O-rings, however, which can be extruded under high pressure, Parker's metal seal - when trapped between the male undercut and female chamfer - acts like a spring, pressing against both components. Internal pressure exerted on the fitting pushes the seal against the undercut and the chamfer even harder, resulting in tighter sealing. It is this pressure-energised, self-helping sealing concept that ensures reliable performance at high pressures.
For more information, contact Parker's Tube Fittings Division or go to www.parker.com/tfd.