Test standards Alpine supports: NORSOK M710, ISO 23936-2, NACE TM0192, NACE TM0297, & custom methods
Rapid Gas Decompression (RGD), also known as Explosive Decompression, is an important issue with elastomers that are used in high-pressure environments.
RGD starts with the permeation and accumulation of gas into and surrounding our seals. When there is a loss in pressure outside the seal, the gas particles inside the seal will expand within the material and may cause damage. This escaping gas can create cracks, splits, and blisters in the material. Through a microscope, it is evident that these issues often originate at chemical flaw sites. A few examples of this damage can be seen below.
Damage like this can compromise equipment integrity, lead to downtime, and increase risk of hazards at job sites. For reliable long-term performance, it is crucial to use materials that have been tested and verified as RGD-resistant in applications where “failure is not an option.”
Choosing the right material for high-pressure environments is essential. RGD testing with Alpine Polytech ensures that your elastomers can withstand field conditions, keeping your operations safe and reliable.
Alpine Expanded Capabilities
Test conditions we support:
- Sour, Hazardous, Contaminated and Flammable gas mixtures
- Example gases include: CO2, H2S, CH4, H2, and NH3
- High Pressures (40,000 psi)
- Pressure cycles controlled with precise computer software
- Temperatures from cryogenic up to 400°C
Different gases can have different effects on permeation and decompression, so our tests can be performed with several gases and gas mixtures including sour, flammable, and hazardous gases at high pressures. The temperature of the tests at our facility can range from cryogenic to over 400°C. Computer software allows for precise control over different bleed rates and profiles, ensuring that your results are accurate.
Testing Details
ISO 23936-2 is a test that is performed at 100°C, with 15 MPa of pressure, across 8 cycles of pressurization and decompression. These cycles are designed to be completed within a one-week period. The material is then dissected, and damage is assessed and graded on a scale from 0 to 5.
NORSOK M710 Rev 3 is a standard that was developed by the Norwegian petroleum industry. It references ISO 23936-2 for RGD standards. The criteria for testing are the same.
NACE TM0192 is a test that is performed at room temperature in a pressure of 5.2 MPa of >99% CO2. The exposure period is 24 hours, and after decompression the sample is inspected externally and internally and graded on a scale of 1-4.
NACE TM0297 is a test that is performed at higher temperatures (50-230°C), higher pressures (7-38 MPa), and in a >99% CO2 environment. The test is performed over a 24-hour exposure period. The sample is then inspected internally and externally and graded on a scale of 1-4.