The sealing performance of resilient Metal Seals is based on a the relative high specific contact load at the sealing line generated by the compression of the seal to a certain groove depth and a certain resiliency or spring back of the elastic metal seal.

Typically resilient metal seals are compressed 20%. As an example a 3,18 mm FH (free height) seal is compressed to approximately 2,5 mm.

In the figure compression starts at point A.

Point B illustrates the maximum groove depth. At this point the seating load already passed 90% of its maximum.

Point C illustrates the minimum groove depth, or the point where the seating load reaches its maximum. Reducing the groove depth even more and thus increasing the compression ratio can lead to seal failure.

Point D: At this point the seals’ resilience overcomes the remaining (decompression) load, this resilience is called springback.

Point E: Springback of the seal at 20% of the maximum load (Lmax) is the useful springback.

Point F: Springback of the seal at zero load is total springback = elastic recovery of the seal.

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Resilient metal seals from High Tech Metal Seals NV are used in the most extreme environmental conditions. Spring Energised Metal C Rings are used under extreme conditions where temperature can range from cryogenic up to extreme high temperatures, such as 800°C.
To serve the harsh conditions in today’s Oil and Gas exploration, High Tech Metal Seals NV designs and manufactures resilient metals seals which comply and exceed the ISO 15848 leakage requirements for valves intended for application with volatile air pollutants and hazardous fluids. High Tech Metals Seals are manufactured from high alloy materials so that the finished product complies with NACE MR0175 requirements. Silver plated Metal O rings or Metal C Rings, because of ductile layer are successfully used in high vacuum applications. Silver plated or PTFE coated spring energised C Rings and Metal C Rings comply and exceed the ISO 15848 leakage requirements, from cryogenic temperatures up to extreme high temperatures and pressures. In nuclear applications, particle research, and other radiation application, typically high load resilient metal seals, such as spring energized metal C Rings or Metal O Rings, with a ductile layer of silver are successfully used. High Tech Metal Seals NV, seals for extreme environmental conditions are particularly suited for high pressure. The system pressure assist in maintaining intimate contact with the mating flanges.