Rapid gas decompression (RGD) resistance is an extremely important property of elastomers in the oil and gas industry.

Rapid gas decompression (RGD) often occurs when high pressure gas molecules are transferred to the elastomer under compression. When the pressure around the elastomer is suddenly released, the compressed gas in the elastomer will expand and leave the elastomer, causing RGD. When the force of these expanding gases is greater than the strength of the surrounding materials, most of the elastomers will have serious blistering or cracking, which in turn rapidly causes fissuring and seal failure. But materials designed to withstand RGD are more likely to retain their integrity during the process.

RGD-resistant elastomers are widely used as seals and gaskets in compressor and downhole applications where high-pressure gas may be surrounded for long periods of time. Leaks and excessive cracking can lead to unnecessary downtime due to the need for unscheduled maintenance, creating health, safety and environmental concerns and significant loss of production time.

Rapid Gas decompression (RGD) seals are typically used in high pressure applications encountered in the Oil and Gas industry.

High pressure and high temperature O-ring compounds are specially formulated to resist this type of failure and withstand rapid gas decompression. These types of O-rings are commonly referred to as RGD, ED resistant or AED (explosion proof) O-rings. The most common material of RGD certified O-ring is Viton ® Or FKM. However, RGD O-rings can also be made from HNBR, AFLAS® and FFKM materials.

JST Seals supplies wide range of approved RGD or AED O-rings & Seals. Please contact us to find out more information on RGD or AED seals or to place your order.