The Ensinger semi-finished thermoplastics products in Victrex Peek resin achieved compliance for use in oil & gas applications according to EN ISO 23936-1:2009 and Norsok M-710, Edition 3. Ensinger tested Tecapeek natural and Tecapeek GF30 natural by Victrex for sour fluid resistance, based on the required procedures for the selection and qualifications of non metallic polymers/thermoplastics materials, for application in oil and gas production. The aggressive and harsh conditions for tests included temperatures up to 240°C, pressure up to 300 bar and exposition time up to 60 days, as well as high H2S levels (10% H2S in a 30% gas phase).
Testing included swelling, visual inspection and tensile tests, all successfully passed proving that Tecapeek grades are fully acceptable for both ISO and Norsok requirements. The results on the Tecapeek stock shapes and the Victrex Peek base resin are very consistent, giving evidence that polyetheretherketone is the material of choice for many oil & gas industry applications, especially for a broad range of highly stressed parts in extreme environments, such as bearings, seals, back-up rings or subsea connectors. Fiber-reinforced grades are instead suitable for use in parts which are exposed to high static loads, over long periods in high temperature conditions.