Flange Rescue Gaskets (FRG) from Flexitallic win first prize in the DuPont Plunkett Awards in the EMEA Region

Photo: DuPont/Flexitallic<br> The Flange Rescue Gaskets (FRG) from Flexitallic, which received first prize in the DuPont Plunkett Awards 2013 in the EMEA Region, allow the simple and cost-efficient replacement of damaged flange gaskets, and offer a unique maintenance solution for the chemical, oil and gas industries.<br>

The Plunkett Awards 2013 coincide with the 75th anniversary of the discovery of PTFE by DuPont scientist Dr. Roy Plunkett, and reward outstanding technical developments in the field of fluoroplastics. The presentation of the sculpture and the prize money of 7,500 USD was made by Ivo Erren, Account Manager PTFE EMEA, DuPont Chemicals & Fluoroproducts (DC&F), to Mark Horton, Managing Director Flexitallic.

Patented solution for inexpensive, leak-free seal

FRGs consist of a serrated metal ring coated with two multi-directionally structured PTFE materials (based on DuPont™ Teflon® 62N X). Through the high compressibility of the fluoroplastic coating, the seal can adjust to the damaged flange areas. This enables leak-free sealing with high blow-out resistance and can prevent further corrosion. In offshore oil and gas production, with their particularly stringent demands on workers, equipment and safety, these Flange Rescue Gaskets can help to cut the time and cost of maintenance work and thus reduce the number of business interruptions.

The bolt holes integrated into the corrosion-resistant metal facilitate installation and correct positioning of the gasket, thus eliminating installation errors, a major contributor to leakage offshore. Thanks to its extremely high mechanical strength, the entire torque range can be utilised, so that operating errors in tightening can be virtually excluded – an important prerequisite for compliance with the relevant health, safety and environmental regulations.

Russ Currie, Director of Engineering and Technology at Flexitallic and inventor of the FRG explains: “When conventional gaskets are used on corroded flange surfaces, leaks can occur in the connections and this will have a significant impact on the environment. Internal corrosion on flanges and damaged flange surfaces frequently leads to the release of hydrocarbons, especially with older installations. The FRG family of products is our solution to the problem, as these gaskets can be used not only to seal damaged flange surfaces, but also proactively in new plants and facilities to make sure that corrosion is not initiated in the first place.”

FRGs from Flexitallic have already proven themselves on offshore drilling rigs and applications in the North Sea. The latest types meet the requirements of the API SPEC 6FB fire test of the American Petroleum Institute for end-connections. The company’s portfolio includes gaskets for numerous ambient conditions, media and sealing applications.

The Flexitallic Group (www.TheFlexitallicGroup.com) is a global leader in specialised sealing solutions and products serving the oil and gas, power generation, chemical and petrochemical industries in emerging and developed markets. Focused on the upstream, downstream and power generation sectors, it has operations in France, the United States, Canada, Mexico, the United Kingdom, Germany, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Kazakhstan and China plus a network of worldwide licensing partners and distributors.

DuPont (NYSE: DD) has been bringing world-class science and engineering to the global marketplace in the form of innovative products, materials, and services since 1802. The company believes that by collaborating with customers, governments, NGOs, and thought leaders we can help find solutions to such global challenges as providing enough healthy food for people everywhere, decreasing dependence on fossil fuels, and protecting life and the environment. For additional information about DuPont and its commitment to inclusive innovation, please visit www.dupont.com.

The DuPont Oval logo, DuPont™, The miracles of science™ and all products denoted with ® or ™ are registered trademarks or trademarks of E.I. du Pont de Nemours and Company or its affiliates.

Note to the editor:
This press release is based on information provided by
Flexitallic Ltd.
Kathryn Payne
Phone: +44 1274 300 228
E-mail: kpayne@flexitallic.eu
www.flangerescuegasket.com; www.flexitallic.eu

Contact:
DuPont de Nemours (Deutschland) GmbH
Horst Ulrich Reimer
Public Relations Manager Europe, Middle East, Africa
Performance Chemicals & Fluoroproducts
Phone: +49 (0) 6102 18-1297
horst-ulrich.reimer@dupont.com

Media Contact

Horst Ulrich Reimer DuPont

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