What is a Valve Seat?
Valve seats play a big role in ensuring the longevity of industrial systems. They prevent leakage and maintain system integrity under extreme conditions.
At AFT, we specialise in manufacturing high-quality valve seats, using advanced materials such as PTFE valve seats and PEEK valve seats. Our products are tailored to meet the demands of industries like aerospace, automotive, and food processing.
Products Include
- Seats and seat inserts
- Thrust washers and backup rings
- Stem packings
- High-performance spring energised body seat and stem seals
-
PTFE
Being hydrophobic, non-wetting, high density and resistant to high temperatures, PTFE is an incredibly versatile material with a wide variety of applications, though it's perhaps best-known for its non-stick properties.
-
VICTREX PEEK
It is a linear, aromatic, semi-crystalline polymer widely regarded as one of the highest performing thermoplastics in the world. It provides a unique combination and range of high performance properties.
Make use of our team to create the valve seats that are right for your project
We've been working with clients across the world to create valve seats and other precision plastic components for many years. Our team can advise you on the best choice of material for your application and even help design a bespoke material for you.
Valve Seat Material SELECTION
The most common fluoropolymer application is in process valves. We provide valve seats, manufactured from our AF range of materials, including PTFE and filled PTFE, VICTREX PEEK and filled PEEK materials, PEEK HT, Vespel®, PCTFE, Nylon and Acetal.
We have a broad range of valve seat materials to suit your application, have a look at the table below or call us on 01992 515880 to talk to us in more depth about your project.
You can also find individual datasheets in our Materials Section.
| Material Name | Main Properties | Notes | Temperature Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| VIRGIN PTFE | Very low coefficient of friction and excellent chemical resistance. | FDA approved | -40°C to 260°C |
| 15% Glass Filled PTFE | Decreased compressive strength and lower deformation under load than virgin PTFE. | Abrasive material | -40°C to 260°C |
| 25% Glass Filled PTFE | Similar to 15% Glass better wear resistance, higher compressive strength and lower deformation under load. | Abrasive material | -40°C to 260°C |
| Stainless Steel Filled PTFE | Extremely hard wearing. Excellent strength and stability under extreme loads and elevated temperatures. | Can be used on steam and thermal fluid applications | -40°C to 260°C |
| TFM | Much denser polymer structure than Virgin PTFE. Displays better stress recovery. | Modified TFE Polymer | -40°C to 260°C |
| Carbon Graphite filled TFM | Lower thermal expansion-contraction rate than conventional TFM. | Ideal for use on steam and thermal fluid applications | -40°C to 260°C and even 320°C on Thermal Fluid applications |
| UHMWPE | Highly resistant to corrosive chemicals, with the exception of oxidising acids and organic solvents. | Also known as High Modulus Polyethylene (HMPE) or High Performance Polyethylene (HPPE) | -40°C to +80°C |
| PCTFE | Excellent for cryogenic and Oxygen use. | A homo-polymer of Chlorotrifluoroethylene | -270°C to 260°C |
| Virgin PEEK 450G | Excellent chemical resistance and mechanical properties at elevated temperatures. | An organic polymer thermoplastic | -40°C to 260°C |
| Carbon Filled PEEK | Many similar properties to Virgin PEEK. Particularly suitable for elevated temperatures and high load situations. | Low coefficient of friction and suitable for many extremely corrosive applications | -40°C to 260°C |
| PEEK HT | Retains all key features and benefits of PEEK 450G but retains physical properties to a higher temperature. | Can be supplied in both virgin unfilled or as filled compounded material | up to 260°C |
| Acetal and Delrin | Displays good resistance to wear and deformation under load. | Excellent for valve seat applications | up to 80°C |
| VESPEL | A polyimide material that has high temperature capabilities under load and is mainly used for heat transfer applications, hot gases and oils. | Must not be used with STEAM |
Valve Seats
Contact us to discuss our valve seats services.
Our team are happy to answer any questions you have about using our products and services in your next project. Fill in your details below and we'll be in touch.
Types of Valve Seats We Manufacture
At AFT, we design and manufacture various types of valve seats to meet the needs of diverse industries:
- Seat for butterfly valve: Ideal for applications requiring smooth flow control.
- Ball valve seats: Known for their excellent sealing capabilities.
- Custom valve seats: Engineered for unique industrial systems.
Each type is precision-engineered to deliver reliable performance in specific use cases, from high-pressure environments to applications requiring extreme chemical resistance.
Custom Valve Seats for Gate and Butterfly Valves
AFT specialises in producing custom valve seats for a wide range of applications, including gate and butterfly valves. Our solutions are designed to excel in high-pressure environments and reduce maintenance costs through advanced fluoropolymer coatings.
Functions of Valve Seats
Valve seats are engineered to provide superior sealing performance and durability. Key functions include:
- Extreme toughness: Withstands high pressures and temperatures during operation.
- Excellent wear resistance: Resists excessive wear under high heat and weight.
- Sealing: Ensures a tight seal, preventing leaks and maintaining system efficiency.
By combining advanced materials and precision engineering, AFT’s valve seats deliver reliability and performance.
Valve Seats in Cylinder Heads
Valve seats are integral to the performance of cylinder heads in engines, where they ensure a proper seal between the valve and the combustion chamber. Materials like PTFE and PEEK are ideal for handling high pressures and temperatures.
Precision Engineering for Customised Valve Seats
AFT’s advanced manufacturing techniques allow us to produce custom valve seats with precision. From design to delivery, our team works closely with clients to develop solutions tailored to specific dimensions, tolerances, and performance needs.
Why Choose AFT for Custom Valve Seats:
- Expertise in fluoropolymer coatings and seals such as PTFE and PEEK.
- Custom manufacturing solutions for specialised requirements.
- End-to-end production capabilities to ensure quality and reliability.
Whether you need valve seats for aerospace, automotive, or food processing industries, AFT’s custom solutions ensure superior performance.
Exploring the Advantages of Low Temperature PAEK Valves
In response to the global PCTFE resin shortfall, we, at AFT Fluorotec, have recommended PAEK AF825 as a superior alternative for low-temperature PAEK valves. This remarkable material offers enhanced strength, thermal conductivity, dimensional stability, and reduced friction coefficient compared to PCTFE. With its exceptional chemical resistance and durability inherited from PEEK, PAEK AF825 proves to be a game-changer for cryogenic applications. As the shortage persists, our innovative solution ensures reliable and high-performance valve materials.
Fluorotec Reassures Customers: PTFE Use Unlikely to Be Restricted by PFAS
In this article, we provide information about our use of PTFE and its derivatives at Fluorotec in light of growing concerns surrounding Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). We want to reassure our customers that our use of PTFE is unlikely to be restricted by PFAS regulations.
PTFE COATING SERVICES FOR BUTT FUSION AND HOT PLATE WELDING
Providing a rapid turnaround coating service for rental equipment providers servicing the gas and water industry.
