What Are the Materials Used in Construction of Diaphragm Valves?

Materials Used in Diaphragm

Usually, an elastic, flexible material is used to create the diaphragm. These materials, however, have a restriction on the diaphragm valve's temperature and pressure rating since they become brittle at high pressures and temperatures.

Based on the service temperature and pressure, the type of material being handled, and the frequency of operation, the appropriate diaphragm material must be selected.

EPDM - Ethylene Propylene Diene Rubber

A synthetic, all-purpose rubber, EPDM, is made of ethylene propylene diene monomer. It can handle acids, alkalis, and alcohols and has good corrosion resistance.

Additionally, it can withstand ozone. It is incompatible with oil and petroleum-based goods, though. Additionally appropriate for steam sterilization is EPDM.

The operating range for EPDM diaphragms is -20°F to 230°F.

PTFE - Polytetrafluoroethylene

Teflon, also referred to as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), is a synthetic fluoropolymer. Strong acids, alkalis, and solvents can be handled with ease thanks to its exceptional corrosion and chemical resistance.

Although it requires a greater force to operate, its rigidity generates a strong sealing force. The operating range of PTFE diaphragms is -300F to 3000F.

PTFE is reinforced with glass fibers to improve its compressive strength, wear and abrasion resistance, and pressure rating.

Neoprene

In wastewater pipes, neoprene, a type of synthetic rubber, is frequently utilized as a diaphragm material. It is effectively resistant to abrasion and corrosion.

As well as fluids with entrained oils, acids, alkalis, petroleum, explosives, and fertilizers can all be handled by it.

Neoprene diaphragms function in the range of -20°F to 200°F.

Butyl Rubber

Due to its low vapor and gas permeability, butyl rubber is perfect for use with gaseous media. It can withstand a range of acids and alkalis and is also appropriate for steam sterilization.

The operating range of butyl rubber diaphragms is -4 to 248 °F.

Nitrile Rubber

A versatile rubber with good strength and abrasion re sistance is nitrile. Acetones, ketones, ozone, and some modified hydroc arbons are not compatible with it, although it can ma nage gases, fuels, fats, oils, alcohols, and petroleum. The operating range of nitrile rubber diaphragms is14 to 134 °F.

Natural Rubber

Natural rubber has strong resistance to abrasion and can withstand mild acids and alkalis. Abrasives, weak mineral acids, and brewing all use natural rubber diaphragms. Between -40°F and 134°F, these diaphragms function.

Viton

A fluorocarbon elastomer is called Viton. Even at high temperatures, it exhibits exceptional resistance to and compatibility with the majority of chemicals, solvents, and oils.

However, handling ammonia and polar solvents as well as steam sterilization are not advised. The operating range of Viton diaphragms is -20 to 300 °F.

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