The 7 Steps of the Metal Seal Customization Process

Date: November 20, 2024

Abstract

Metal seals (also known as metal ring seals) are static sealing devices capable of withstanding extreme temperatures, pressures, and vacuums. They are suitable for cryogenic temperatures and can endure numerous thermal cycles.

Different applications require different metal seals due to variations in operating temperature, pressure, medium, and flange size. As a result, there is no industry standard for metal seals, and customization is often necessary. If you're seeking to use metal seals in your application, you might find that obtaining the right seals can be time-consuming or complex.

This article introduces the seven steps of the metal seal customization process from a customer's perspective. Based on these steps, we explain how Sonkit works with customers to expedite the process while reducing costs and maintaining quality.

Step 1: Investigate Application

Metal seal design is a systematic process. A thorough investigation into your application is the foundation of successful metal seal customization. Understanding the specific requirements ensures that the seal will perform effectively under the intended operating conditions.

We recommend using the "Metal Seal Application Data Sheet - Sonkit". This data sheet is based on our ten years of experience working with customers across various industries. It is straightforward and easy to understand, allowing you to quickly collect the necessary information and develop a preliminary solution for your application.

Step 2: Generate an Inquiry

With your completed metal seal application data sheet from Step 1, it's time to generate an initial inquiry. The cost of metal seals is determined by type, material, and size. Other factors like required spring-back and leak rate will also affect the price. Therefore, identifying the best-fit solution, rather than the best possible solution, is crucial to save on budget.

The "Sonkit Metal Seal Design Guide" is a concise and comprehensive resource that will help you develop a solution for your specific application. In the design guide, you'll find all the necessary data, drawings, and instructions. Even if you're new to metal seals, this guide will help you familiarize yourself with the essentials quickly.

Step 3: Confirm Solution & Receive Quote

After developing an initial solution in Step 2, you'll contact a metal seal manufacturer to confirm feasibility and obtain a cost estimate. This step may involve revising your metal seal or groove design based on expert feedback.

Sonkit offers technical support within 12 hours to help you analyze the solution and identify the optimal approach quickly. We also provide drawings and technical guides at no charge to assist you.

For inquiries, Sonkit provides quotations within 24 hours.

You can contact Sonkit Sales for metal seal inquiries via:

• Email: johnny@sonkit.cn
• Phone/WhatsApp: +86 13917192435

Step 4: Place a Purchase Order

Once the solution and quotation are confirmed, the next step is to place a purchase order.

In the purchase order, it's important to specify:

• Lead time (desired shipment date)
• Delivery address
• Payment terms and currency
• Preferred delivery service (include your company account if applicable)

Sonkit has developed automated production lines and a mature production process, allowing us to not only assure product quality but also reduce lead times as much as possible.

The average lead time at Sonkit for a first purchase is four weeks. For subsequent orders, it can be as short as two weeks.

Step 5: Tooling and Production

This is the manufacturing phase. If this is a new order, Sonkit will develop the necessary tooling/molds to fit the size of the metal ring seals. The processing complexity varies depending on the type of metal seals, and the number of molds can range from 2 to 10 or more.

Sonkit maintains stock of common materials such as SS316 and Inconel 718. If your application requires rare materials, additional time may be needed to procure them.

If you're unsure whether the materials required for your application are in stock, please check with Sonkit Sales via:

• Email: johnny@sonkit.cn
• Phone/WhatsApp: +86 13917192435

Step 6: Testing and Packaging

Sonkit conducts thorough inspections on each metal seal unit. The package will include an inspection report. If you require additional testing for metal seals, such as leak rate, hardness, or material analysis, please inform your sales representative in advance.

Our quality assurance process ensures that all custom metal seals meet the stringent requirements of your application.

Step 7: Delivery and Support

Sonkit will arrange delivery based on your preferences. We provide technical assistance for your deployment 24 hours a day, seven days a week. For sample testing, if the leak rate exceeds the required level due to issues with our products, we take full responsibility and offer a free replacement.

Our commitment to customer satisfaction sets us apart as a leading metal seal manufacturer in China.

Summary

Metal seals are critical components in various industries, capable of withstanding extreme temperatures, pressures, and vacuums. Since there is no industry standard, customization is often necessary for each application. Sonkit assists customers in expediting the entire metal seal customization process while reducing costs and maintaining quality.

By choosing Sonkit, you gain a trusted partner for all your metal sealing solutions, ensuring reliability and performance in your operations.