VALVE MAGAZINE Fall 2025

ADVANCED SEALING TECHNOLOGIES FOR SUBSEA

Key Concerns Beyond Leakage

Configuration Position Failed Seat Type

Main Effects

Cavity leakage, external vent relieves; no downstream leak if downstream holds.

Loss of redundancy; environmental vent risks; operational disruption.

DBB

Upstream

SPE

Downstream leakage, external vent partially relieves.

Isolation failure; safety/ environmental hazards.

DBB

Downstream

SPE

Cavity buildup vented externally; downstream DPE seals (no downstream leak).

Redundancy loss; fluid trapping.

DIB-1

Upstream

DPE

Downstream leakage possible; external vent relieves.

Isolation compromise; maintenance risks.

DIB-1

Downstream DPE

Cavity leakage, self-relieves upstream; downstream DPE seals (no downstream leak).

Redundancy loss; fluid cycling/wear.

DIB-2

Upstream

SPE

Downstream leakage; internal relief to upstream.

Isolation failure; environmental release.

DIB-2

Downstream DPE

There are numerous consequences to valve seat failures, especially in subsea, high-pressure applications.

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VALVE MAGAZINE

FALL 2025