Future plans include expanding the test matrix to include all candidate nonmetallic materials for compressor applications. The Grade A and B carbon-filled PTFE materials have been employed as test standards. All testing reported herein was performed in air. A compressed air supply was employed to somewhat minimize humidity variations that are expected to significantly affect wear rates. The compressor air passes through a carbon filter to remove any oil or other contaminants.
Testing is conducted at atmospheric pressure.
Equipment and Procedure Schematic diagrams detailing the reciprocating wear test facility are presented in Figures 1-4. The purpose of each packing fixture assembly is to spring load and locate a nonmetallic test specimen against one of two stationary counterfaces. The test specimen geometry is typical of a compressor piston rod packing ring segment.