Patent ID: 8608173

Claim:
A dual stage method for sealing fluid flow between first and second fueldraulic components, the method comprising: placing a seal member in a gland of the first fueldraulic component, wherein the seal member comprises a spring energized metallic member having a V-shaped cross section and top and bottom surfaces and including a polymeric layer disposed on each of the top and bottom surfaces, wherein the top and bottom surfaces become flat when a compressive force is applied perpendicularly on the surfaces; and placing the second fueldraulic component on the first fueldraulic component, thereby compressing the seal member between the first and second fueldraulic components; operating the seal member to provide sealing contact between the polymeric layers and the fueldraulic components during a first stage operating mode for temperatures up to about 600 degree Fahrenheit; and operating the seal member to provide sealing contact between the flat top and bottom surfaces and the fueldraulic components during a second stage operating mode for temperatures above 600 degree Fahrenheit when the polymeric layer melts away.