Valve Material Selection Guide for Seawater, LNG and Corrosive Media

Industrial valve selection starts with the service conditions—not only the valve type. A valve body that performs well in clean water may not be appropriate for chloride-rich seawater, low-temperature LNG, abrasive slurry or chemically aggressive media. The wetted materials, sealing system and construction should be reviewed together.

1. Begin with the operating conditions

Before comparing materials, collect the process information that determines suitability:

• Medium composition, concentration and possible solids
• Normal and maximum operating temperature and pressure
• Valve size, end connection and pressure class
• Required leakage class, cycling frequency and actuation method
• Marine, cryogenic, fire-safe, anti-static or third-party certification requirements

2. Compare common valve materials

3. Select the seat and sealing system

Soft seats can support low leakage and efficient operation, while metal-seated designs may suit higher temperatures, abrasive media or specific process requirements. Seat selection is not a generic choice: EPDM, NBR, FKM and PTFE each have distinct application ranges. Packing, stem seals and gasket materials need the same review.

4. Match material selection to the valve category

Use the product category as a starting point, then confirm the exact configuration with your datasheet:

• Marine valves for shipbuilding, offshore and seawater-related systems
• Butterfly valves for shut-off and flow control duties
• Check valves for backflow prevention in pipelines and pump discharge lines
• Cryogenic valves for low-temperature LNG-related requirements
• Pneumatic pinch valves for slurry, abrasive and particle-containing media

Frequently asked questions