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  • How to Ensure Compliance with API and NORSOK Standards in Sealing Solutions

    In the oil and gas industry, equipment integrity and operational safety are non-negotiable. From offshore drilling platforms to high-pressure processing facilities, every component must withstand harsh environments while meeting strict safety and performance criteria. For sealing solutions, this means ensuring full compliance with internationally recognised standards, such as API (American Petroleum Institute) and NORSOK (Norwegian Standards Organization for the petroleum industry).

    Let’s take a look at the key considerations for ensuring compliance with API and NORSOK standards in the design, manufacturing and application of sealing systems.

     

    Why API and NORSOK Standards Matter

    API and NORSOK standards serve as benchmarks for quality, safety and environmental protection in the oil and gas sector. They are widely adopted to minimise risk, streamline operations and ensure compatibility across equipment and processes.

    • API Standards focus on design, material selection, testing and performance criteria for components used throughout the oil and gas supply chain.
    • NORSOK Standards, developed by the Norwegian petroleum industry, emphasise cost-effectiveness and high safety margins, particularly for offshore installations.

    Non-compliance can lead to serious consequences, from equipment failure and environmental damage to operational downtime and legal penalties.

     

    Key Steps to Ensure Compliance

    Understand the Relevant Standards for Your Application

    API and NORSOK standards cover a wide range of topics. For sealing solutions, the most relevant typically include:

    • API 6A – Specifications for wellhead and Christmas tree equipment
    • API 17D – Subsea wellhead and tree equipment
    • API 682 – Mechanical seals for pumps
    • NORSOK M-710 – Qualification of non-metallic sealing materials and manufacturers

    Each of these standards outlines detailed requirements for design validation, material compatibility, pressure ratings, temperature performance and testing procedures.

     

    Select Materials That Meet or Exceed Standards

    Material selection is critical in sealing solutions, particularly under the extreme conditions found in the oil and gas industry, such as high pressure, aggressive chemicals and elevated temperatures.

    • For NORSOK M-710 compliance, materials must pass rigorous testing for rapid gas decompression (RGD) and sour gas (H₂S) resistance.
    • API standards also require materials to meet specific mechanical properties, corrosion resistance and chemical compatibility benchmarks.

    Tip: Always demand full traceability and test documentation from material suppliers.

     

    Partner with Certified Manufacturers and Suppliers

    Collaborating with partners who already meet API and NORSOK requirements significantly reduces compliance risk.

    Look for:

    • ISO 9001-certified quality management systems
    • API monogram licenses
    • Demonstrated capability to meet NORSOK qualification protocols
    • Proven track records in similar oil and gas applications

    Working with experienced manufacturers ensures your sealing systems are built for compliance from the ground up.

     

    Implement Robust Testing and Validation Protocols

    Testing is at the heart of both API and NORSOK standards. Ensure your sealing solutions undergo:

    • Type testing under simulated field conditions
    • Material qualification testing, including aging, thermal cycling and chemical exposure
    • Functional testing, including pressure, leak and endurance evaluations

    Document all procedures and maintain test records to support third-party audits or operator reviews.

     

    Stay Updated with Evolving Standards

    Standards are not static. Both API and NORSOK documents are periodically revised to reflect industry developments, new technologies and lessons learned from field failures.

    • Subscribe to standard updates
    • Engage in industry forums and standard committees
    • Regularly train your engineering and QA/QC teams on changes and implications

    Staying current helps your business maintain a competitive edge while ensuring long-term compliance.

     

    In summary…

    Compliance with API and NORSOK standards is more than just a tickbox exercise, it's essential for delivering reliable, safe and high-performance sealing solutions in the oil and gas industry. By understanding the standards, selecting the right materials, partnering with certified suppliers and validating through testing, sealing solution providers can ensure compliance and build lasting trust with customers.

    At M Seals, we deliver sealing systems that meet the world’s most demanding standards. Contact us today to learn how we can help you ensure compliance and maximise operational uptime.