How Thermoplastics Help Remediate PFAS in Valves for Future-Proof Compliance

The intensity around avoiding PFAS solutions in water treatment continues to build as global regulatory bodies seek to remove undesired substances from the environment. The primary challenge facing component and system manufacturers, though, is that fluorinated carbon chains are a primary material that makes up many products we use every day, including medical device applications, semiconductor manufacturing for use in computing devices, pesticides, and cleaning products, among many others (see figure 1 below).

Circle map with common sources of PFAS including shamppoos, fast food packaging, paints, pesticides, photography, firefighting foams, stain resistangt products, and non-stick cookwareCircle map with common sources of PFAS including shamppoos, fast food packaging, paints, pesticides, photography, firefighting foams, stain resistangt products, and non-stick cookware
Figure 1: Common sources of PFAS

In water treatment, fluorine (in the form of fluoride) can affect the efficacy of equipment depending on its form and concentration.

But because these materials are so stable, they persist in the environment and have been linked to human health concerns like increased cholesterol, lower antibody response to certain vaccines, changes in liver enzymes, and various types of cancer.

PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are chains of carbons entirely (perfluoroalkyl) or mostly (polyfluoroalkyl) saturated with fluorine atoms. Fluorine forms a strong bond with carbon, shielding the molecule from reacting and decomposing when in contact with other natural materials. Figure 2 shows the chemical structure of the two most problematic PFAS molecules, perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA). These chemicals are long-chain members of the PFAS family that are no longer produced in the US.

PFOS and PFOA structurePFOS and PFOA structure
Figure 2: PFOS and PFOA structure

Ball valve seats have historically been made from PTFE, a water treatment material currently under consideration to inclusion in PFAS definition. Thermoplastics, such as Ultra-High Molecular Weight High-Density Polyethylene (UHMWHDPE), now provide an advanced alternative for non-PFAS valve seats for new and existing systems.

While global authorities formalize how to regulate PFAS, industries have taken proactive measures to reduce or exclude PFAS from their systems. This article explores how thermoplastics enable non-PFAS valve seats, offering a sustainable solution to meet potential PFAS regulations now and in the future.

Challenges in Material Selection for Compliance

Adopting a proactive approach to designing PFAS out of valve seats comes with numerous challenges. Among these are:

  • Delivering both performance and regulatory compliance
  • Risks of groundwater contamination, the primary delivery mechanism of PFAS to humans
  • Limited availability of non-PFAS alternatives
  • High transition costs due to system redesign needs, component replacement, and training
  • Organizational resistance to change (given the above hurdles)

Non-PFAS Thermoplastic Valves

UHMWHDPE: A Non-PFAS Alternative

Ultra-high molecular weight high-density polyethylene (UHMWHDPE) is a superior alternative for low-PFAS valve seats. Known for its exceptional chemical resistance, durability, and low friction, UHMWHDPE provides a reliable solution for water treatment systems.

Unlike traditional materials, UHMWHDPE is entirely free of PFAS, meeting even the strictest environmental standards and mitigating PFAS concerns.

 

Application in TBH Series Ball Valves

Engineers developed UHMWHDPE valves as a substitute for PTFE while maintaining functionality. Three critical performance criteria are:

  • High chemical resistance, suitable for a wide range of water treatment applications.
  • Durable design, minimizing wear and extending service life.
  • Regulatory compliance: Meets international and EPA standards for non-PFAS materials.

Another popular option is the TBH Series True Union Ball Valves, which are known for their durability and reliability in diverse applications. These valves can handle rigorous demands while maintaining compliance with evolving standards, making them a strong choice for facilities aiming to avoid PFAS solutions.

Implementing Effective non-PFAS Strategies

How to Successfully Transition to non-PFAS Materials

  1. Conduct a comprehensive material audit: Evaluate existing components for PFAS content and identify areas for replacement. Targeting the highest PFAS material content delivers the highest remediation in the fastest way.

  2. Research alternative materials: Assess the suitability of alternative materials like UHMWHDPE for system-specific requirements.

  3. Collaborate with trusted suppliers: Consulting manufacturers with industry-specific expertise can ensure the material change will not compromise performance or quality.

  4. Plan phased implementation: Prioritize high-risk areas for immediate replacement while developing a long-term transition strategy, using the material audit as a blueprint.

  5. Monitor performance: Regularly assess the functionality and durability of non-PFAS components to ensure long-term success. Available components, but the best practice is to evaluate durability over time.

Benefits of Partnering with Specialized Manufacturers

There are additional benefits to partnering with an expert partner for non-PFAS flow control innovation (expanding on point 3 above).

Expert Support

Category leaders ensure their partners catch all the implementation details, ensuring smooth transitions to non-PFAS materials with minimal rework or disruption in the changeover, including material-specific considerations, codes and standards, and regulatory compliance items.

Custom Solutions and Innovation

Specialized manufacturers may also be able to solve application-specific custom solutions that meet unique system requirements. Combining design and technical support expertise helps you solve a design opportunity best, considering the entire system's response to a new component.

Building Long-Term Partnerships

Collaborating with a trusted manufacturer establishes a foundation for future innovation. The applications team learns your application and can be an extension of your technical team to keep your systems at optimal performance as regulations and industry needs change.

Use Cases for non-PFAS TBH Series Ball Valves

There are two primary use cases for non-PFAS valve seat materials:

  1. New construction

  2. Replacement (retrofit)

 

New Construction

For new water treatment facilities, incorporating non-PFAS valves during construction ensures compliance with current and [likely] future environmental regulations. In addition, the non-PFAS components from the start guards should be added to protect against any PFAS material leeching into the ground and polluting groundwater.

Additionally, starting with non-PFAS valves ensures a cost-optimized installation, preventing an additional retrofit step that may require a more expensive and lengthy service procedure. 

Retrofit/Replacement

Engineers can retrofit existing systems with TBH Series Ball Valves to design out materials falling under PFAS definition. 

In addition to removing PFAS material, retrofitting the system with a non-PFAS valve replacement modernizes the technology. It minimizes the surrounding area from any further PFAS contamination while complying with new or potential regulations. 

Facilities can also see gains in operational efficiency through the durability and low-maintenance advantages of UHMWHDPE seats.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  1. What are PFAS, and why are they harmful? PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances) are synthetic chemicals known for their durability and heat resistance. However, they persist in the environment and can contaminate groundwater, posing health risks such as cancer and liver damage.

     

  2. How do regulations impact the use of PFAS in water treatment systems? Regulatory bodies like the EPA have set strict limits on PFAS levels in drinking water. These regulations compel manufacturers to replace PFAS-containing components with compliant materials to avoid penalties and protect public health.

     

  3. What makes UHMWHDPE a better alternative to PFAS-containing materials? UHMWHDPE is non-PFAS and offers excellent chemical resistance, durability, and low friction. It meets the strictest environmental standards, making it a reliable choice for valve seats in water treatment systems.

     

  4. How can I transition my system to non-PFAS materials? Start by auditing existing components for PFAS content, researching alternative materials like UHMWHDPE, and collaborating with trusted suppliers. A phased implementation strategy can help manage costs and ensure smooth transitions.

     

  5. What are the benefits of using TBH Series Ball Valves in water treatment systems? TBH Series Ball Valves are designed with non-PFAS UHMWHDPE seats, ensuring regulatory compliance, minimizing groundwater contamination risks, and providing long-term cost savings through enhanced durability and performance.

     

  6. What challenges might I face when switching to non-PFAS valves, and how can I overcome them? Common challenges include identifying PFAS content, balancing costs, and ensuring compatibility with existing systems. Solutions involve detailed material testing, phased implementation, and selection of versatile products like TBH Series Ball Valves for seamless integration.