Specifically Made for Alberta's Needs: The ZSML Fitting

Swagelok 1035 Grade Carbon Steel, MoS₂ coating helps the tube fittings withstand the heat of steam-assisted gravity drainage

Swagelok's ZSML fitting, as pictured above, is specially coated with a 1035 Grade Carbon Steel, MoS₂ covering that was developed for the SAGD industry in Northern Alberta. If you would like more information on this product line, get in touch with us today.

Eighty percent of Alberta's oil sands are too far below the surface for open pit mining. To get the oil out, companies have to use methods such as steam-assisted gravity drainage. And for SAGD to work properly, it needs parts such as Swagelok's ZSML fitting. To understand why ZSML fittings are so important, take a quick look at how SAGD works.

Get moving

SAGD uses a pair of horizontal wells, one about 4 to 6 metres above the other. Steam is injected into the upper well, heating up the surrounding oil. That makes the oil less viscous. Gravity then draws the oil down to the second well, where it can be extracted.

The fittings on the steam generators must withstand high temperatures, and even Swagelok's ordinary carbon steel fitting won't do. That's why Swagelok came up with the ZSML fitting. This unique coating (1035 Grade Carbon Steel, MoS₂) allows the fitting to withstand temperatures of up to 427 degrees C! But you won't find it in any Swagelok catalogue as it was designed specifically for Alberta and our extreme conditions. Swagelok even sent its engineers to SAGD sites to see the field conditions before creating the ZSML fitting. 

Inside knowledge

You might wonder how our customers know how to order the ZSML fittings if they aren't in the catalogue. Most of those who are involved in setting up SAGD systems are already familiar with this special fitting. We also can provide a value added service of going into the field to teach maintenance and repair crews about this specific part if needed.

Maybe you have a special need and can't find the kinds of parts you are looking for. Don't assume that the catalogue tells you everything you'd want to know. Give Edmonton Valve & Fitting a call. We might know of a component that will do the job for you. And it's even possible that Swagelok would be willing to design something if it doesn't already exist.  Ask us about the ZSML fitting here.

Additional resources

• Calipers, Combs, And Guides Help Make Sense of Threads
• Swagelok Tube Fitting Advantage Still Strong after 67 Years
• Seek Suppliers That Help You Prepare for Recovery

In a hurry or have a question? Please click here to get in touch - we respond fast! Or call 780.437.0640