IPI Packers is pleased to announce the publication of a peer-reviewed research paper in the Australian Energy Producers Journal (AEP Journal) titled “Effects of solvent exposure and oil oxidation on HNBR elastomer performance in high-temperature inflatable packers.“
The paper, authored by Hazim Haroosh, Francis Ford, Clem Rowe, Oliver Fry, and Soroush Tehrani, presents findings from IPI Packers’ ongoing research, development, and quality control programs focused on improving the reliability and performance of inflatable packer systems operating in challenging high-pressure, high-temperature (HPHT) environments.
This work forms part of IPI’s routine R&D and quality control investigations aimed at improving packer performance from the early stages of manufacturing through to final product testing and performance validation. The study examines how common manufacturing solvents, oxidised test oils, elevated temperatures, mechanical strain, and material defects influence the performance of HNBR elastomers used in inflatable packers. The findings demonstrate that even short-term exposure to solvents and degraded oils can significantly affect tear strength, hardness, elongation, and overall sealing reliability.
The research highlights the importance of controlling solvent exposure, monitoring oil ageing, and minimising deformation throughout manufacturing, qualification testing, and performance validation to maintain the long-term integrity of inflatable packer elements.
In addition to the journal publication, Hazim Haroosh, R&D Engineer at IPI Packers’ Rubber Lab, presented the research at the Australian Energy Producers 2026 Conference as part of Session 16: The Frontier Below: Taming the Subsurface.
This publication reflects IPI Packers’ ongoing commitment to engineering excellence, product quality, reliability, and the advancement of inflatable packer technology through research-driven development.
Read the full paper: https://connectsci.au/ep/article/66/1/EP25189/268531/Effects-of-solvent-exposure-and-oil-oxidation-on
Stuart recently joined IPI as the Director of Oil and Gas, bringing with him 15 years of diverse experience in the industry, with a strong focus on inflatable packers. His extensive background encompasses a variety of roles, including field engineering, operations management, sales, and business development. This breadth of expertise, coupled with his international experience in markets across North America, Europe, Australia, and the Middle East, positions Stuart to effectively lead and expand IPI’s oil and gas operations on a global scale. Stuart holds a Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Aberdeen and a Master’s degree in Finance from City University of London. His robust technical foundation and financial acumen uniquely empower him to drive strategic initiatives and foster growth within the company.
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