Gasket Manufacturers

About Gaskets

Gaskets are mechanical components used to seal vacant spaces between two objects. Liquids, fluids or gases, when stored at high pressure and temperature, often leak due to sudden changes in pressure or temperature. Gaskets are used with sealants to prevent such leakages. Rubber, silicone, felt and other plastic polymers are used in fabricating gaskets. Gaskets can be designed to endure electromagnetic interference and other obstructions due to various frequencies.

Considerations for gaskets

Selecting a gasket appropriate to the requirements and specifications is very important, as it is helpful in preventing loss due to leakages.

• The material used to manufacture the gasket is of prime importance. The material should be fiber that it is able to bear compressive forces exerted by the fluids.
• The gasket should be designed so that it tightly fits the two objects, thus preventing any spillage.
• Most industrial gaskets have pressure-exerting bolts that apply a compression of about 20,000 psi. It is desirable to look for this specification issued by the manufacturer.
• The gasket material must be chemically inert to the surfaces where the gasket is used as a sealant.
• Temperature resistance, sealing performance, pressure needs and gasket geometry are some of the parameters that should be considered when selecting a gasket.

Types of gaskets

Depending on the assembly and application, gaskets are available in several types.

• Composite gaskets - fabricated using paper, cork, and rubber. These are used with adhesives for custom applications.
• Flange gaskets - tooth like structures projecting outwards facilitate the fitting process in these types of gaskets.
• Solid metal gaskets - manufactured using solid metal, these are used in extreme temperature and pressure applications.
• Spiral wound gaskets - a thin strip of metal and a nonmetallic filler are wound together to make a spiral wound gaskets.

Other types of gaskets include corrugated gaskets, die cut gaskets, encapsulated gaskets, envelope gaskets, fiber seal rings, foam gaskets, laminated gaskets, etc.

Gaskets are used in broad industry applications like: aerospace and aeronautics, automotive, electronics, military and transportation industries. Some specific applications include: airframes, appliances, business machines, compressors, elevators, escalators, medical equipment, meters, turbines and valves.