There are numerous types of mechanical seals for sealing the gaps between mating surfaces in the world of engineering. These highly intricate seals are used to stop leakage into or from the joints during compression or temperature changes in the fluid flow. Gaskets can be bought from a reputable teflex gasket company limited. The right gaskets should be self-sealing to some extent, as no engineer or plant operator wants to be around leaking or overflowing hazardous or toxic materials. When selecting the proper gasket for your sealings, it is important to consider the expected service of the gasket, the compatibility of the gasket material to the fluid being pumped, and the gasket material’s ability to withstand temperature and pressure changes in the target system. Let’s focus on the most popular types of gaskets.
Most common gasket dimension standards
The common global standards used to craft proper gaskets include:
- ASME B 16.21
This standard applies mostly for crafting non-metallic gaskets used in pipe flanges.
- BS 3381
This standard is used to craft gaskets of a metallic type, which are spiral wound.
- ASME B 16.20
This standard is used to craft metallic gaskets applied to pipe flanges.
Benefits of using gaskets
- A majority of gaskets can withstand aging, harsh weather, UV light, and ozone.
- Gaskets can handle extreme temperature changes without causing leakages or spilling.
- Some gasket materials can be used perfectly with petroleum-based fluids.
- Gaskets offer long service life while being stable and leaving no stains on window frames and surfaces.
- Gaskets are usually resistant to acids and are also highly impermeable to corrosive gases.
- The best gaskets are still able to function at a very low temperature in the presence of corrosive fluids.
Most popular types of gaskets
The best types of gaskets are made from one of three materials: composite, non-metallic, and metallic. Non-metallic gaskets include rubber gaskets, PTFE gaskets, fiber gaskets, and compressed non-asbestos gaskets.
Secondly, composite models include metal-jacketed gaskets, spiral-wound gaskets, and camprofile gaskets. Metallic models of gaskets include oval ring gaskets and octagonal ring gaskets.
- Non-metallic gaskets
These soft gaskets are most commonly crafted from PTFE, rubber, and compressed non-asbestos fiber. They can compress easily under low-tension bolting and are used in low-pressure environments such as 150 and 300 class, and low temperatures. Elastomer and rubber gaskets are not compatible with hydrocarbon fluids but can be utilized in utility lines. Non-metallic gaskets are the cheapest type of gasket available.
- Metallic gaskets
These types of joint sealers are crafted from low-carbon steel, soft iron, Monel, Inconel, and stainless steel. A majority of these types of gaskets are called ring gaskets. The most common use of metallic gaskets is in class flanges at a class higher than 900. Metallic gaskets are highly durable and sturdy, and thus costly compared to other types.
- Composite gaskets
These are gaskets crafted from non-metal and metal component combinations. The type of service the gasket will serve determines the material that will be used to craft composite gaskets. Popular models in this category include kamprofile gaskets, spiral wound, and metal jacketed gaskets.
Conclusion
Gaskets are a remarkable invention for sealing mating surfaces and preventing leakage of fluids and gases. The most popular gaskets in the market are non-metallic, metallic, or crafted from composite materials.
