What is ‘crush strength’ when referring to gaskets?

For a gasket to seal under installed conditions, a minimum stress value is necessary. This value should include the relaxation that will occur during the gasket’s installed life. To prevent damage, it also has a maximum stress value that should not be exceeded, its crush strength. When a gasket’s crush strength is exceeded, the properties that provide the seal break down. An optimized solution targets a stress level that is as high as possible above its minimum value but a comfortably safe margin below its maximum value and a value that may cause a problem to the bolts or flanges. View our gasket installation video to learn more.