July 2, 2024
Gaskets are integral components in numerous mechanical and industrial systems, functioning as seals that fill the space between two or more mating surfaces to prevent leakage of fluids or gases. Their role is crucial in maintaining the integrity and efficiency of various operations, ensuring that systems run smoothly without interruptions caused by leaks. Predominantly employed in high-pressure systems, gaskets rely on the applied force during the assembly of components to facilitate the formation of an effective seal.
What Are Gaskets Made Of?
Gaskets are manufactured from a diverse range of materials, each selected based on the specific requirements of the application they are intended for. Common materials include rubber, metal, and composites. Durlon®, offers gaskets made from materials such as PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene), non-asbestos fibers, flexible graphite, metallic, and compressed non-asbestos sheets. These materials are chosen for their exceptional properties, including chemical resistance, thermal stability, and mechanical strength. PTFE, for instance, is highly resistant to a wide range of chemicals and can withstand high temperatures, making it ideal for use in aggressive environments. Non-asbestos fibers provide a safe alternative to asbestos, offering high-temperature resistance and durability.
What Are Gaskets Used For?
Gaskets are used to seal joints in piping systems by being placed between flanges that are then tightly bolted together. Serving a wide array of functions across various industries, gaskets are essential components. In the oil and gas industry, gaskets are used in pipeline systems to ensure leak-free transportation of fluids and gases under high pressure. Chemical processing plants rely on gaskets to seal joints in piping systems, preventing hazardous chemical leaks and ensuring the safety of the plant and its workers. Durlon® gaskets, with their diverse material composition and superior quality, are particularly suited for these applications, providing reliable sealing solutions in demanding industrial environments.
Why Are Gaskets Important?
The importance of gaskets in mechanical and industrial systems cannot be overstated. They are critical in maintaining the efficiency, safety, and longevity of equipment by preventing leaks that could lead to system failures, environmental hazards, or dangerous working conditions. In high-pressure and high-temperature applications, such as in chemical plants, power generation facilities, and refineries, the failure of a gasket can have catastrophic consequences, including explosions, fires, and severe environmental contamination. Therefore, the reliability of gaskets is paramount.
Durlon® gaskets are renowned for their reliability and longevity. We manufacture a wide variety of gaskets, including industry-leading PTFE, spiral wound, metal gaskets and semi-metallic gaskets for a variety of applications. Contact us for more information and to see which of our solutions will best suit your applications.