In order to prevent leakage between joined materials (e.g. in engines of cars) whilst under compression, gaskets are used as mechanical seals. In order to perform their purpose effectively, i.e. act as a seal, it is obvious that gaskets must be manufactured using a flexible material that can change shape and tightly fill the area it occupies. As such, gaskets are normally made of rubber, paper or cork. Other materials used to make gaskets are synthetic, silicone and custom engineered rubbers, as well as various types of plastics. These materials are shaped according to the particular specifications required.
The material used to make gaskets is also dependent upon the environment that the gasket will be subject to. For example, gaskets may be under high temperatures, under water in the sea or in contact to toxic chemicals. The gasket used must be able to withstand these conditions.
Although their use as mechanical seals is a common one, gaskets are also used for a wide range of other purposes that include packaging, sound and noise reduction, hygiene and for support and mountings. This is why gaskets can be found in a variety of products that are a part of multiple industries. Cars, planes, pumps, electrical equipment, boats and trains all use gaskets in one way or another.
Gaskets as a safety device
Gaskets are not only used to function as a seal. They also act as safety devices where if there is a problem in the system in which the gasket is installed, the system will fail to perform its function. This is vital to the safety of the entire system because if the gasket were not to have a simple failure as a response to pressure build up, an extreme consequence such as a burst pipe may occur. Such an explosion can cause huge losses, injuries and even loss of lives.
Maintenance requirements
Gaskets must be installed so that essential maintenance can be routinely carried out where the joined surfaces are unassembled, maintained, and then put together again. Hence, the gasket must have a long life and stay intact for a long period of time. This is again dependent upon choosing the right kind of material for the gasket's application.
Before selecting the right gasket for a particular application, it is vital to assess the particular needs of the application. This will ensure that the system performs optimally. Work with a local gasket supplier to learn more.