What are Gaskets?

When it comes to ensuring the functionality and efficiency of various mechanical systems, choosing the right gasket is crucial. Gaskets are essential components that help prevent leaks and ensure a secure, tight seal between two surfaces. Gaskets are found all around us – at work, in cars, and even in phones.

Manufacturers make gaskets from materials like rubber, plastic, metal, or others, depending on the job. At IGP, we’ve used many different materials to create custom gaskets. 

What’s the difference between Gaskets and Seals?

People often confuse gaskets and seals because the word “seal” can be used in different ways. You might even hear people say “gasket seal” or “seal gasket” as if they mean the same thing. While both are used to prevent leaks, there’s a key difference between them.

  • Gaskets are used between two non-moving parts to prevent leaks. They are usually shaped to fit exactly into a fixed space and are made to stay in place. Gaskets are often flexible so they can fit tightly and create a strong seal even if the parts don’t move.
  • Seals, on the other hand, are used between moving parts—like the parts inside a faucet or engine. These are often round or flat and need to handle movement without leaking.

When are Gaskets Used?

Gaskets are used in all kinds of places where parts need to be sealed tightly and don’t move. You’ll find them in industries like food processing, petrochemicals, plumbing, machinery, and gas systems. In everyday life, gaskets are around too. You’ll see them in:

  • Water taps and windows
  • Refrigerator doors 
  • Pipes, pumps, and valves in workplaces

In hospitals and labs, gaskets help keep equipment sealed and clean. Things like IV bags, tubes, and catheters use gaskets to prevent leaks and stop germs from getting in. Machines like hospital dehumidifiers also rely on airtight gaskets to keep the air dry and clean.

In food factories, gaskets help keep things safe and clean. They prevent leaks and stop raw meat or drinks from mixing with other food during packaging.

What Are the Major Types of Gaskets?

There are several types of gaskets, each designed for specific applications. The choice of gasket depends on factors such as the environment, the materials being sealed, and the required pressure tolerance. Below are some of the major gasket types commonly used across industries:

1. Rubber Gaskets

Rubber gaskets are one of the most commonly used types of gaskets. They are highly versatile and can be used in various applications, including automotive, plumbing, and manufacturing. Rubber gaskets are made from materials such as neoprene, nitrile, and EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer).

Applications: HVAC systems, automotive engines, plumbing, and food processing.

2. Cork Gaskets

Cork gaskets are typically used in low-pressure applications and are popular in industries like automotive and machinery. They are made from compressed cork and rubber or other binders.

Applications: Automotive engines, industrial machinery, and refrigeration units.

3. Metal Gaskets

Metal gaskets are made from a combination of metals and are ideal for high-temperature and high-pressure applications. They are often used in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and chemical processing.

Applications: High-pressure boilers, chemical plants, and engine seals.

4. Spiral Wound Gaskets

Spiral wound gaskets consist of a combination of metal and filler material that is wound into a spiral shape. These gaskets are highly effective for sealing in environments where high pressure or temperature is involved.

Applications: Chemical processing, refineries, and power plants.

5. PTFE Gaskets

PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene) gaskets are made from a fluoropolymer material known for its non-stick, chemical-resistant properties. They are ideal for industries that require sealing against harsh chemicals and extreme temperatures.

Applications: Pharmaceutical, chemical, and food processing industries.

Which Industries Need Gaskets the Most?

Gaskets are vital components in many industries where sealing and preventing leaks are critical for safety, efficiency, and performance. Here are the primary industries that rely heavily on gaskets.

  • Automotive Industry
  • Oil and Gas Industry
  • Chemical and Pharmaceutical Industries
  • Food and Beverage Industry
  • Aerospace and Aviation Industry

Choosing the Right Gasket – What to Consider?

Before selecting a gasket, evaluate these critical factors:

🔹Temperature Range – Can the gasket withstand operating heat/cold?

🔹Pressure – Is it a low-pressure or high-pressure environment?

🔹Medium Compatibility – Will the gasket be exposed to oils, water, gas, or chemicals?

🔹Movement – Is it a static or dynamic system?

🔹Size and Fit – Does it match the flange or sealing surface exactly?

🔹Industry Certification – FDA, ISO, WRAS, or ASTM compliance may be required.

Conclusion

Choosing the right gasket is crucial for ensuring the efficiency, safety, and performance of your equipment. By understanding what gaskets are, how they are made, the different types available, and the industries that rely on them, you can make an informed decision that best meets your needs. For all your gasket requirements, trust IGP Group for high-quality products and exceptional service.

👍Contact us today and explore our wide range of gasket solutions designed to meet the needs of industries across the globe.