Custom Gaskets for OEM Manufacturers and Global Exporters

Key Takeaways

• Function: A gasket fills and seals micro-irregularities between two mating flange surfaces under compression to create a leak-tight barrier.
• Material choice is decisive: Temperature, pressure, and chemical compatibility determine whether a non-asbestos, graphite, PTFE, rubber, or semi-metallic gasket is suitable.
• Core parameters: Thickness, compressibility, recovery, creep relaxation, tensile strength, and seating stress govern long-term seal reliability.
• Common failure cause: Improper material selection and incorrect bolt torque—not gasket defects—cause the majority of sealing failures.
• Best practice: Never reuse a compressed gasket; always install a new one during flange reassembly.

• Thickness: Standard thicknesses range from 0.5 mm (0.020") to 3.0 mm (1/8"). Thinner gaskets offer higher stress but less conformability; thicker gaskets are more compressible for uneven surfaces.
• Density / Specific Gravity: Measured in g/cm³. Affects compressibility, recovery, and sealing force. Higher density often correlates with better blow-out resistance.
• Compressibility: The percentage reduction in thickness under a defined load (ASTM F36). Indicates how well the gasket will conform to flange faces.
• Recovery: The percentage of thickness regained after the compressive load is released (ASTM F36). High recovery is vital for maintaining a seal under thermal cycling or pressure fluctuations.
• Tensile Strength: The maximum tensile stress a material can withstand (ASTM F152). Important for handling and installation integrity.
• Creep Relaxation: The loss of clamping force over time under constant temperature and compression (ASTM F38). Low creep relaxation is critical for long-term seal maintenance.
• Maximum Recommended Seating Stress: The flange pressure (in MPa or psi) required to properly seat the gasket and initiate an effective seal.
• Temperature & Pressure Ratings: The continuous and peak operating limits for the material. Always consult Kaxite Sealing's detailed charts for specific media compatibility.
• Fluid / Chemical Compatibility: Determined by the material's resistance to swelling, degradation, or chemical attack from the sealed medium.

Q: What is the primary cause of gasket failure?

A: Improper material selection for the temperature, pressure, or chemical media, plus inadequate or uneven bolt torque during installation.

Q: How do I determine the correct bolt torque for my gasket installation?

A: Use the gasket manufacturer's recommended seating stress along with flange size, bolt grade, and lubrication. Apply the formula T = (K × D × F) / 12 and always follow a cross-pattern tightening sequence.

Q: Can I reuse a gasket after it has been compressed?

A: No. Once compressed, most materials undergo permanent deformation and lose recovery, which almost guarantees a leak. Always install a new gasket.

Q: What is the difference between a full-face and an inner-bolt-circle (IBC) gasket?

A: A full-face gasket covers the entire flange face including bolt holes and is used with flat-face flanges. An IBC gasket sits inside the bolt circle and matches a raised-face flange.

Q: When should I choose a spiral wound gasket over a solid soft cut gasket?

A: Choose spiral wound for high pressure (Class 300+) and high temperature, especially with thermal cycling. Soft cut gaskets suit lower pressure/temperature, irregular flanges, and strong chemical resistance.

Q: How important is flange surface preparation before installing a new gasket?

A: Critical. Surfaces must be clean, dry, and free of old gasket, rust, and burrs. Typical finish: 125–250 microinches Ra for soft cut gaskets; 32–125 microinches Ra for spiral wound and metal gaskets.

Need help specifying an industrial gasket for a specific media, pressure class, or certification requirement? Our engineering team responds within one business day.

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