Gasket kits are used throughout many industries. Their purpose is to seal the space between two components and prevent leaks while in operation. Gaskets come in numerous shapes and sizes, but are largely produced in a circle form and applied to seal pipes and connections that would normally leak without them. Being composed of various materials, the gasket can be used in various machines and devices. Within your machine’s lifetime, you will have to replace the gasket to make sure the machine continues functioning properly. Continue reading to learn about the factors to consider when finding a new gasket for your machine.
Industries That Use Gaskets
Industries using machines that require a form of liquid or gases to be sealed inside the machine would invariably have a gasket fitted to prevent leakage. So, what are these industries?
- Aerospace – Gaskets are used in the airline industry for fuel caps, the fuel system, gascolater and valve covers. Using rubber, cork and silicone for various parts of the airplane.
- Agriculture – Gaskets are used in the machinery of the farming industry such as crop sprayers and harvesters.
- Automotive – This industry uses non-asbestos gaskets for engines and chassis.
- Defence – Gaskets can be found in the engines of tanks and motor vehicles used throughout the defence industry.
- Domestic Appliances – You will find gaskets used in washing machines and dish washers.
- Railway – Many gaskets can be found in the steam trains at steam museums.
- Maritime – Gaskets are used throughout the maritime industry and can be found in ships and submarines.
- Water Company – The pipeline industry is one of the biggest users of gaskets. With pipework, valves and pumps to seal water and chemicals throughout the world.
Using Your Gasket Kit
If you’re considering using a kit, then you must be familiar with what it does and how it functions. Buying a kit and then fitting it incorrectly will cost you time and money. Having the experience of how to tighten your gasket kit is invaluable when it comes to larger kits for vehicles.
When you remove your old gasket, you will notice it is worn thin and causing fluid to leak out. By replacing the part, you will stop this problem if you correctly adhere to the procedure for tightening the kit, which is by starting at the outside (in the case of a larger gasket), then working in sequence from left to right simultaneously from outside to the inside.
Some gaskets have two torque levels that need to be adhered to, so this is when you tighten it to the first torque setting then follow the same procedure to tighten to the second torque setting. Remember not to overtighten.
Factors to Consider When Finding a Gasket Replacement
In order to find the right gasket for your needs, take a look at the following factors to consider. If you still have questions, don’t hesitate to contact a compressor parts manufacturer.
Structures – There are four principal kinds of gasket structures, these are:
- Corrugated-metal – They can be made into many shapes and sizes. Although, the thickness is usually kept much the same. This structure comes in a variety of metals including;
- Ring-joint – ring-joint gaskets are more frequently applied in high-pressure piping systems and ships. With the most familiar shapes comprising the oval and octagonal ones. The oval shaped can merely be used once, whereas the octagonal shaped can be used several times.
- Spiral-wound – a spiral-wound gasket is more resilient than its counterparts and is used in machines where the temperatures and stresses will fluctuate. Spiral-wound gaskets are made by winding metal strips and filler alternately around an inner steel ring.
- Graphite Foil – this gasket is used when the need for extreme temperatures are required. The graphite foil gasket can resist chemicals and extreme variations in higher and lower temperatures.
Material – Gaskets are made out of the following materials:
Effectiveness – There are several aspects that can weaken the efficiency of your gasket. By taking them into consideration when exploring your new purchase, you will prevent problems within your machinery by having this knowledge at hand.
Temperature – This is one of the most fundamental aspects that will influence the performance of your gasket. You must make sure the part you purchase has the requirements to withstand the high or low temperatures needed for your machine. If the gasket cannot withstand the high or low temperatures needed, it will expand with the heat and crack or break.
Thickness – Knowing whether your machine requires a thinner or thicker gasket to provide an appropriate seal is very significant. If you get the thickness wrong, it will develop leaks due to the stress it is under.
Width – The width of the part will determine the pressure that can be utilized by the gasket. It is suggested a smaller width can hold more pressure.
Finish – There are many surfaces that can be assigned to a gasket but if the surface is rather smooth, it won’t have enough grip. If the surface is extremely coarse, it will demand the larger torque when tightening which may lead to damage.
Liquid Use Intended – The liquid that is intending to flow through the part is one that will need considerable thought. You must purchase a part that can withstand chemicals or high and low temperatures if this is required of your gasket.
Stress Resilience – Over the lifetime of the gasket, it will be subject to stresses from the fluctuations in temperature and chemical differences. The part you plan to purchase must have the requirements you need to prevent damage from stress.
After you’ve found a new gasket, you are ready to replace your current one to keep your machine going strong.
Replacing Your Kit
If you see symptoms of wear and tear or deterioration, it’s time to conduct a replacement. Find a reputable compressor parts manufacturer who understands the fundamentals required for your machine or vehicle. Decide on the material you would like used for your gasket along with the measurements and dimensions and instruct your manufacturer. If you don’t feel confident enough to replace individual components for your machine, you can always purchase a complete gasket kit and have the entire kit changed.