10 Dec How to Choose The Right Gasket Material
We couldn’t live without gaskets: They seal connections, prevent leaks, and accommodate variations in pressure and temperature. Gasket materials have unique properties that allow for a wide range of applications.
Each material serves a different purpose; I.B. Moore Manufacturing specializes in gasket fabrication and helps clients choose ones that align with their needs. Selecting the correct gasket material is a critical step for extending the lifespan and reliability of your equipment.
Types of Gasket Material for Different Applications
The material used in a gasket determines its effectiveness in specific environments. Below are commonly used materials and their applications:
Rubber Gaskets
Rubber gaskets are versatile and widely used in a variety of settings. We recommend them for applications requiring elasticity, chemical resistance, or waterproofing. They withstand moderate temperature variations and pressures, making them a reliable choice for general industrial use. Their adaptability to different shapes and surfaces guarantees a tight seal in challenging configurations.
Silicone
Silicone gaskets are prized for their high-temperature tolerance and durability. They perform exceptionally well in extreme heat or cold, so they’re widely used in the automotive, aerospace, and food processing industries. They are also resistant to fungal and bacterial growth, which benefits medical and pharmaceutical applications.
Viton®
Viton® is a fluoropolymer material (a special plastic made with super-strong fluorine) known for remarkable chemical resistance and the ability to handle high temperatures. The oil and gas, chemical processing, and automotive industries commonly use Viton® gaskets. Its toughness and longevity make it an excellent choice for those harsh environments.
Sheet Rubber
Sheet rubber is another standard gasket fabrication option. It offers excellent flexibility, and we tailor it to various thicknesses to suit different applications. Industries prioritizing abrasion resistance and flexibility rely on this material for their sealing needs.
Neoprene
Neoprene gaskets offer excellent resistance to oils, chemicals, and weathering. They are durable and flexible and commonly used in applications with critical environmental exposure and sealing reliability. Neoprene gasket fans include the industrial, automotive, and marine industries.
Flange Gaskets
We also sell ANSI-style Full-Face and Ring Flange gaskets to seal, prevent leaks, and absorb vibration around pipes and piping fittings. These reliable gasket materials are gas and liquid-tight. Ask us about our extensive flange gasket tooling and stocked gasket materials with short lead times.
Specialized Options
Beyond these standard materials, we fabricate custom gaskets from PTFE, composition cork, and even vegetable fiber. These and other specialized materials address unique challenges, like high-pressure environments or aggressive chemical exposure.
Choosing Materials for Gasket Fabrication
When selecting a gasket fabrication material, the I.B. Moore Manufacturing team considers the following:
- Temperature Range: The gasket material must withstand the operating temperature without degrading or losing its sealing capabilities. Silicone and Viton® are excellent choices for high-temperature settings.
- Pressure Tolerance: High-pressure applications may require a more rigid material or a metal-reinforced design to maintain an effective seal.
- Chemical Compatibility: Certain materials provide superior chemical resistance, making them suitable for environments with harsh substances exposure.
- Flexibility and Compression: Materials like rubber excel in applications that demand elasticity and adaptability to irregular surfaces.
- Industry Standards: Some industries require compliance with specific standards, such as FDA-approved materials for food and beverage applications.
I.B. Moore specializes in gasket fabrication that meets your project’s exact requirements. By working with experienced fabricators, you can achieve precision-cut gaskets that align with your technical specifications.
Custom Solutions from I.B. Moore
I.B. Moore Manufacturing offers expertise in crafting gaskets from various materials, including those listed above. Custom gasket fabrication allows you to meet specific needs that in-stock options cannot address, but we offer both.
Our fabrication capabilities extend to producing various gasket shapes, sizes, and thicknesses. The I.B. Moore Manufacturing team members are trained in precision fabrication to ensure accuracy and consistency—those qualities are vital for maintaining a proper seal and reducing the risk of leaks or failure. I.B. Moore manufactures gaskets that meet and exceed client expectations through industry-standard and advanced techniques.
Reliability and expertise are critical when selecting the best gasket material for a project, and the I.B. Moore team has extensive experience working with many gasket materials and applications. We can explain the options and help you narrow things down to the ideal selection.
Let’s Talk About Gasket Materials
I.B. Moore Manufacturing will help you achieve optimal sealing solutions with in-stock or custom gaskets tailored to your needs. Are you ready to talk? Contact us in Lexington, KY, for a consultation and nationwide service.