4 Primary Properties of Cork Gaskets

10 May 2022

Gaskets are mechanical devices that can keep parts shut off from damaging elements. Many materials can be maximised in producing gaskets. But one of the most popular materials for gaskets that many industries and even households use is rubber. 

Industries and households use gaskets out of rubber since the material can be effective against liquids and gases. Rubber gaskets are likewise popular since they can deform based on the surfaces of the parts. These gaskets, however, still have some weaknesses that they must take care of. Rubber gaskets can be weak against extreme temperatures and light. They also have a shorter service life compared to other gasket materials.

Rubber gaskets may truly be effective in sealing your parts and components. But if you are looking for a reliable alternative for these gaskets, you may want to opt for cork gaskets. Here are some of the most notable properties of cork gaskets that you should know.

1. Resistance to Elements

One of the most notable properties of cork gaskets is their resistance to elements. Just like rubber, cork gaskets can also be effective in most sealing applications as they can withstand the effects of water, ozone, oils, and other gases and liquids. Despite utilising them for a long time, cork gaskets will not age poorly due to their moisture resistance. What makes cork gaskets resistant to these things is that they utilise cell walls out of a reliable waxy substance. 

2. Dependable Elasticity

Another great property of cork gaskets is they have dependable elasticity. Some gaskets may conform to the shape of the parts and components. They may, however, swell on one side whenever they are compressed for a long time. Cork gaskets, alternatively, have a closed-cell structure that grants them quality flexural strength and resilience. Some layers of these gaskets may even be compressed to half of their thickness and still have the capability to regain their original appearance after removing the load.

3. Minimal Conductivity

Cork is often made from suberin, lignin, polysaccharides, ceroids, and tannins. All these elements provide cork gaskets with low conductivity to noise, making them effective in applications that can be sensitive to sound. They likewise have low conductivity to vibration, making them great for anti-vibration applications. These elements even help cork gaskets to become fire-retardant, making them highly effective in thermal insulation, aerospace, and automotive applications. 

4. Ensured Sustainability

One more property of cork gaskets that makes them beneficial for industries and households is they are sustainable. Cork is normally obtained from the harvested bark of the cork oak tree. Since it comes from a natural resource, this material is expected to be free from toxic substances. It is even non-allergenic, making the material perfect for those that have delicate body systems. And once materials out of cork reached the end of their service life, they can easily be collected and recycled.

If you need to gain access to cork gaskets, feel free to call us at Gasketech.

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