Things to Consider When Upgrading or Changing Pre-Specified Gaskets
14 September 2020Gaskets play an important role in machines and other types of assemblies. They help seal the space between two or mating surfaces, preventing any instance of leakage from or into the closed gap. Without these gaskets, it would be difficult for the industries to perform critical activities continuously and safely.
While almost all assemblies are installed with pre-specified gaskets, the need to change them can be inevitable in the long run. Pre-specified gaskets may seem to still work but considering alternative gaskets could be much more recommended to the changing needs of a facility or processing plant. These gaskets may not also longer work or are failing with your current assembly or application. The need to save resources may have also come into play, opting for the industry to go for more sustainable gaskets.
So, if you intend to upgrade or change your pre-specified gaskets due to some of the previously mentioned reasons, then here are some important things that you need to consider and think about.
Gasket Specifications
Before purchasing your new set of alternative gaskets, it is much recommended for you to determine the specifications of your existing pre-specified gaskets. These specifications can help you look for an alternative set of gaskets that are close to your actual needs, despite some minor but crucial changes to some of their elements. Knowing the specifications of your pre-specified gaskets also helps you compare gasket specifications from different manufacturers and pick out the ones that can fit your needs. One best way to cross-reference gaskets is through their line callout numbers.
Installation Parameters
Another thing that you must consider before upgrading or changing your pre-specified gaskets is your installation parameters. There might be times where the capabilities of your pre-specified gaskets have been restricted by the flange stress design. The different manufacturing procedures of the materials used in an assembly may likewise contribute to the limiting capabilities of the pre-specified gaskets. These installation factors and parameters may have contributed to the restrictions of the gaskets to perform their tasks. Given this fact, additional training may be required to guarantee the safe installation of new gaskets.
Application Changes
Knowing all application changes that have occurred within the system must also be considered in changing your pre-specified gaskets. There might be some new equipment that has been installed on the main processing line. Some insulating jackets may have also cooled or increased the temperature of the system. With these elements, your system pressure or temperature may change. And if these minor changes are not reported on the master process flow chart, most people will most likely overlook them. When installing alternative gaskets, these application changes must be considered to avoid problems.
Upgrade Assessment
One activity that must be done before upgrading your gaskets is to assess system elements that may change when doing the upgrade. You must know if upgrading your gaskets can truly improve the service life of your system and equipment. You must also determine the changes that these gaskets may bring to your system temperature or pressure. Changes in the process fluid or to the operating conditions must also be assessed when changing your gaskets. Narrowing down your material options, as well as reviewing the published data of your gaskets, must be done once all these elements are assessed fully. Considering these things when upgrading or changing your pre-specified gaskets can help you choose the right alternative gasket for your system. These things can also help you improve the overall functionality of your assembly as well as save significant resources.
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