How to Store and Maximise Gasket Life for Longevity

13 August 2020

Just like any other type of fasteners or sealing solutions, gaskets can become unusable after reaching their maximum lifespan. One reason behind this phenomenon is due to the material used. Gaskets can be made from ethylene propylene, butyl, nitrile, natural rubber, silicone, and many more. Some of these materials only last for around 3 to 5 years. Others, alternatively, can last up to 20 years.

The service life of gaskets tends to decrease more as they get exposed to various damaging elements. Moreover, improper storage of gaskets can also contribute to the lowered lifespan of gaskets. 

Whatever type of material that is used for your gaskets, it is still important for them to be stored and used appropriately so they can reach or even go beyond their maximum service life. Here are some ways that can help you maximise their service life.

Control Light Exposure

There are gasket materials that can endure the effects of light exposure. Other gaskets, on the other hand, can wear and get damaged very quickly once they are directly exposed to strong sunlight or artificial light. And so, for safety purposes, you may want to store and use gaskets in applications that do not receive powerful light exposure. One material that must not be exposed under light is rubber.

Prevent Oxygen Exposure

Aside from light exposure, the service life of various gaskets is also affected by the oxygen that surrounds them. Rubber gaskets can disintegrate and deteriorate swiftly whenever they are exposed to oxygen and ozone, which are both enhanced as they interact with nearby electric motors, high-voltage electrical equipment, and mercury vapour lamps. A storage location that prevents rubber gaskets from being exposed to excessive oxygen and ozone levels is hugely suitable.

Maintain Relative Humidity

Wrong storage of gasket materials can also lead to their deterioration. Storage locations that are excessively moist or dry can dry out some gaskets, which subsequently make them brittle and fragile once they are used. For proper storage, the relative humidity levels must fall below 75% so that your gaskets can reach their maximum lifespan.

Regulate Temperature

Temperature can also affect the overall quality and service life of gaskets. The overall physical properties of some gasket materials tend to change whenever they are stored in extremely high or low temperatures. Storage locations that have high temperatures can damage some gaskets, while other types of gaskets become unusable whenever they are stored in freezing temperatures. Keeping the storage temperatures around 25°C is optimal for the preservation of gasket life.

Avoid Storage Mistakes

The way gaskets are stored can also affect the service life of gaskets. Stacking gaskets on top of each other can compress or elongate their materials. The same effect may happen if heavy things or equipment are placed on top of them. For proper storage, your gaskets must be separated based on their size, type, material, and grade. Their storage units must also be suitable for the gasket materials to make sure that they do not deteriorate. Following these things can help your gasket obtain much longer life. To know more about preserving gasket life, just give us a call at Gasketech. 

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