Most Common Gasket Installation Mistakes that You Should Avoid

24 June 2021

Many manufacturers utilise gaskets in sealing spaces and preventing leakage from or into the said spaces during operations. Through these mechanical seals, equipment pieces and machines exposed to various elements can maintain their operations without expecting any leaking issues. They are also prevented from getting damaged due to exposure to gas, liquid, and other volatile substances.

But for gaskets to be effective, they must be installed correctly. Gaskets that are installed properly certainly allow them to fulfil their functions. Alternatively, installing them wrongly will only generate consequences that can affect the overall operations of equipment pieces and machines. 

Here are some of the most common gasket installation mistakes that you should avoid.

Choosing the Wrong Material

Gaskets can be made from different materials. Some of these materials are rubber, cork, asbestos, metal, and fibreglass. While these materials can all carry out primary gasket functions, they still have unique properties that can only work in certain conditions and applications. Choosing a gasket that cannot tolerate specific elements would only damage it right away. It might even damage the equipment.

Contaminating the Surface

Another installation mistake that industries might commit is the contamination of the gasket surface. People who are assigned to install the gaskets must ensure that their hands are clean so that they can handle the said mechanical seals without transferring any dirt particles. They must also make sure that any grease and tiny particles on the gaskets’ surface will be removed before their installation. Failure to ensure their cleanliness will only result in irregular sealing and contamination of surfaces.

Disregarding Visible Flaws

Not all gaskets are created equal. While most gaskets are produced perfectly, others might have some noticeable defects and flaws. These defects and flaws should be identified right away so that the gaskets will not be used anymore. Some notable defects and flaws include cracks, ridges, and signs of corrosion. Disregarding these flaws would only cause the gasket operations to fail.

Using Damaged or Old Bolts

Bolts that have contaminated or damaged threads should not be used again. Even bolts that have been used for a long time should be replaced for the gaskets to be effective. The continuous use of damaged bolts would only generate false torque readings and can affect their clamping force. Old bolts likewise tend to over-stretch, which can compromise their clamping force. When installing gaskets on damaged or old bolts, the overall sealing can be compromised.

Skipping Vital Bolt Inspections

The overall length of the bolt must be measured first before the installation of gaskets. Additionally, the bolt holes must be checked to see if they correspond to the correct length of the bolt. Another element that must be checked is the condition of the bolt holes. Skipping these vital inspections will only make the gasket installation fail significantly.

To know more about gasket installation, feel free to contact us at Gasketech. We are a manufacturer and supplier of gaskets and sealing washers, extrusions, and mouldings for all industries.

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