Types of Gaskets for Oil and Gas

13 October 2020

Gaskets are mechanical seals that can fill the space between two or more mating surfaces. These hardware devices are typically installed between two objects so that they can prevent any leakage from or into the objects while they are under compression. They can also effectively cover irregularities and increase the sealing ability of the materials.

Different industries utilise the benefits and capabilities of various types of gaskets. One industry that maximises these hardware devices is the petrochemical or oil and gas industry. This industry typically uses equipment and devices that process oil, gas, water, and many other elements. Any erroneous leaks by these elements can easily affect the operations of the industry. And so, it would only be necessary for the said industry to maximise gaskets for safer and more secure overall operations.

To help you out, here are some of the most common types of gaskets for oil and gas applications.

Non-Asbestos Gaskets

Non-asbestos gaskets are typically made from organic fibres, aramid fibres, nitrile rubber (NBR), and mineral fibres. They are created with full-face flanges that boast elastomeric properties. Most of these gaskets have high chemical resistance, great compressibility, and a reasonable amount of recovery property if they are not overstressed. These gaskets are typically applied in low-pressure and low-temperature applications, but they can also be used on applications that require chemical resistance.

Envelope Gaskets

Another type of gaskets that are being maximised for oil and gas applications is envelope gaskets. These gaskets can possess either double jacketed gaskets or an envelope of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) with an inlay. These gaskets are primarily used as a flange gasket for applications that require high-chemical and high-pressure resistance. They do not, however, have a reasonable amount of compression or recovery. They do not also hold up to radial shear during high-temperature fluctuations.

Ring Type Joint Gaskets

Ring type joint gaskets, alternatively, are machined precisely so that they can be applicable for high-pressure and high-temperature applications. They are normally made from soft stainless steel gasket materials. However, they should be replaced every use due to deformation in their flanges. These gaskets usually come in oval or octagonal shapes, which can be useful for API 6A applications. Some other types of ring joint gaskets must be created in strict accordance with API 17D and ASME B16.20.

Flat Metal Gaskets

Flat metal gaskets are typically made from a stainless steel core and do not have any filler material. Some other flat metal gaskets can likewise be fabricated from aluminium, copper, pure iron, titanium, and others. They can come in a wide variety of sizes and shapes. These gaskets are used in applications that have low criticality, low compressibility, and low recovery. They are not, however, recommended for applications that have both high temperature and pressure.

Spiral Wound Gaskets

Spiral wound gaskets with an inner ring are great for all pressure ratings of pipe flanges. These gaskets are also recommended for heat exchangers due to their sealing ability tolerances, making them great for other high-pressure and high-temperature applications. They also have more compressibility and recovery. The inner ring of these gaskets is usually made from stainless steel, while the outer ring is made from carbon steel.

If you want to know more gaskets for oil and gas applications, feel free to contact us at Gasketech. We manufacture and supply gaskets, washers, extrusions, and mouldings for all types of industries.

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