Understanding the Role of Fiber Gaskets

The manufacturing process of numerous industries relies on the ability of the gaskets in sealing the space between two or more mating surfaces and preventing any kind of leakage from or into the paired objects. Some of the industries that utilise different types of gaskets include power generation, chemical processing, mining, aerospace, oil & gas, food & beverage, military, and pharmaceutical.

Gaskets used to be made from asbestos as the material can resist steam, oil, water, pressure, and extreme temperatures. However, the health hazards and dangers of the said material prompted gasket manufacturers to look for an alternative and safer material. One of the materials used as a substitute for asbestos is fibre since it can directly match the abilities of the asbestos gaskets.

Fibre Gaskets Composition

Fibre gaskets, as the name implies, are made from fibre strands that are stretched and infused with a resin material. Once the strands and the resin material dry out, they form numerous sheets that can be easily moulded and shaped into gaskets.

To date, there are a wide variety of gaskets that a lot of industries use and maximise. Some fibre gaskets are made from cellulose, which can be further impregnated with rubber, insulating fibre, synthetic fibre, or vulcanized fibre. Others, however, can be made from either vegetable fibre or aramid. Most industries use gaskets out of vegetable fibres since they can be used in low pressure and low-temperature applications. 

All the materials used in producing fibre gaskets have distinct strength, compressibility, and temperature ratings. These sets of properties can be enhanced by adding like cork or rubber bind into the gasket. Vulcanising the cellulose fibre material, alternatively, can make the gasket sturdy and lightweight.

The Role of Fibre Gaskets

Since fibre gaskets are made from different materials, their specific applications also vary. Fibre gaskets that are made from vegetable fibre and cellulose fibre with rubber can easily resist the damaging effects of oil, gasoline, and steam. Aramid fibre in NBR binder, on the other hand, is best used for high-temperature applications in a wide range of industries.

Just like any gaskets, fibre gaskets also prevent chemicals, oils, water, alcohol, grease, air, gasoline, and other elements from penetrating or leaving the surface of the combining objects. Their high mechanical strength and high-quality flexibility also allow them to perfectly fit components that are used in industrial, chemical, petroleum, petrochemical, and automotive industries without getting damaged. Any irregularities between mating surfaces are also fixed by the application of fibre gaskets. The materials used for fibre gaskets and their associated properties make them recommended for different sets of applications. For your fibre gasket needs, feel free to contact us at Gasketech.

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