Gaskets & O-Rings

Gaskets and O-rings are used to join two parts of a machine, engine or another often mechanical assembly by filling the space between both parts, creating a filled and sealed space in between. This seal prevents particle, vapour and fluid ingress or leakage to protect and maintain the joint or pressure while keeping debris out, ensuring proper function and safety.

Gaskets and O-rings come in a wide range of sizes, materials, and shapes to suit various applications. O-rings are typically circular in shape and are used in dynamic and static applications, while gaskets can be custom-made to fit specific shapes and sizes. They are used in various fields and industries, including automotive, aerospace, and general engineering, where reliable gasket seals and o-ring seals are crucial for preventing leaks and ensuring optimal performance.

How Do Gaskets and O-rings Work?

A gasket or O-ring is seated between two parts, often in a groove or channel in one or both of the components to be joined. When the two parts are brought together, the gasket or O-ring is compressed, creating a seal that prevents the passage of fluids, gases, or particulate matter. The compression of the sealing ring deforms it slightly, forcing it to fill any irregularities in the mating surfaces and creating a tight gasket seal or o-ring seal.

They can be used in dynamic joints where there is movement, such as in rotating shafts or pistons, as well as in static or fixed applications, like pipe flanges or valve covers. The choice between a gasket and an O-ring often depends on the specific application, the shape of the mating surfaces, and the desired level of sealing performance.

In some cases, gaskets and o-rings may be used together to provide enhanced sealing capabilities.

Gasket Seal Types

Gaskets are designed to provide a reliable seal between two surfaces, preventing leaks and ensuring the integrity of a joint. They come in various types and materials to suit different applications and operating conditions. Here are some common gasket seal types:

Flat Gaskets

Flat gaskets are the simplest type, consisting of a flat sheet of material, such as rubber, cork, paper, or fiber. They are typically used in low-pressure applications where the mating surfaces are relatively smooth and flat. Flat gaskets are commonly found in automotive engines, plumbing fixtures, and electrical enclosures.

Spiral Wound Gaskets

Spiral wound gaskets consist of a V-shaped metal strip spirally wound with a filler material, such as graphite or PTFE. This construction provides excellent resilience, compressibility, and resistance to high temperatures and pressures. Spiral wound gaskets are often used in demanding industrial applications, such as pipelines, valves, and pressure vessels.

Ring Type Joint (RTJ) Gaskets

RTJ gaskets are metal rings with a specific cross-sectional profile designed to seal by being compressed between two flanges. They are commonly used in high-pressure and high-temperature applications, such as oil and gas pipelines and refinery equipment.

Kammprofile Gaskets

Kammprofile gaskets consist of a metal core with a serrated profile and a soft, conformable facing material. This design provides excellent sealing performance, even on imperfect flange surfaces. This type of gaskets seal is often used in high-pressure and high-temperature applications, such as chemical processing and power generation.

Non-Asbestos Sheet Gaskets

Non-asbestos sheet gaskets are made from compressed fiber materials that do not contain asbestos. They offer good sealing performance in a variety of applications and are often used as a replacement for older asbestos-containing gaskets.

O-Ring / Ring Sealing Types

O-rings are simple yet effective sealing devices that are widely used in various applications. They are typically circular in shape and are made from elastomeric materials that can be compressed to create a seal. Here are some common o-ring / ring sealing types:

Standard O-Rings

Standard O-rings are the most common type, offering a reliable seal in both static and dynamic applications. They are available in a wide range of sizes and materials to suit different operating conditions and fluid compatibility requirements.

Quad-Rings (X-Rings)

Quad-rings, also known as X-rings, have a four-lobed cross-section that provides improved sealing performance compared to standard O-rings, particularly in dynamic applications. They offer increased stability, reduced friction, and enhanced resistance to spiral twisting.

O-Ring Cord

O-ring cord is a continuous length of o-ring material that can be cut to the desired length and joined to form a custom-sized o-ring. This is useful for applications where standard o-ring sizes are not available or for creating large-diameter o-rings.

Back-up Rings

Back-up rings are used in conjunction with o-rings in high-pressure applications to prevent extrusion of the o-ring into the clearance gap. They are typically made from a harder material than the o-ring and are placed between the sealing ring and the extrusion gap.

Material Types for Gaskets and O-Ring Seals

Gaskets and O-rings are manufactured from a wide variety of materials to suit diverse applications and operating conditions. The choice of material significantly impacts the performance, longevity, and chemical compatibility of the gasket seal or o-ring seal.

While gaskets and o-rings are commonly made from elastomers like nitrile rubber and silicone, they are also available in various other materials, including plastics, metals, and composites.

Nitrile Rubber (NBR)

Nitrile rubber is a popular choice for gaskets and o-rings due to its excellent resistance to oil, fuel, and other petroleum-based fluids. It also offers good abrasion resistance and can withstand a wide range of temperatures.

Silicone

Silicone o-rings and gaskets are known for their excellent temperature resistance, flexibility, and biocompatibility. They can withstand extreme temperatures, making them suitable for applications in electronics, food processing, and medical devices. Silicone also exhibits good resistance to UV radiation and ozone.

Fluorocarbon (FKM)

Fluorocarbon, also known as Viton, is a high-performance elastomer that offers exceptional resistance to heat, chemicals, and oils. FKM o-rings and gaskets are commonly used in demanding applications, such as chemical processing, aerospace, and oil and gas industries.

Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM)

EPDM is a durable elastomer that offers excellent resistance to weathering, ozone, and UV radiation. It is also resistant to water and steam, making it suitable for outdoor applications and those involving water or steam exposure. EPDM gaskets are often used in automotive weatherstripping and roofing applications.

PTFE (Teflon)

PTFE, commonly known as Teflon, is a fluoropolymer that offers exceptional chemical resistance, low friction, and a wide temperature range. PTFE gaskets and seals are often used in chemical processing, pharmaceutical, and food processing industries where high purity and chemical inertness are required.

Graphite

Graphite gaskets are known for their excellent heat resistance and chemical compatibility. They are often used in high-temperature applications, such as furnaces, boilers, and exhaust systems.

Cork

Cork gaskets offer good compressibility, resilience, and resistance to oils and solvents. They are often used in applications where a natural and environmentally friendly material is desired, such as in automotive and electrical applications.

Industrial Applications of Gasket Seals & Sealing Rings

Gaskets and O-rings are indispensable components in a wide range of industries, providing reliable sealing solutions for various applications. Their ability to prevent leaks, maintain pressure, and protect equipment makes them essential in diverse industrial settings. Here are some key examples:

Automotive

Gaskets and o-rings are extensively used in the automotive industry to seal various components in engines, transmissions, fuel systems, and other critical systems. Gasket seals prevent oil leaks, coolant leaks, and exhaust leaks, ensuring the proper functioning and longevity of vehicles. O-rings are commonly used in fuel injectors, oil filters, and hydraulic systems.

Aerospace

Gaskets and seals play a crucial role in aerospace applications, where extreme temperatures, pressures, and harsh environments demand high-performance sealing solutions. They are used in aircraft engines, fuel systems, hydraulic systems, and other critical components to prevent leaks, maintain pressure, and ensure safety and reliability.

Oil and Gas

The oil and gas industry relies heavily on gaskets and o-rings for sealing pipelines, valves, pumps, and other equipment used in exploration, production, and transportation of oil and gas. Ring sealing is crucial in this industry to prevent leaks, protect the environment, and maintain operational efficiency.

Chemical Processing

Gaskets and seals are essential in chemical processing plants to prevent leaks of hazardous or corrosive chemicals. They are used in pipelines, valves, pumps, reactors, and other equipment to ensure safe and efficient operation.

Pharmaceutical

The pharmaceutical industry requires high-purity gaskets and seals to prevent contamination of pharmaceutical products. Gaskets and o-rings made from materials like PTFE or silicone are often used in pharmaceutical manufacturing equipment and packaging to maintain sterility and product integrity.

Food and Beverage

Gaskets and seals are used in food and beverage processing equipment to prevent leaks and contamination. Food-grade gaskets and o-rings are essential for maintaining hygiene standards and ensuring food safety.

Construction and Infrastructure

Gaskets and seals are used in various construction and infrastructure applications, such as sealing pipe joints, waterproofing structures, and preventing leaks in water management systems. Durable and reliable gaskets are essential for long-lasting performance in these applications.

How to Choose the Right Gaskets & O-Rings

Selecting the appropriate gaskets and o-rings for your application is crucial for ensuring a reliable seal and preventing leaks. Here are some key factors to consider:

• Application and Operating Conditions

Determine the specific application and operating conditions, including temperature, pressure, and the type of fluids or gases being sealed. This will help you choose gaskets and o-rings with the appropriate material and performance characteristics.

• Material Compatibility

Ensure the gasket and o-ring materials are compatible with the fluids or gases being sealed. Some materials may degrade or swell when exposed to certain chemicals, compromising the seal.

• Size and Dimensions

Choose gaskets and o-rings with the correct size and dimensions to fit the application. Accurate measurements are crucial for ensuring a proper seal.

• Shape and Design

Consider the shape and design of the gasket or o-ring based on the application requirements. Different shapes and profiles are available to suit various sealing configurations.

• Temperature and Pressure Ratings

Select gaskets and o-rings with appropriate temperature and pressure ratings for the operating conditions. Exceeding these ratings can lead to seal failure and leaks.

Trusted Gasket & O Ring Manufacturer, Supplier & Distributor in Australia

RS Australia offers reliable gaskets and o-rings for sale. We stock a wide variety of gaskets and o-rings in numerous sizes and materials, including nitrile, silicone, fluorocarbon, and EPDM, ensuring you can find the perfect solution for your sealing needs.

Buy gaskets and o-rings online from leading brands like Hutchinson Le Joint Français, Klinger, TE Connectivity, and more. We offer speedy delivery throughout Australia. For more information on our delivery services and fees, please visit our Delivery Page.