Gaskets are used in a number of industries, mainly automotive, aerospace, marine, Industrial, aviation and electronics. Their main purpose is to create a tight seal between two parts and prevents any leakage of fluid or gas. Gaskets are designed to prevent leakage in different temperature and pressure changes and must be made of material that is more pliable than the parts being joined.
The number one cause for gasket failure is extreme engine temperature. Temperature fluctuations over time can cause wear and tear on gaskets. Extreme temperatures can cause a loss of gasket thickness or a relaxation which means loss of gasket stress which can allow pressure to build up which cause the gasket to fail or rupture. Temperatures can also cause oxidation of gaskets made of graphite or certain fibers making the gaskets become brittle and less elastic. Oxidation is a reaction when materials interact with oxygen molecules.
Because gaskets need to withstand extreme temperatures, the material used to create gaskets is vital. Aluminum expands more rapidly than other metals when heated, making it less desirable than other materials. Steal gaskets can generally withstand extreme temperatures and are often used. There are many other substances gaskets can be made of the withstand temperature fluctuations too. Synthetic rubbers and silicones can also handle extreme temperatures.
Synthetic rubber is well known for its ability to withstand high temperatures of up to 400 degrees during continuous use. Polyurethane is recommended for a wide range of weather conditions from as low as -22 degrees to as high as 230 degrees. Ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber is excellent at coping with temperatures from -40 degrees up to 250 degrees and is highly resistant to steam. Silicone is one of the most versatile and works extremely well in temperatures ranging from -67 degrees up to 450 degrees and is also very resistant to oxidation.
While gaskets come in a wide variety of materials, there are also many types of gaskets. Jacketed gaskets are widely used to optimize temperature performance. Jacketed gaskets combine the durability of steel gaskets while taking advantage of the sealing quality softer materials like rubber and silicone offer. Jacketed gaskets come in different forms as well. Single jacketed is the most common but double jacket gaskets are available when corrugation options are needed and French styles gaskets can be used for irregular shapes.
Gasket King offers a wide variety of gaskets that are suitable for temperature fluctuations as well as different types and styles. You will find the gasket you need specific to the operating temperatures of your equipment. Temperature has an important influence on the tightness and durability of gasketed joints. Careful consideration when choosing the proper gasket can save you time and the cost of expensive repairs.
Gasket King carries thousands of high quality gaskets available for purchase at great prices. Our gaskets exceed all OEM specs and we guarantee 100% satisfaction. We’ve helped thousands of motorcycle enthusiasts with the products they need to ride. All gaskets are high quality made from American premium material.
