Factors to Consider When Choosing a Flange Gasket
Flange gaskets are used on a flanged or flared surface. They’re pieces of molded rubber designed to seal the space between two pipe sections to ensure water, or other liquids won’t leak out.
There are factors you must consider when choosing a flange gasket to ensure you select the right one. Here are some of them:
The Types of Flange Gaskets
Many flange gaskets are available, so you should know which suits your needs. Full-face gaskets, for example, are used to cover the entire face of the flange, while ring-type gaskets are intended to fit inside the flange’s bolt circle. Other types of gaskets include spiral-wound, jacketed, corrugated metal, and rubber.
The Type of Fluid Conveyed By the Pipeline
Before purchasing a gasket, you should first determine the type of fluid that flows through your pipeline. Is it water, oil, or acids? Flange gaskets are made of different materials, and determining what kind of liquid they’ll be used for can help you select the right one.
For instance, if the fluid flowing through your pipes is toxic or harmful to humans and the environment, you should choose robust and tight flange gaskets. Instead of non-asbestos gaskets, opt for a spiral wound gasket with an outer ring.
The Material Used to Fabricate the Gasket
As stated, flange gaskets are manufactured using different materials. Those made with butyl, for example, are weather or abrasion resistant and are recommended if gases, inorganic acids, and alkalis flow through your pipe. Gaskets made of Viton or synthetic rubber polymer are best for aromatic fuels, minerals, hydraulic fluids, and animal or vegetable oils.
In addition, gaskets made of vinyl are excellent choices if water or oxidizing agents flow through your pipelines. Flange gaskets manufactured with neoprene may be your best choice for oil or gasoline.
The Working Temperature and Pressure of the Piping System
Aside from determining the type of fluid that flows through your pipelines, getting familiar with your piping system’s working temperature and pressure can help you select the right gasket. For instance, flanged gaskets made of non-asbestos or ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) can only withstand a maximum temperature of 800°F and a pressure of not more than 1,200 psi.
Additionally, pure flexible graphite flanged gaskets can tolerate 950°F and 2,100 psi, while those manufactured with Hypalon can endure up to 400°F and 900 psi. Carbon or graphite gaskets can take on 900°F and 2,000 psi, while nitrile gaskets, 800°F and 1,500 psi.
The Diameter and Thickness of the Gasket
Another essential factor you should consider when choosing a gasket is its thickness and diameter. The larger the diameter, the greater the capacity of the gasket to endure pressure.
Experts recommend choosing a gasket four times thicker than the faces’ maximum roughness to ensure optimum performance. And if vibrations occur, you should choose one wider than initially needed.
The Fugitive Emission Laws and Regulations of the Country
When selecting a gasket, you should first research your state or country’s fugitive emission laws and regulations. By doing so, you’ll be able to ensure that the type of gasket you choose is legally allowed to be used in your area.
The Cost of the Gasket
When choosing a gasket, you must select one you can afford. But it doesn’t mean you should immediately opt for a gasket with a relatively low price. You should also check its quality.
Purchasing a cheap gasket of poor quality to save money might only cause you more trouble in the future. You might end up paying for expensive repairs. And if the fluids flowing through your pipelines are toxic to humans, your family’s health might be at risk.
Purchase Flange Gaskets at Your Trusted Shop Now!
Choosing suitable flange gaskets can be difficult, especially if it’s your first time doing so. Now that you know what to consider when selecting a gasket, you can buy it at your most trusted shop.
If you don’t know a shop offering flange gaskets in your area, you can always purchase them online. Just make sure to buy only from legitimate online stores.
And if you have questions or clarifications about flange gaskets, don’t hesitate to ask the shop staff. They’ll surely be happy to answer all your queries and assist in any way they can.
