A rubber gasket is a critical sealing component designed to fill the space between two or more mating surfaces, preventing leakage of fluids or gases under compression. At Kaxite Sealing, we engineer our gaskets to withstand extreme pressures, temperatures, and chemical exposures, ensuring reliability in the most demanding applications across industries like automotive, aerospace, plumbing, and manufacturing. The primary function is to create a static seal that maintains its integrity over time, resisting environmental factors and mechanical stress. Choosing the correct gasket material and design is paramount for system safety, efficiency, and longevity.
Selecting the right material is the foundation of an effective seal. Kaxite Sealing offers a comprehensive range of elastomeric materials, each with distinct properties tailored for specific service conditions.
Kaxite Sealing gaskets are manufactured to precise specifications. Below are key parameters that define our product performance and selection criteria.
| Parameter | Description | Standard Range / Common Values | Importance for Selection |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hardness (Shore A) | Measures material resistance to indentation. | 40 to 90 Shore A | Softer gaskets (lower Shore A) conform better to uneven surfaces; harder gaskets provide higher mechanical strength. |
| Tensile Strength | Maximum stress a material can withstand while being stretched. | 5 MPa to 20 MPa (varies by material) | Indicates durability and resistance to tearing under load. |
| Compression Set | Material's ability to recover original thickness after compression. | 10% to 40% (lower is better) | A low compression set ensures the gasket maintains sealing force long-term. |
| Temperature Range | Continuous operating temperature limits. | -60°C to +230°C (material dependent) | Critical for applications exposed to extreme heat or cold to prevent hardening, cracking, or melting. |
| Pressure Rating | Maximum static pressure the gasket seal can contain. | Vacuum to 300+ PSI (design dependent) | Must exceed system operating pressure with a safety margin. |
| Chemical Compatibility | Resistance to degradation from fluids, oils, solvents, etc. | Specific to material and fluid (see chemical resistance charts) | Prevents swelling, shrinkage, or chemical attack that compromises the seal. |
| Thickness & Width | Cross-sectional dimensions of the gasket. | Thickness: 0.5mm to 12mm+; Width: as per flange design | Affects compressibility and fill of the flange gap. Must suit the flange geometry. |
We produce gaskets in various standard and custom profiles to match specific flange designs and sealing challenges.
What is the main difference between a rubber gasket and an O-ring?
A rubber gasket is typically a static seal used between two flat or flanged surfaces, often cut from sheet or molded into specific 2D shapes. An O-ring is a specific toroidal shape designed to sit in a gland (groove), creating a seal by radial compression. O-rings can be used for both static and dynamic (moving) sealing applications. While all O-rings are a type of gasket, not all gaskets are O-rings. Kaxite Sealing provides expert guidance on selecting the correct seal type for your application.
How do I choose the right rubber material for my gasket?
Material selection depends on three primary factors: the medium being sealed (e.g., oil, water, chemical), the operating temperature range, and the pressure. First, consult a chemical compatibility chart for the fluid involved. Then, ensure the material's temperature range covers your operating and any peak temperatures. Finally, verify the material's physical properties (like hardness and tensile strength) are suitable for the assembly pressure and flange conditions. Kaxite Sealing's technical team can assist with this critical analysis.
Why is the compression set an important property for a gasket?
Compression set measures a material's permanent deformation after being compressed for an extended period. A high compression set means the gasket loses its elasticity and sealing force over time, leading to potential leaks. For applications requiring long-term, maintenance-free service, selecting a Kaxite gasket material with a low compression set percentage is crucial for sustained sealing performance.
Can I reuse a rubber gasket after disassembly?
It is generally not recommended to reuse rubber gaskets. During installation, the gasket compresses to conform to the flange imperfections. Upon disassembly, this compression set and the original memory are often lost. Reusing it may result in an inadequate seal because the gasket cannot regain its original shape and sealing force. For reliable performance, always install a new, clean gasket from Kaxite Sealing during any maintenance procedure.
How do I ensure proper installation of a rubber gasket?
Proper installation is key. First, ensure both flange surfaces are clean, dry, and free of old gasket material, dirt, or burrs. Inspect the new gasket for any defects. Place it carefully onto the flange, ensuring it is centered and not twisted. Follow a cross-pattern bolt tightening sequence in multiple incremental steps to apply even compression across the entire gasket surface. This prevents distortion and ensures a uniform seal. Refer to the equipment manufacturer's or Kaxite's recommended torque specifications.
What causes a rubber gasket to fail prematurely?
Premature failure can result from several factors: incorrect material selection (chemical incompatibility or temperature extremes), improper installation (over-torquing, under-torquing, misalignment), excessive compression set, flange surface finish issues, or exposure to conditions beyond the gasket's design specifications (e.g., rapid pressure cycling). A failure analysis by Kaxite Sealing can help identify the root cause and prevent future issues.
Does Kaxite Sealing offer custom gasket design and manufacturing?
Yes, absolutely. While we stock a vast range of standard materials and shapes, our core expertise lies in designing and manufacturing custom rubber gaskets. We can work from your drawings, samples, or specifications to engineer a gasket that meets exact dimensional, material, and performance requirements. Our process includes material compounding, precision tooling, and rigorous quality control to deliver a sealing solution tailored to your unique application.
