Factors Affecting Gasket Performance Page 1 of 2

METAL/SPIRAL WOUND GASKETS

Engineering Data/FAQs

Factors Affecting Gasket Performance

A gasket is any deformable material which, when clamped
between essentially stationary faces, prevents the passage of
media across the gasketed connection.

Compressing the gasket material causes the material to flow into

the imperfections of the sealing areas and effect a seal. This bond
prevents the escape of the contained media. In order to maintain
this seal, sufficient load must be applied to the connection to
oppose the hydrostatic end force created by the internal pressure
of the system.

Gasket performance depends on a number of factors, including:

1. Gasket Metal and Filler Material: The materials must

withstand the effects of:

Temperature: Temperature can adversely affect

mechanical and chemical properties of the gasket, as
well as physical characteristics such as oxidation and
resilience.

Pressure: The media or internal piping pressure can
blow out the gasket across the flange face.

Media: The gasket materials must be resistant to
corrosive attack from the media.

 Joint Design: The force holding the two flanges together must
be sufficient to prevent flange separation caused by hydrostatic
end force, resulting from the pressure in the entire system.

 Proper Bolt Load: If the bolt load is insufficient to deform the

gasket, or is so excessive that it crushes the gasket, a leak will
occur.

Surface Finish: If the surface finish is not suitable for the gasket,
a seal will not be effected.

WARNING:
Properties/application
shown here are typical.
Your specific application
should not be undertaken
without independent
study and evaluation for
suitability. For specific

http://www.dracomech.com/metalgaskets/factors_metal.html 4/8/2010
Factors Affecting Gasket Performance Page 2 of 2

application
recommendations consult Garlock. Failure to select the proper
sealing products could result in property damage and/or serious
personal injury.

Performance data published here has been developed from field

testing, customer field reports and/or in-house testing.

While the utmost care has been used in compiling this

information, we assume no responsibility for errors.
Specifications subject to change without notice. This edition
cancels all previous issues. Subject to change without notice.

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http://www.dracomech.com/metalgaskets/factors_metal.html 4/8/2010