Gasket Sheets For steam
When selecting gasket sheets for sealing applications involving steam, it’s crucial to choose materials that offer excellent resistance to high temperatures, pressure, and moisture. Here are some gasket sheet options commonly used for steam sealing applications:
Graphite Sheets:
- Graphite gasket sheets are widely used for steam sealing applications due to their excellent thermal conductivity, high-temperature resistance, and resilience. Graphite offers good sealing performance even at elevated temperatures and pressures, making it suitable for use in steam valves, boilers, heat exchangers, and other steam handling equipment.
PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene) Sheets:
- PTFE gasket sheets offer excellent chemical resistance and low permeability to steam, making them suitable for high-temperature steam sealing applications. PTFE is inert and non-reactive with steam, ensuring reliable sealing performance in steam piping systems, valves, and fittings.
Non-Asbestos Fiber Sheets:
- Non-asbestos fiber gasket sheets, particularly those reinforced with aramid fibers or synthetic elastomers, can provide effective steam sealing performance. These gasket sheets offer good resistance to high temperatures and pressures and are commonly used in steam valves, pumps, and flange connections.
Metal Sheets:
- Metal gasket sheets made from materials such as stainless steel, copper, or aluminum can provide reliable steam sealing in high-pressure and high-temperature applications. Metal gaskets offer excellent resilience, stability, and resistance to compression set, making them suitable for use in steam boilers, pressure vessels, and steam piping systems.
Rubber Sheets:
- Certain rubber gasket materials, such as EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) or fluoroelastomers (e.g., Viton®), can provide effective steam sealing performance in specific steam applications. EPDM offers good resistance to high temperatures and steam exposure, while fluoroelastomers offer enhanced chemical resistance and high-temperature performance.
When selecting gasket sheets for steam sealing applications, it’s essential to consider factors such as the temperature and pressure of the steam, surface finish of the mating flanges, and operating conditions. Proper material selection and gasket design are critical to ensure reliable and long-lasting seals in steam systems. Additionally, gaskets for steam applications may require careful installation and maintenance to prevent leaks and ensure safety.