top of page

Flat Gaskets – Invisible Heroes of Sealing Technology

H. Schubbe

Flat gaskets are ubiquitous, but mostly invisible. They ensure that liquids and gases are securely sealed and no leaks occur in countless applications. Whether in industry, in automotive engineering or in the home - flat gaskets make an important contribution to the functionality and safety of machines, systems and devices.


In this comprehensive guide, we delve deep into the world of flat gaskets. Find out everything about how they work, their properties, the different materials and the wide range of possible uses. Discover the right flat gasket for your individual requirements and let the invisible heroes of sealing technology convince you!

Flat gasket in various dimensions and materials
Flachdichtungen in verschiedenen Materialien

What are flat gaskets? – Simple form, big effect


Flat gaskets are, as the name suggests, seals with a flat, mostly plate-shaped geometry. They are used between two components to ensure a tight seal and prevent the leakage of liquids or gases.


Flat gaskets come in a variety of shapes, sizes and materials. Choosing the right flat gasket depends on various factors, such as:


  • Type of medium: liquids, gases, aggressive media

  • Temperature: Cold, warm, hot

  • Pressure: Low pressure, High pressure

  • Environmental conditions: weather, chemicals, vibrations

  • Material of components: metal, plastic, ceramic


Material diversity – the right choice for your application


Flat gaskets are made from different materials to meet different requirements.


Typical materials for flat gaskets:


  • Elastomers: e.g. NBR, EPDM, silicone, FKM (Viton®)

  • Fibrous materials: e.g. Klingerite, Graphite

  • Metals: e.g. aluminum, copper, stainless steel

  • Plastics: e.g. PTFE, PVC, PE


Each material has its specific properties:


  • NBR: good price-performance ratio, resistant to oils and greases

  • EPDM: weather-resistant, ozone-resistant, resistant to hot water and steam

  • Silicone: temperature-resistant, food-safe

  • FKM (Viton®): extremely chemical resistant, heat resistant

  • Klingerit: fiber-based, heat-resistant, pressure-resistant

  • Graphite: temperature-resistant, chemical-resistant

  • PTFE: chemically inert, non-stick coating


Thermal properties – heat, cold and temperature changes


The thermal properties of flat gaskets are crucial for use in different temperature ranges.


  • Temperature resistance: Each flat gasket has a specific temperature range in which it can be used. Silicone gaskets, for example, can be used up to +200°C, while PTFE gaskets can even withstand temperatures up to +260°C.

  • Thermal expansion: The thermal expansion of the sealing material must be compatible with the thermal expansion of the components to avoid leaks.


Mechanical properties – compressive strength, flexibility and more


The mechanical properties of flat gaskets determine their resilience and service life.


  • Pressure resistance: Flat seals must be able to withstand the pressure of the medium. The pressure resistance is given in bar and varies depending on the material and thickness of the seal.

  • Flexibility: Flat gaskets must be flexible enough to compensate for unevenness in the sealing surfaces.

  • Springback: Springback describes the ability of the seal to return to its original shape after compression.

  • Creep behavior: The creep behavior describes the deformation of the seal under permanent load.


Acoustic properties – sound insulation with flat seals


In some applications, the acoustic properties of flat gaskets also play a role.


  • Sound insulation: Flat seals made of soft, porous materials can absorb sound waves and reduce the sound level.


Flat gaskets in use – diverse applications in all industries


Flat gaskets are indispensable in almost all industries. They are used in:


  • Mechanical engineering: Sealing of pumps, motors, gears

  • Plant engineering: Sealing of pipelines, containers, equipment

  • Chemical industry: sealing of reactors, containers

  • Pharmaceutical industry: Sealing of production plants

  • Food industry: sealing of machines, containers

  • Automotive: Sealing of engines, transmissions

  • Household: Sealing of faucets, shower heads


Rexio® – your partner for the perfect flat gasket


Rexio® is your competent partner for high-quality flat gaskets in all areas of application. We offer you:


  • Many years of experience: Benefit from our expertise in sealing technology.

  • Individual advice: We will find the optimal flat gasket for your individual requirements.

  • Comprehensive range: Discover our large selection of flat gaskets made from various materials.

  • Custom-made products: We manufacture flat gaskets according to your specific specifications.

  • Quality and reliability: We rely on the highest quality standards and certified products.


Find the right flat gasket for your application now!



Our experienced team will be happy to advise you and help you choose the optimal flat gasket. Contact us today!

2 views0 comments

Comments


bottom of page