Not all gaskets are made of an elastomer material; some of them are made of metal. There are metal gaskets used in automotive engines as well as aircraft. Like all gaskets, they are designed to protect against leaks. They seal the mating surfaces of two joined parts, thereby preventing fluids or gases from leaking.
What Are Metal Gaskets?
Metal gaskets are mechanical seals made of metal. Some of them are made of high-carbon steel. Others are made of stainless steel or aluminum. Regardless, metal gaskets are characterized by a metal construction.
You can find metal gaskets in different sizes and shapes. Some of them are small, whereas others are large. Metal gaskets are also available in different shapes, such as circular and rectangular. All metal gaskets, however, are made of metal.
Common types of metal gaskets include:
- Ring joint
- Metal jacketed
- Camprofile
- Spiral wound
What Are Metal Gaskets Used For?
Metal gaskets are used in sealing applications. They work by sealing mating surfaces. When two parts are pressed together, the mating surface may require a gasket. The parts may contain passages for pressurized fluids or gases. As these pressurized fluids or gases travel through the mating surface, they may leak. Gaskets, such as metal gaskets, protect against leaks by sealing mating surfaces.
Mating surfaces can leak, especially if the fluid or gas that travels through them is pressurized. Gaskets offer a solution. Gaskets, including metal gaskets, are designed to create a leakproof seal. They can resist heat and pressure while sealing the mating surfaces with which they are used.
Benefits of Metal Gaskets
While you can find gaskets made of other materials, metal gaskets offer several advantages. They can typically withstand more heat and pressure than traditional, nonmetal gaskets. Nonmetal gaskets may fail when exposed to high pounds per square (PSI). Metal gaskets, conversely, will continue to provide a leakproof seal under this pressure.
Metal gaskets are also long-lasting. You don’t have to worry about them degrading. Whether a gasket is made of high-carbon steel, stainless steel or even aluminum, it will last a long time. Metal gaskets such as these won’t rot, resulting in a long lifespan.
Some metal gaskets feature a finish. There are silver-plated metal gaskets, for instance, that feature a silver finish. They are available in many of the same aforementioned metals, such as steel, but they are coated with a silver finish. This silver finish enhances their aesthetics while simultaneously protecting the underlying metal.
