Many people are surprised to learn that gaskets are available in metal materials. Some gaskets, of course, are made of an elastic synthetic material like rubber, but others are made of metal. These metal gaskets serve the same purpose of sealing mating surfaces, but they offer a few key advantages over rubber gaskets.
Metal Gaskets Explained
Metal gaskets are exactly what they sound like: gaskets made of metal. Like all gaskets, they are used to seal mating surfaces. Mating surfaces are the areas where two or more fluid- or gas-carrying passages meet. As fluid or gas heats up, it will expand. This thermal expansion will create pressure that can manifest in the form of leaks. A gasket, however, will prevent the pressurized fluid or gas from leaking out of the mating surface.
Gaskets are available in different materials. You can find them in rubber and other elastic/synthetic materials, and you can find gaskets in metal.
Heat Resistant
You can rest assured knowing that metal gaskets are heat resistant. Most types of gaskets offer at least some level of heat resistance, but metal gaskets are superior in this regard. They can withstand hotter temperatures than other types of gaskets. Even as the fluid or gas heats up, metal gaskets will continue to offer a leakproof mating surface.
High-Pressure Applications
Metal gaskets are better suited for high-pressure applications than conventional gaskets. Automotive engines, for instance, often feature a metal head gasket for this reason. During combustion, automotive engines produce a lot of pressure. Combustion gas, coolant and oil are all pressurized. To prevent leaks, many automakers use a metal head gasket, such as a stainless steel or copper head gasket. Metal gaskets can withstand more pounds per square inch (PSI) of pressure than conventional gaskets.
Versatile
Metal gaskets are versatile. As shown in the photo above, some of them consist of O-rings. O-rings are gaskets that are shaped like the letter O. While metal gaskets are available in O-ring styles, they aren’t limited to this style. You can find them in many different sizes and shapes.
Doesn’t Rot
There’s no risk of rotting with metal gaskets. You can use them for many years without fear of them rotting. Some metal gaskets are made of different types of metal. Whether a gasket is made of stainless steel or carbon steel, though, it won’t rot.
