A gasket is something that we hear about often, but many of us don’t have a clear idea of what it does and what function it serves. However, the odds are high that you’ve come into contact with a gasket and may not have known it. Furthermore, the odds are even higher that you regularly use a piece of equipment that depends on gaskets to perform well. So, that said, what exactly do gaskets do?
By definition, a gasket is a mechanical seal that fills the space between two or more mating surfaces, often to prevent leakage while the joined objects are under compression. So, essentially, gaskets fill in the spaces where components of a machine or fixture have gaps. This not only helps to prevent leakage, as mentioned, but it also reduces friction, which, in some cases, makes the equipment safer to use, and in every case, prevents the components from wearing too soon.
Gaskets can be made from a variety of materials, including plastic, metals, and rubber, and the material used is usually based on the application of the machine. For example, O-ring gaskets that are found in faucets are made of rubber, as another material, such as a metal, would corrode faster from the moisture and pressure.
Gaskets are found in just about every type of machinery used in a wide range of industries, and while stock gaskets are often easy to find, custom gaskets are more beneficial in most circumstances, especially when the equipment being used is proprietary or designed specifically for a certain business. Custom gaskets are measured and cut to fit precisely in place, reducing the risk of slippage and excess wear and tear.
If you work for a business, especially in a manufacturing industry, that is in need of custom gaskets, place your trust in the expert staff at Automated Gasket Corporation. With extensive experience manufacturing all types of gaskets for a wide range of applications, we have the skills that are needed to quickly and efficiently create custom gaskets for your equipment. Contact us today to learn how our custom gaskets can help you business!