Skip to main content

Understanding Sizing of Semi-Metallic Gaskets When Replacing Soft Gaskets


Sizing Semi-Metallic Gaskets
When Replacing Soft Gaskets

When replacing soft gaskets with semi-metallic gaskets, it's important to understand the sizing differences and considerations. The following guidelines provide suggested dimensions based on experience to help you choose the appropriate non-metallic gasket size to replace a soft gasket. These sizings are not mandatory but serve as useful recommendations.

1. When Flange Dimensions Are Provided

If the customer provides the dimensions of the flange, the following guidelines can be used to determine the appropriate gasket size:

  • Gasket Inner Diameter (I.D.): The inner diameter of the gasket should be the bore size of the flange plus a minimum of 1/8".

  • Gasket Outer Diameter (O.D.): The outer diameter can be up to the bolt hole circle diameter minus one bolt hole diameter. This applies when the proposed gasket width corresponds to the standard width of semi-metallic gaskets, which is typically 1/2", 3/4", or 1".

    If the desired gasket width does not match these standard widths, you can choose an appropriate standard width for the gasket and use an outer ring to centralize the gasket. This approach helps in maintaining the proper placement and sealing effectiveness. For example, you might consider using the Maxiprofile type LA1 or LA3 to achieve the desired fit.

2. When Soft Gasket Dimensions Are Provided

If the customer provides the dimensions of an existing soft gasket, you can follow these steps to specify the dimensions for a semi-metallic gasket:

  • Semi-Metallic Gasket Inner Diameter (I.D.): This should be the same as the inner diameter of the soft gasket.

  • Semi-Metallic Gasket Outer Diameter (O.D.): The approach for determining the outer diameter is the same as described above. Ensure the O.D. is up to the bolt hole circle diameter minus one bolt hole diameter, depending on the standard width of the gasket.


     

Conclusion

Replacing soft gaskets with semi-metallic ones requires careful consideration of the gasket dimensions to ensure a proper fit and effective sealing. By following the above guidelines based on either flange or existing soft gasket dimensions, you can make an informed decision on the appropriate gasket size. Remember, while these suggestions are based on industry experience, always verify the sizing with the specific requirements and conditions of the application.

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

Which Removable Insulation Cover Materials to chose?

Flexible, removable insulation covers find application in heavy industries where swift or regular access to equipment is essential. These covers are crucial for insulating heat (or cold) to ensure safety, energy efficiency, and precision in industrial processes. A common inquiry revolves around the choice of fabric under specific circumstances. One pivotal factor to contemplate is whether the material is in direct contact with the equipment or exposed to external elements.   Presented below is a Decision Table to assist you in making informed choices:   Link We hope this table will facilitate your choice next time you require flexible removable cover insulation. Call Robco or Prodimax if you need further information.

Que signifie "Fire-Safe" pour le choix d'un joint d'étanchéité ?

 Dans le processus de sélection des matériaux de joints, de nombreuses questions portent sur le terme "sécurité incendie". Examinons brièvement les deux méthodes d'essai au feu les plus couramment utilisées pour les joints : API 6FA ET API 607. API 6FA : Le test 6FA-re de l'American Petroleum Institute est utilisé pour qualifier les vannes destinées aux procédés chimiques. La bride est assemblée selon les procédures de boulonnage appropriées et tous les paramètres tels que la contrainte et le couple sont enregistrés. Des thermocouples sont montés à 1 pouce de l'extérieur de la bride (figure 1). La vanne est enveloppée d'une flamme à l'aide de quatre brûleurs au propane disposés symétriquement autour de l'extérieur de la bride. La température de la flamme doit être comprise entre 1400ºF et 1800ºF (moyenne des deux thermocouples) pendant une période de combustion de 30 minutes à partir de l'allumage. La température est maintenue et aucune valeur n...

What does Fire-Safe mean when choosing a Gasket?

  In the process of gasket material selection, many inquiries point to the term “fire-safe”. Lets briefly look at the two most commonly used gasket fire testing methods: API 6FA & API 607. API 6FA: The American Petroleum Institute’s 6FA-re test is used to qualify valves for chemical process service.  The flange is assembled using proper bolt-up procedures and all parameters such as stress and torque are recorded. Thermocouples are mounted 1” away from the outside of the flange (Figure 1). The valve is enveloped in flame using four propane burners arranged symmetrically around the outside of the flange. The flame temperature should be 1400ºF to 1800ºF (average of the two thermocouples) for a burn period of 30 minutes from ignition. The temperature is maintained with no reading less than 1300ºF. An internal water pressure amounting to 75% of the flange rating is applied throughout the test and the leakage rate is continually measured. The test rig is then allowed t...