What Materials Does A Custom Gasket Service Use Instead of Asbestos?

When considering gasket materials for a particular project, asbestos sometimes is in the mix because it was used in the past—it shouldn’t be.  For decades, asbestos was an extremely common gasket material because of its heat-resistant and nearly impenetrable properties.

The problem, of course, is that asbestos is also an extremely toxic and carcinogenic material, and it is outlawed in the US and most other industrialized nations.  This used to create design challenges for engineers, but today there are many proven asbestos replacements.  Talk to an experienced gasket manufacturer, like Precision Cutting Service, about which alternative material might be right for your application.

Some of these alternatives include:

Fiberglass

Fiberglass is a common asbestos replacement, because it has similar heat-resistant properties, plus it can be easily shaped because of its woven design. It has less tensile strength than asbestos, however,  so it may not be appropriate for applications where the gasket will be put under significant pressure.

Ceramic fiber

Ceramic fiber can be another great choice, because it exhibits the heat-resistant properties of ceramics, but without being as brittle.  Ceramic fiber can resist heats of 1000 °C (1832 °F).  If extra tensile strength is needed, glass can be added, although this reduces its temperature tolerance.

Polybenzimidazole (PBI) fiber 

PBI is a synthetic material created to be an asbestos alternative, although it is most commonly seen in wearable heat-resistant clothing, such as protective gear for firefighters.  However, it does get used by custom gasket services from time to time.

Aramid fiber

Aramid fiber, better known as Kevlar, is heat-resistant with high tensile strength.  Aramid fiber is a good choice for applications where there will be both high heat and high physical stress..  However, it’s an expensive material to work with, which is many engineers try to find more affordable alternatives.

C-4401

C4401 is one of the more popular materials used to replace asbestos because of its superb chemical and sealable properties and affordable price. It is an excellent choice for sealing liquids, steam and gases in compressors, flanges, pumps and valves. Better, still, it prevents dangerous airborne dust, the type that make asbestos so lethal.

Precision Cutting Service Delivers the Gaskets You Need

For more than 25 years, we have been cutting gaskets in all shapes and sizes and for every application out there. We are a custom gasket water jet cutting service that can help you find the perfect material for your next project.  Contact us for a free estimate on your order.