Types of Gaskets Used in Oil and Gas

Flange gaskets create a pressure-tight connection between pipe joints, preventing potentially hazardous leaks. Using the right type of gasket in the oil and gas industry enhances the integrity of these piping systems. 

In This Article

• Gasket Materials
• Types of Gaskets Used in the Oil and Gas Industry
• Selecting the Ideal Type of Gasket for Your Project
• Connect With Global Elastomeric Products, Inc. to Discuss Our Elastomers

Gasket Materials

Explore three types of gasket materials along with their primary features:

• Metallic: Metal gaskets are usually made from aluminum, soft iron, stainless steel and low-carbon steel. They are ideal for high-pressure and high-temperature applications in the oil and gas industry. These robust gaskets either have oval or octagonal cross sections and require high-tension bolting.
• Non-metallic: Common materials used to manufacture non-metallic gaskets include rubber, graphite, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) and compressed non-asbestos fiber (CNAF). Non-metallic gaskets are often used in low-pressure and low-temperature applications and do not need high-tension bolting. 
• Composite: Semi-metallic or composite gaskets are made from metallic and non-metallic materials. Manufacturers use different material combinations based on the gasket's application.

Types of Gaskets Used in the Oil and Gas Industry

Here are a few common types of gaskets used in piping applications:

• Ring-type joint (RTJ) gaskets: RTJ gaskets are usually made from soft stainless steel and can withstand high pressures and temperatures. These gaskets are currently being phased out due to plastic deformation within the flange, which necessitates frequent replacements to maintain the flange's structural integrity. Some applications of RTJ gaskets include valves used in the oil and gas industry.
• Kammprofile gaskets: Kammprofile or camprofile gaskets contain a stainless steel core with a graphite filler. They are often used in heat exchangers in the oil and gas industry since they can withstand a high bolt load. 
• Spiral wound gaskets: Semi-metallic spiral wound gaskets are one of the most common types of gaskets used in the oil and gas industry and can come with or without an inner ring. The inner ring strengthens the gasket by preventing a buildup of materials between the inner part of the gasket and the bore of a pipe. Spiral wound gaskets without rings often buckle under intense stress, which is unsuitable for high-pressure conditions.
• Envelope gaskets: Envelope gaskets have a stainless steel core covered with PTFE. They can withstand high temperatures, but the flanges on the gasket may slip when exposed to high pressures.
• Non-asbestos sheet material gaskets: These are typically made with PTFE, graphite or elastomers such as rubber. Depending on the type of elastomeric material, these gaskets can have chemical-resistant properties. They are often used with full-face flanges and are suitable for low pressures and temperatures. 

Selecting the Ideal Type of Gasket for Your Project

Before selecting a gasket, it's best to know the parameters of your project. Consider factors such as: 

• The temperature and pressure the gasket must withstand.
• The type of fluid passing through the pipes.
• The ability to compensate for movement during temperature and pressure changes.

Connect With Global Elastomeric Products, Inc. to Discuss Our Elastomers

Global Elastomeric Products, Inc. has provided quality elastomeric materials since 1963. We are proud to support the oil and gas industry by offering custom rubber seals for gaskets to enhance the integrity of your flange joints.

Explore our extensive inventory, or connect with us to discuss a custom solution.