Seals and gaskets are an integral part of any industry. They are used for critical applications, so selection between seals & gasket is very crucial for any project. They are used to get durable solutions for high heat, gas & Chemical uses etc. They are designed in such a way that, they can help to maintain the required performance as per standards and specifications to reduce emission & avoid the possibilities of risk. But if you want to differentiate between these two things you might get puzzled, because apparently, these two elements perform the same function. But it does not mean that these two parts are the same. There are a few subtle differences between these two components. But before we discuss the differences, let us know what the seals and gaskets are.
A seal is used to join the system or mechanisms together by preventing leakage. These are used between engine parts, pumps and shafts etc. It also excludes contaminants and contains pressure. Generally, these types of seals are machine or moulded components and are flat or round in shape. Most of the seals are manufactured with rubber only or with an outer metal ring and rubber-made nests over the inner surface based on application. Correct installation of the seals is crucial because if by any chance it is not installed properly, there can be a serious issue in operation.
Seals are used for many things in various industries for various applications like Automotive, Railway, and Aerospace etc. Seals are commonly used for keeping leaks from appearing at the end of the shaft where it may come out of the cover and sealing the hydraulic lines. Often, seals are used in bearings which are surrounded by a rubber seal. It keeps the component from leaking and sometimes minimizes the amount of noise that may come during operation.
Below are some applications of seals in various industries:-
The seals used in automotive industries have excellent reliability, are long-lasting, and extremely silent. They can withstand heavy-duty use and extreme vibrations attributed to a running engine. Seals keep away dust and other debris away from the engine and other important components of the vehicle. It allows the vehicle to function & run properly. Some types of automotive seals are hydraulic seals, O-ring seals, lip seals, packings, etc.
Seals & O-rings are very much crucial for the overall function of the Aerospace industry. It requires withstanding extreme weather, enduring high airflow pressures, and facing huge variations in temperature. Design & selection of material to achieve the required aerospace standard are very important factors while manufacturing any type of seal for this industry. Some of the seals are made of composite materials or those materials with reinforcement of different fabrics in order to improve the performance of the seals. Its applications are found in airframes, engines, flight controls, actuator, landing gear, wheels, and brakes, etc. Sujan Industries has developed and validated such fibre-reinforced air intake/engine seal for the LCA aircraft.
The main factor for the rail industry is long-term durability which helps to increase the performance & life of a railway vehicle & transport system. Sealing products which are used in the railway industry must have the capability to withstand intensive use, provide safe and reliable operation. It resists to different weather conditions, varying temperatures, extreme climate conditions etc. The various applications of seals in the railway industry are in breaking system, passenger operations, rolling stock etc.
A gasket is a mechanical seal which covers the space between two or more mating surfaces. The main function of the gasket is to prevent leakage from or into the joined objects while under compression. A gasket is made from such a material that it is able to deform and tightly fill the space it is designed for, including any slight irregularities. It is important to understand the requirements of particular applications before making gasket selection. Gaskets must maintain a seal for an acceptable period against all the operational forces involved.
Proper selection of gasket depends upon the following factors:
1. Compatibility of the gasket material with the contact material.
2. Ability to withstand the pressure-temperature of the system.
3. The service life of the gasket.
Gaskets are used for many applications in various industries like Automotive, Railway, Aerospace, Electric, Transportation etc.
There are a few differences between seals and gaskets. These are as follows:
1. The gaskets are static pieces whereas seals are dynamic pieces.
2. The gasket is used to close the leakage between two static parts. It doesn’t show any relative motion. But the seal is used to avoid leakage between two parts which show relative motion.
3. Unlike gaskets, seals don’t allow dirt or dust to enter into the joint.
4. If the gasket breaks down, it only needs to be replaced with a new one. But if the seal fails, both the seal and bearing needs to be replaced with a new set.
5. Unlike seals, gaskets are comparatively handy.
6. Although gaskets and seals both are used to stop the fluid from slipping out due to the compressive forces. However, once installed, the gasket can’t be moved. It’s a non-moving object, unlike the seals.
Sujan Industries is the leading manufacturer and supplier of these crucial parts in India and abroad. We use various material like Neoprene, Silicone, EPDM, Viton (Fluorocarbon), Nitrile (Buna-N), SBR, Butyl, Natural, Acrylic (ACM), Vamac (AEM), Polyurethane, Fluorosilicone, Santoprene, Hydrogenated Nitrile (HNBR), ECO rubber etc. based on the application of the product & requirement of the customer. Our excellence has been built on our ability to provide our valued customers with the most effective designing, engineering and manufacturing solutions to meet their most demanding & critical applications. Get in Touch with us to get better technology seals & gaskets for your challenging projects.