When a gasket needs to be replaced, an off-the-shelf part may be the simplest solution. But industrial equipment does not always use a standard gasket size, shape or material. That's where custom gasket fabrication becomes especially useful.
A custom gasket can be fabricated for the dimensions, material and configuration required by a specific application. This can be particularly valuable when you're working with older equipment, unusual dimensions, a damaged original gasket or a part that is difficult to source.
Understanding the difference between stock and custom gaskets can help you determine which approach makes sense for your application.
Not Every Gasket Comes Off a Shelf
Stock gaskets can work well when the required size, shape, thickness and material are readily available. For common applications, purchasing an existing gasket can be a practical solution.
The challenge begins when the equipment requires something different. A non-standard bolt pattern, unusual outside diameter, special opening, discontinued part or specific material requirement can make a standard gasket difficult or impossible to use.
In those situations, fabricating the gasket to match the application can provide another option.
Stock Gaskets vs. Custom Gaskets
Neither option is automatically better. The right choice depends on the equipment, dimensions, material requirements and availability of the gasket you need.
Stock Gaskets
A stock gasket is manufactured in an established size, configuration and material and is typically intended for common applications.
- Common sizes and shapes
- Standard bolt patterns
- Frequently used applications
- Established material specifications
- Useful when the correct part is readily available
Custom Gaskets
A custom gasket is fabricated for a particular set of dimensions, shape, material or application requirements.
- Non-standard dimensions
- Unusual shapes or openings
- Specific material requirements
- Replacement of obsolete or unavailable gaskets
- Fabrication from samples, drawings or measurements
Common Reasons to Have a Gasket Custom Fabricated
The Original Gasket Is Obsolete
Older industrial equipment may use gaskets that are no longer readily available. If the original gasket or usable dimensions are available, a replacement may be fabricated without relying on an exact factory replacement.
The Dimensions Are Non-Standard
Equipment does not always conform to standard gasket dimensions. Custom fabrication allows the gasket to be produced for the required outside diameter, inside openings, bolt holes and overall shape.
You Have an Existing Sample
An old gasket can often provide valuable information about the required shape and dimensions. Even a worn or damaged sample may help establish the configuration needed for a replacement.
The Application Requires a Specific Material
Temperature, oils, chemicals, water, weather exposure and other operating conditions can influence gasket material selection. Custom fabrication makes it possible to combine the required gasket shape with an appropriate material.
The Shape Is Unusual
Not every gasket is a simple ring or rectangle. Equipment may require irregular profiles, multiple openings, slots or specific bolt-hole locations that are better suited to custom cutting.
You Need a Short Production Run
Some industrial applications require only a small quantity of replacement gaskets. Custom fabrication can be useful when a limited number of parts are needed for maintenance, repair or specialized equipment.
Custom Fabrication Is About More Than Shape
Getting the dimensions right is only part of gasket selection. The gasket material also needs to be appropriate for the operating environment.
Industrial Rubber & Supply works with a range of gasket materials for different industrial applications. Material selection should take into account the conditions the gasket will encounter.
The correct gasket material depends on factors such as temperature, pressure, media, environmental exposure and the equipment being sealed. Those conditions should be considered before selecting a gasket material.
An Old Gasket Can Be a Useful Starting Point
If you're trying to replace a gasket and don't have a part number or original drawing, the existing gasket may still provide useful information.
Its overall shape, bolt-hole locations, openings and dimensions can help establish what needs to be reproduced. Depending on the condition of the sample, additional measurements or application information may also be needed.
This can be especially helpful with older machinery or equipment where replacement parts are difficult to identify.
Custom Gaskets Cut With Our Atom Flash Cutter
Industrial Rubber & Supply uses an Atom Flash Cutter for precision gasket fabrication. The cutting system allows gasket shapes to be produced from information such as an existing sample, drawing, CAD file or measurements.
Digital cutting is particularly useful for complex shapes, bolt patterns, openings and repeatable gasket dimensions.
What Information Helps With a Custom Gasket?
The more information available about the gasket and its application, the easier it is to understand what needs to be fabricated.
Custom Gaskets for Inland Empire Businesses
Industrial Rubber & Supply provides custom gasket fabrication from our San Bernardino location for industrial customers throughout the Inland Empire.
If you have an existing gasket, drawing, CAD file or measurements, bring the information to us and talk with our team about the application.
We can also help you review available gasket materials when the original material is known or the operating requirements need to be considered.
Need a Custom Gasket?
Talk with Industrial Rubber & Supply about custom gasket fabrication, gasket materials and replacement gasket applications. Visit us in San Bernardino or contact us to discuss what you need.
