Gaskets and seals are used to prevent leaks. Despite the similarity in their purpose, they are both uniquely different. If you are scratching your head wondering which one is right for your project, you are not alone. Below you will find helpful information to guide you on which to choose. So, gaskets vs O-rings: what’s the difference?
Gaskets vs O-Rings: What’s the Difference?
Despite having a similar purpose when it comes to leak prevention, gaskets and O-rings are uniquely different. Gaskets are flat pieces of material used to seal two, separate flat surfaces. They are used in static applications to seal joints, flanges, and other surfaces to prevent leakage. They are usually sealed with a bolted joint and are most often shaped like circles. But can exist in a number of different shapes depending on the unique needs of the project. Also, they come in a variety of different materials, including supple materials, rigid polymers, and metals.
However, they can end up layered with different material coatings depending on the application. Gasket seals are used in a vast array of applications, including electric motors, power generators, and transformers; the food and beverage industry; various electronics; medical devices; handheld communication devices, like cell phones; the automotive industry; and the aerospace and defense industries. They remain produced using a broad range of manufacturing techniques, including:
- Rubber extrusion
- Waterjet cutting
- Hot vulcanized and cold bond splicing
- Custom die cutting
- Compression
- Injection
- Transfer molding; and precision slitting
O-Rings Key Factors
On the other hand, O-rings are round pieces that set in a groove which creates a seal between two separate parts. O-rings are consistently the same shape but can vary in thickness due to the unique specifications and needs of the project. The seal comes in a variety of different materials. The most common include Neoprene, EPDM Rubber and Fluorocarbon (Viton), PTFE, and Nitrile (Buna). O-rings find use in various applications, including:
- Hydraulic seals
- The pulp and paper industry
- Pipe joints
- The pharmaceutical and medical fields
- Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning
- Equipment with fluid seal points
- Food processing
- Oil seals
- And fuel systems
The seals’ production involves using various manufacturing techniques. These include extrusion, compression molding, injection molding, transfer molding, or machining.
Choosing Between Gaskets and O-Rings
If you need to determine whether a gasket or O-ring is right for your project, consider the environment, function of the seal, and features such as the shape, temperature, and pressure. For example, when it comes to shape, a non-circular joint that requires a good seal would likely need a gasket. An O-ring would be very difficult to use as they are round. Gaskets can be easily customized into any shape which allows them to be more useful in a wider variety of applications.
When it comes to considering temperature, the temperature of the operating equipment is necessary as it will determine the best material to use for both the gasket and O-ring. Gaskets are the best choice as it can withstand extremely high temperatures. As for pressure, O-rings generally perform better than gaskets. Taking a comprehensive look at your project’s needs is necessary to determine which is right for your project.
Specialty Seals
Specialty seals may be necessary for your project. A specialty seal is necessary when a modification to an existing seal is necessary to fit your particular application. This can help improve the outcome of your project, simplify the assembly process, improve tolerances, and reduce installation times. If you need specialty seals for your project, it is important to work with a skilled manufacturer. Contact Real Seal today for all of your specialty seals as they are industry leaders with a proven record of success.
