Metal fastener gaskets can be categorized into multiple types based on material, structure, and function. Different gasket types suit varying working environments and connection requirements, making proper selection crucial for ensuring effective connections.
By material, the most common types include carbon steel gaskets, stainless steel gaskets, copper alloy gaskets, and aluminum alloy gaskets. Carbon steel gaskets offer low cost and high strength, suitable for ordinary mechanical connections at ambient temperatures and low pressures, such as securing machine tool bases; Stainless steel washers (e.g., 304, 316 grades) provide excellent corrosion resistance, making them suitable for humid or corrosive environments like chemical pipelines and marine equipment. Copper alloy washers (e.g., brass, copper) offer good toughness and strong sealing properties, commonly used in high-pressure connections for hydraulic systems and refrigeration equipment. Aluminum alloy washers are lightweight with good thermal conductivity, frequently applied in aerospace, electronics, and other scenarios demanding weight reduction and heat dissipation.
Structurally, metal gaskets can be categorized into flat gaskets, wave gaskets, and tooth gaskets. Flat gaskets feature a simple structure and high versatility, making them the most widely used type. Wave gaskets possess elasticity to compensate for minor deformations in mating surfaces, making them suitable for equipment with minimal vibration, such as securing motor end caps. Tooth gaskets enhance sealing effectiveness through deformation of their teeth, offering greater pressure resistance and commonly used in high-pressure pipelines and pressure vessel connections.
When selecting a gasket, comprehensive consideration of operating temperature, pressure, medium characteristics, and the materials of the components being joined is essential to ensure optimal performance and prevent joint failure.