While gaskets and O-rings serve a similar purpose of sealing air or liquids, both are designed for different situations and look different. Here, the team at Mercer Gasket & Shim will explain the differences between these sealing solutions to help you determine the best solution for your application.
Gasket and O-Ring Overview
What are gaskets and O-rings?
A gasket is a flat material used to create a seal between two flat surfaces, usually using a bolted connection. O-rings are circular annular pieces that must be placed in a groove to create a seal between two parts. While washers are most commonly circular, they can also be made in a variety of other shapes. Both gaskets and O-rings are made from flexible materials, but gaskets can also be made from other rigid polymers and metals. O-ring thicknesses can be customized to fit unique specifications, while gaskets can be layered with different coatings to best suit a variety of applications.
Gasket O-Ring Applications
Common Applications of Gaskets
Electric Motors, Generators and Transformers
electronic product
Handheld Communication Equipment
Telecommunications equipment
Aerospace and Defense Industry
traffic and cars
medical equipment
Food and beverage industry
Common Applications of O-Rings
Hydraulic seals
pipe joint
Equipment with fluid sealing points
HVAC – Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning
oil seal
Fuel System
food processing
Pharmaceutical and Medical Industry
Pulp and Paper Industry
Choose the best application for you
Consider the environment and function of the seal when deciding whether a gasket or o-ring is best for your application. When choosing the best seal, pay attention to characteristics such as shape, temperature and pressure.
O-rings are difficult to use due to their circular shape when a good seal is required for non-circular joints. Gaskets can be customized to almost any shape, enabling them to be used as seals in a wider variety of applications.
The operating temperature of the equipment will determine the best material for making an O-ring or gasket. While both can withstand a wide temperature range, gaskets are best suited for extreme temperature situations. However, O-rings outperform washers in extreme pressure applications.
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