Selecting the best seal for an application involves answering many questions. Temperature and other environmental factors can affect the long-term physical properties of a compound. Therefore, unless a particular application already exists, information on which to base a decision can sometimes be a difficult process.
The best place to begin a search is with existing information. Look for a material with a solid balance of the properties desired for the application. Information about the original material and service conditions can be of help when seeking a replacement material for an existing product. For new products, similar applications can provide valuable information.
Material Selection
The first seal or gasket design consideration is to determine whether an application calls for a sponge or a solid material. Along with this initial determination, closing force requirement needs to be considered.
The primary difference between sponge and dense from the design standpoint is, by example:
In either instance, material selection depends upon the physical characteristics and attributes needed in the application.
A second consideration in the materials selection process is the sealing environment.
Once these questions are answered, it becomes easier to match the right material to the application.
A third consideration is exactly how the seal or gasket will be attached.
