What are the Most Commonly Used Materials in Sanitary Gaskets?

Jun 13, 2018 Gaskets | Materials | PTFE

Sanitary gaskets are used in a variety of applications. The main objective of these products is to form a seal clamp connection. Based on the application or industry they are used, these gaskets can have different shapes, and sizes. Another thing that varies based on their usage is the material used. Sanitary gaskets are manufactured from a wide range of materials. You must be thinking, which is the right material for your gasket? The following post is aimed at answering this question arising in your mind, by explaining the different materials used in these gaskets, and the selection considerations.

What Are Different Materials Used to Manufacture Sanitary Gaskets?

Sanitary gaskets come in a wide range of materials, with each having its own set of properties, pros, cons, and areas of application. However, the elastomeric materials are used on a larger scale. Here are a few elastomeric materials that are most commonly used for manufacturing the gaskets:

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Ethylene-Propylene-Diene-Monomer (EPDM): EPDM is one of the most commonly used materials in manufacturing of sanitary gaskets. This elastomer material is known for its excellent chemical resistance and exceptional thermal properties. Besides this, the material is cost-effective, which adds to its popularity. This material is generally marked with green dots, thus making it easier for a person to identify.

Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE): This material is known for its outstanding resistance to process fluids. The PTFE material can be selected, when you do not require low-temperature flexibility or gasket memory. The material has the capability to operate under a vast temperature range. In addition to this, the chemical compatibility of PTFE is also good.

Fluoroelastomer (FKM): The FKM is the right material, if the gaskets are to be used in the Cleaning-in-Place (CIP), or Sterilization-in-Place (SIP) applications. This material has the capability to handle acids, alkalis, alcohols, and oils, which makes it suitable for extremely aggressive chemical applications. FKM material is most commonly referred to as Viton and is marked with yellow and white dots.

Nitrile Buna Rubber (U): Nitrile Buna Rubber is yet another most widely used elastomer material in the sanitary gaskets. What makes them popular? They are economic and showcase an excellent chemical compatibility with several chemicals, which are moderately aggressive. For applications that involve a continuous temperature of 210 °F, and an intermittent temperature of 240 °F, this material is the right choice. This material can be identified by the red dot.

Factors That Decide the Choice of Sanitary Gasket Materials

If you are willing to choose a sanitary gasket of material that suits the application, then you might want to take into account some important factors.

First, you need to decide on the main category of the material from the following:

Elastomeric
Fibrous
Non-Metallic
Metallic

Once you have decided on the category, here are some more factors that are important to consider:

Chemical Compatibility
Operating Temperature Range
Internal Pressure
Application of the Gasket

This makes it very clear what materials are commonly used in the sanitary gaskets. Also, now that you know what all factors to consider while buying these gaskets for your requirements, it will be easier for you to make the right choice. If you are still confused about the right material, then you can seek help from an expert. SSP Manufacturing, Inc. is one such experienced, trusted, and well-known manufacturer and suppliers of good quality sanitary gaskets in a variety of material options.