How to Prevent A Gasket Blowout

Blowouts can result in catastrophic failures due to the escape of contained materials, including liquids, gases, or other hazardous substances. The sudden release of these materials can create a dangerous environment for personnel and equipment. Therefore, ensuring the integrity and effectiveness of gaskets is crucial for promoting a safer working environment.

What causes a blowout?

A blowout occurs when internal pressure exceeds the strength of the gasket, overwhelming the forces that compress and retain it within the assembly. While no single method can completely prevent a blowout, several vital factors can significantly reduce the likelihood of one occurring and enhance overall safety.

How do you prevent a blowout?

First, it's essential to remember that thinner is often better when it comes to gasket materials. If the gasket material is too thick, it can place more strain on the joint assembly. Over time, an excessively thick gasket may experience creep, which is a long-term deformation that occurs under a constant load, leading to bolt relaxation. This relaxation reduces resistance to internal pressure loads as the initial clamping forces on the gasket diminish. Another critical factor is minimizing vibration. Excessive vibration can increase stress on the gasket, compromising its effectiveness. Implementing measures to reduce vibration can enhance the chances of a successful gasket application and improve the longevity of the seal. 

Temperature considerations are essential. The gasket material must endure the highest and lowest temperatures it may encounter in its environment. Using materials that are not suited for extreme temperatures can lead to premature failure, increasing the risk of blowouts. Finally, ensuring chemical compatibility between the sealed materials, gasket, and external environment is crucial for maintaining elastomeric properties. Incompatible materials can lead to degradation, compromising the seal and potentially creating hazardous situations.

At PGC, we understand the complexities of selecting appropriate materials for your applications. Our team is here to answer your questions and guide you in finding the best gasket materials to enhance safety and performance. Contact us today to ensure your systems operate smoothly and securely.