Metallic Gaskets
These include the Spiral Wound and Kammprofile designs using stainless steel and exotic alloys. Our offerings extend to a diverse range of high-temperature and chemically resistant fillers and facings, featuring flexible graphite, vermiculite, and PTFE (Teflon™).
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Non-Metallic Gaskets
The Thomson Performance Sealing range encompasses a diverse selection of products, including compressed sheet material, Teflon™ (PTFE), and elastomeric options. These are designed to meet the requirements of demanding industrial applications
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Custom Gaskets
We specialize in crafting custom-cut gaskets and seals from a variety of materials, including compressed sheet, rubber, flexible graphite, and Teflon. In addition, we provide molded rubber products and rubber extrusions tailored to meet customer specifications.
Custom
Compressed Fiber Sheet
High-quality and innovative compressed fiber gasket solutions for general service as well as the most challenging industrial applications.
PTFE / Teflon™
Thomson Eclipse is the new standard for universal chemical compatibility and optimal safety.
Flexible Graphite
Exceptional high temperature capability an broad chemical range, Thomson flexible graphite is the new benchmark for safety and versatility.
Rubber Gaskets
Wide selection of rubber, bulk rolls and sheet. Nitrile, Neoprene, Silicon, Viton, Aflas EPDM, NSF 61 certified and much more - in stock, and ready to ship.
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Textiles Product
High temperature fiberglass braided rope ceramics, tadpole tape, drop warp tape, door seals, boilers and more.
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NSF 61
NSF 61 is made from materials that have been certified to comply with the NSF/ANSI/CAN Standard 61 for drinking water. A.R. Thomson Group is a certified NSF fabricator.
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OptiLoad®
Specially designed for low-load applications such as plastic and glass lined flanges found in the chemical processing industry. Available in a wide range of materials such as Viton, Aflas, EPDM and PTFE for extreme chemical service.
Gore®
Gore-Tex is made from ePTFE (expanded Teflon™) material which provides universal chemical compatibility and reliability at high pressures and temperatures.
Garlock®
A long standing brand synonymous with quality and reliability in a wide range of industrial applications.
Gaskets find common use in:
- Engines
- Pipes
- Valves
- Various mechanical systems
where a secure seal is crucial to prevent the escape of fluids or gases.
These seals are typically crafted from flexible materials like rubber, cork, or metal, selected based on the specific gasket application and sealing requirements. Gaskets come in diverse shapes and sizes to accommodate different joint and connection types. Their primary role is to hinder leaks and compensate for irregularities or gaps in the mating surfaces.
How Can I Choose A Gasket?
Choosing the right gasket might seem like a simple task, but it's crucial for the smooth operation and longevity of machinery and systems. Whether you're dealing with pipelines, engines, or industrial equipment, selecting the appropriate gasket involves considering several factors to ensure a proper seal and optimal performance. Here's a guide to help you navigate through the process:
Understanding the Application:
Before diving into gasket specifications, it's essential to have a comprehensive understanding of the application where the gasket will be used. Consider factors such as:
Operating Conditions:
Take note of the temperature, pressure, and fluid compatibility requirements. Different gaskets are designed to withstand varying levels of heat, pressure, and chemical exposure, which is particularly important in industries like petrochemical and food processing where extreme temperatures or corrosive substances are common.
Flange Type:
Assess the type of flanges involved, whether it's raised face, flat face, or ring joint. The gasket should be compatible with the flange type to ensure a proper fit and seal, especially in environments where precise sealing is critical for safety and efficiency.
System Media:
Determine the type of fluid or gas that the gasket will be sealing, considering the specific requirements of industries such as food processing where hygiene and contamination prevention are paramount. Some gaskets are specifically designed for certain media types to prevent leaks and chemical reactions.
Gasket Material:
Selecting the appropriate material is perhaps the most critical aspect of choosing a gasket, especially in industries like petrochemical where the consequences of a seal failure can be severe.
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Rubber: Ideal for applications with low to moderate pressure and temperature requirements. Rubber gaskets are known for their flexibility and resistance to water and some chemicals, making them suitable for a variety of applications including food processing where FDA-approved materials may be required.
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Metal: Suitable for high-pressure and high-temperature applications, particularly in petrochemical industries where extreme temperatures and corrosive substances are prevalent. Metal gaskets, such as those made from stainless steel or copper, provide excellent durability and chemical resistance, ensuring reliable sealing performance in harsh environments.
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Non-Asbestos: These gaskets are designed to replace traditional asbestos gaskets due to health and environmental concerns. Non-asbestos gaskets offer similar performance characteristics without the risks associated with asbestos, making them suitable for applications where safety and environmental considerations are paramount.
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PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene): Known for its excellent chemical resistance and low friction properties, PTFE gaskets are commonly used in applications involving corrosive fluids and extreme temperatures, making them ideal for industries like petrochemical where chemical compatibility and temperature resistance are crucial.
Gasket Design:
The design of the gasket plays a significant role in its sealing capabilities. Consider factors such as:
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Shape: Gaskets come in various shapes, including spiral wound, ring joint, and sheet gaskets. Each design offers unique benefits in terms of sealing efficiency and ease of installation, ensuring optimal performance in demanding environments like petrochemical facilities where precise sealing is essential for safety and regulatory compliance.
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Thickness: The thickness of the gasket should be chosen based on the flange surface conditions and the level of compression required to achieve a proper seal, particularly in applications involving extreme temperatures where thermal expansion and contraction can affect sealing performance.
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Gasket Surface Finish: Ensure that the flange surfaces are smooth and free from any defects that could affect the gasket's ability to seal effectively, especially in industries like food processing where hygiene and contamination prevention are critical considerations.
Installation and Maintenance:
Even the best gasket can fail if not installed correctly or maintained properly. Follow these guidelines:
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Proper Installation: Ensure that the gasket is installed according to the manufacturer's recommendations, including the use of appropriate torque values and alignment of flange surfaces, particularly in industries like petrochemical where precise installation is crucial for safety and regulatory compliance.
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Regular Inspection: Periodically inspect gaskets for signs of wear, damage, or degradation, especially in applications involving extreme temperatures or corrosive substances where gaskets may degrade more quickly. Replace any gaskets that show signs of deterioration to prevent leaks and system failures, ensuring continuous operation and minimizing downtime.
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Consider Environmental Factors: Take into account external factors such as vibration, thermal cycling, and exposure to chemicals or UV radiation, which can impact the performance and lifespan of the gasket, particularly in industries like petrochemical where harsh environmental conditions are common. Choose gaskets that are specifically designed to withstand these conditions for long-term reliability and performance.
Conclusion:
Choosing the right types of gaskets requires careful consideration of various factors, including application requirements, material compatibility, design features, and installation procedures, especially in industries like petrochemical and food processing where safety, reliability, and regulatory compliance are critical. By taking the time to assess these factors thoroughly and selecting gaskets that meet the specific needs of your application, you can ensure reliable sealing performance, minimize downtime, and enhance the efficiency and safety of your equipment and systems.
Gasket Industry Solutions:
Chemical Processing:
Essential for maintaining equipment integrity in the chemical processing industry, gasket solutions play a crucial role in preventing leaks and ensuring operational efficiency.
Mining:
In mining, reliable sealing solutions, including gasket industry solutions, protect equipment exposed to harsh conditions, enhancing the longevity of mining operations.
Oil & Gas:
In the oil and gas industry, vital components like gaskets contribute to effective sealing, minimizing leak risks and ensuring operational safety and reliability.
Marine:
Essential for marine applications, gasket industry solutions offer effective sealing for engines, pumps, and ship components, withstanding challenging marine environments.
Pulp and Paper:
Playing a pivotal role, gaskets provide sealing solutions for equipment in the pulp and paper industry, ensuring efficient and reliable paper manufacturing processes.
Construction:
Contributing to structural integrity, gasket solutions provide reliable seals for pipelines, HVAC systems, and other critical construction components in the construction industry.
Aerospace:
Integral in aerospace, gaskets ensure proper sealing of aircraft components, engines, and systems, contributing to safety and performance.
Sawmills:
Employed in sawmills, gasket industry solutions provide effective sealing for equipment, preventing contaminants from compromising machinery functionality.
Food & Beverage:
Vital in the food and beverage industry, gaskets maintain equipment integrity, meeting stringent hygiene standards and preventing contamination.
Agriculture:
In agriculture, gasket solutions contribute to efficient equipment operation, providing reliable seals to prevent leaks and maintain optimal performance.
Automotive:
While A.R. Thomson Group doesn't offer automotive gaskets, this sector heavily relies on specialized solutions for sealing critical components, ensuring vehicle performance and reliability (eg. engine block and cylinder head gasket).