How to Select a Gasket for Steam Service?
Flanged connections in industrial installations require appropriate sealing to ensure reliable system operation and safe use. A key aspect when selecting the right type of seal is the characteristics of the medium, in this case steam, as well as operating conditions such as temperature and pressure.
Type of steam and its influence on gasket selection
The basic distinction that should be made when analysing operating conditions is the type of steam. We distinguish, among others:
1. Saturated steam – occurs most often under atmospheric conditions, where the medium temperature is approximately 100°C. Under such conditions, standard flat gaskets made of commonly available materials such as Temasil NG, GAMBIT AF-200 and KLINGERSIL C4400 can be used. Example photos below:
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These materials perform well at moderate temperatures and pressures, ensuring tightness and resistance to steam.
2. Superheated steam – is formed when saturated steam is heated above the saturation point without an increase in pressure. The temperature of such steam can reach values of up to approximately 250°C, and sometimes more, which significantly increases the requirements for sealing materials. In such applications, it is recommended to use gaskets made of materials with increased thermal resistance, such as:
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Gaskets made of graphite from the POLBERIS shop – both solid and reinforced – provide excellent resistance to high temperatures, which makes them ideal for use with superheated steam.
Graphite gaskets for special applications
For applications requiring even higher resistance, particularly in installations operating under high pressure and extreme temperature conditions, the use of reinforced graphite gaskets is recommended, e.g.:
| SIGRAFLEX UNIVERSAL | TEMAGRAPH TI | SIGRAFLEX HOCHDRUCK PRO |
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Key aspects of gasket selection
It is recommended to refer to temperature and pressure dependency tables and charts for the specific gasket sheet, which are available in the manufacturer's documentation. Only in this way can you make sure that the selected material is within the permissible application limits. Alternatively, please write to us by email: biuro@polberis or call 632614202. We will select the gasket ourselves.
What should you consider when choosing the right seal for steam?
1) Price is important. When you do not have to, do not overpay. We will select the most cost-effective option for you.
2) Quality. Choose a gasket that will withstand the parameters of your installation: medium, pressure and size.
Which gasket should you choose for steam from the PolBeris shop? The TEMAPRAPH TI gasket is most often chosen, it has a relatively low price. However, it is not always the best solution. We offer all the gaskets listed above, they have different advantages, and every user has different preferences.
If you are looking for seals, write to us by email at biuro@polberis.pl or call 632614202. We will be happy to prepare a price proposal for you.
You can find gaskets in the POLBERIS here>>