Regardless
of the manufacturer, the basics are the filler and
the elastomer used. While no two compounds (or the
% of filler) are identical, the basic Elastomers
are: NBR (Buna-N), SBR, EPDM or Neoprene. If you
examine which material you need (as defined by the
application) and select the non-asbestos gasket
material with that elastomer you will usually do
well. This method will also allow you to select a
competitive brand that will serve your application.
No two materials are identical so caution must
always be exercised. In general the common "Binders"
are:
NBR
- good for oils, gas, mild chemicals and water
SBR
- good for saturated Steam, mild chemicals inert gas
and water
Neoprene
- good for saturated steam, refrigerants, oils,
fuels, mild acids and alkalies and water.
EPDM
- good for saturated steam, mild chemicals and water
Each
material listed regardless of manufacture will
indicate the "Binder" which makes cross referencing
equal materials a much easier task. You should
however pay attention to Tensile strength (for
pressure resistance)
Temperature
ratings, and Compression / Recovery ratings.
You
must also consider Size, Temperature, Application,
Media, Pressure, Speed (if dynamic) of your
specific application. If this is for a finished
gasket you will also want to consider bolt loads,
the size of bolts, the number of bolts, the bolt
material and the available torque.>>The
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