Gasket Maintenance & Replacement Guide
A gasket is a single-use sealing element in most bolted joints. Selecting the right one, installing it correctly, and replacing it on schedule prevents leaks, blowouts, and downtime.
Replace, don't reuse
Fit a new gasket every time a joint is opened. A compressed gasket has already taken a set and won't reliably reseal, so reusing one is a common cause of repeat leaks.
Selecting the right gasket
Match the material to the service — temperature, pressure, and the media being sealed — and confirm the correct size and pressure rating for the flange (for example ASME B16.20 / B16.5 for many flanged joints). The wrong material or rating is a leak waiting to happen.
Assembly is half the job
Clean and inspect the flange faces, use the correct bolt torque applied in a proper cross-pattern sequence, and re-torque after the joint has seen its first thermal cycle where the manufacturer calls for it. Industry guidance such as ASME PCC-1 covers good bolted-joint assembly practice.
Signs of failure
- Weeping or visible leakage at the joint
- Extrusion or blowout of the gasket
- Hardening, cracking, or chemical attack of the material
Stay ahead of every replacement
TexTrack tracks every gasket you supply and reminds you and your customer before it's due. See maintenance management software for parts suppliers.
General guidance only. Always follow the gasket and flange manufacturer's specifications and torque values, and the applicable pressure-equipment standards for your jurisdiction.