What Is a Flange Gasket / Flat Gasket?
A flange gasket, also called a flat gasket, is used for sealing flange connections in piping systems, process plants and industrial equipment. The purpose is to prevent leakage of liquids, gas, steam and chemicals in applications exposed to pressure and temperature.

Typical Materials
Flange gaskets are manufactured in different materials depending on the application, media and operating conditions. The most commonly used materials include:

• Fibre gasket sheets

• PTFE

• Graphite

• Rubber (NBR)

• Metal and metal-reinforced materials

• Oil gasket paper

Types of Flange Gaskets
There are several types of gaskets used for flange connections, including:

• Flat gaskets

• Rubber gaskets

• PTFE / plastic gaskets

• Spiral wound gaskets

• Kammprofile gaskets

• Metal gaskets

Choosing the correct flange gasket is essential for operational reliability, service life and tight sealing in process equipment and piping systems.

How Is a Flange Gasket / Flat Gasket Used?
Correct installation of flange gaskets is essential to achieve a safe and tight flange connection.
When installing a flange gasket, it is important to:

• Clean flange surfaces from dirt, rust and residue

• Ensure that the gasket and flange fit correctly together

• Use correct lubrication and tightening methods

• Tighten bolts evenly in a cross pattern

• Avoid overloading and uneven stress

• Inspect the connection for leakage after installation

Incorrect installation, insufficient lubrication or incorrect material selection can lead to leakage, reduced service life and operational problems.

Where Are Flange Gaskets / Flat Gaskets Used?
Flange gaskets are used in industrial plants with requirements for tight sealing, chemical resistance and temperature resistance.

Typical applications include:

• Oil and gas industry

• Chemical industry

• Food industry

• Energy and power plants

• Water and wastewater treatment plants

• Steam and process plants

• Pumps, valves and piping systems

Gaskets are used in applications involving high temperatures, high pressure and aggressive media.

When Are Different Gasket Materials Used?
The choice of gasket material depends on factors such as:

• Temperature

• Pressure

• Media

• Chemical exposure

• Flange type

• Approval requirements

PTFE gaskets are often used for aggressive chemicals, high chemical resistance and food-approved applications.

Graphite gaskets are typically used for high temperatures, steam and demanding industrial processes.

Fibre gaskets are widely used in industrial applications involving oil, water, gas and chemicals.

Why Is Correct Flange Gasket Selection Important?
Incorrect gasket selection can lead to:

• Leakage

• Operational downtime

• Reduced operational reliability

• Increased wear on process equipment

• Safety risks

Correct material selection and proper installation are therefore essential for long service life and safe operation in industrial plants.