What are gaskets commonly made of?

Gaskets are crucial components used in various mechanical systems to provide a tight seal between two surfaces, preventing leaks of fluids or gases. The primary materials commonly used for gaskets include fiber, cork, rubber, and copper, which are selected based on their unique properties that suit different applications.

Fiber gaskets are often made from a mix of materials, providing good compressibility and resilience, which help them conform to uneven surfaces. Cork gaskets are lightweight and can effectively withstand compressive forces, making them suitable for a variety of sealing applications. Rubber gaskets are versatile and known for their excellent elasticity and resistance to a broad range of temperatures and chemicals. Copper is used for gaskets in high-temperature applications due to its excellent thermal conductivity and mechanical strength.

In contrast, options like steel and fiberglass might serve specific engineering purposes, but they do not possess the characteristics needed for the flexibility, compressibility, and sealing capability required in gasket applications. Plastic and aluminum, although useful in many contexts, generally do not provide the same level of sealing performance that traditional gasket materials do. Thus, the combination of fiber, cork, rubber, and copper is well-suited to a wide range of sealing needs.