Graphite Gaskets

Graphite gaskets are used for static sealing in industrial piping, valves, pumps, heat exchangers and processing equipment. Made from flexible graphite materials, they offer good thermal stability, compressibility and resistance to a wide range of industrial fluids.

Graphite gaskets are available in different constructions, from plain flexible graphite sheets to metal-reinforced designs. The appropriate construction depends on the flange arrangement, operating conditions and mechanical support required.

Types of Graphite Gaskets

Flexible Graphite Gaskets

Flexible graphite gaskets are manufactured from expanded graphite sheet material and can be cut into different shapes and dimensions.

Their compressibility allows them to conform to mating sealing surfaces under suitable gasket loading. They are commonly used in industrial flange connections, equipment covers and other static sealing applications.

Because plain graphite sheets have relatively low mechanical strength, additional support may be required for larger gaskets or more demanding service conditions.

Metal-Reinforced Graphite Gaskets

Metal-reinforced graphite gaskets combine flexible graphite with a metallic reinforcement layer, commonly stainless steel.

The reinforcement improves handling strength and dimensional stability while retaining the sealing characteristics of flexible graphite.

These gaskets are used in industrial piping, heat exchangers, valves and other equipment where additional mechanical support is needed.

Tanged Metal Insert Graphite Gaskets

Tanged graphite gaskets contain a thin metal insert with punched projections that mechanically grip the graphite layers.

This construction provides reinforcement without relying solely on adhesive bonding between the graphite and metal.

Tanged insert gaskets are commonly used in industrial flange sealing and equipment maintenance applications.

Graphite Gaskets with Metal Eyelets

Some graphite gaskets are manufactured with metal eyelets or inner-edge reinforcement to protect the gasket's inside diameter.

The metal eyelet can help reduce damage to the exposed graphite edge during handling and service. Its suitability depends on the gasket design, flange geometry and operating conditions.

Graphite Materials & Reinforcement Options

Flexible graphite is available in different grades, densities and sheet thicknesses.

Common reinforcement materials include stainless steel grades such as SS304 and SS316. The reinforcement may be a flat metal insert or a mechanically bonded tanged insert, depending on the gasket construction.

Material selection should take into account the operating medium, temperature, pressure, flange condition and any specific requirements for oxidation resistance or chemical compatibility.

Gasket Shapes & Configurations

Graphite gaskets can be supplied in several configurations:

• Full Face Gaskets: With bolt holes for suitable flat-face flange connections.

• Ring Type Gaskets: Annular gaskets for suitable raised-face flange connections.

• Flat Equipment Gaskets: Circular, rectangular, oval or irregular shapes for static sealing surfaces.

• Custom Cut Gaskets: Manufactured according to drawings, dimensions or existing samples.

Industrial Applications

Graphite gaskets are commonly used in:

• Industrial steam and thermal systems

• Heat exchangers and process equipment

• Pumps, valves and piping connections

• Petrochemical and chemical processing facilities

• Power generation and industrial utilities

• Equipment maintenance and gasket replacement

Material Selection & Operating Conditions

Graphite gaskets are often selected for applications involving elevated temperatures, but their suitability depends on the complete gasket construction and service environment.

Graphite can oxidize in hot, oxygen-containing environments, which may limit its long-term operating temperature in air. Performance in steam, inert atmospheres and other media can differ significantly.

For metal-reinforced gaskets, the reinforcement material and construction must also be considered. The gasket should be selected according to the actual joint design and operating requirements rather than temperature resistance alone.

Custom Gaskets & Bulk Supply

CORA SEALS supplies graphite gasket options for industrial distributors, maintenance contractors, equipment manufacturers and piping suppliers.

Standard flange patterns and custom-cut graphite gaskets can be reviewed according to customer drawings, samples and technical specifications.

Different graphite sheet grades, reinforcement structures and gasket dimensions can be sourced to meet replacement and project requirements.

Request a Quote

Please provide the required gasket type, graphite material, reinforcement structure, dimensions, thickness and quantity.

For flange gaskets, include the flange standard, nominal size and pressure class. For custom gaskets, drawings or samples are helpful. Operating medium, temperature and pressure information can also assist with material selection.