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Frequently Asked Questions

We know that you have questions.  J&A Sales has compiled a list common questions we encounter on a daily basis.  We hope that this will help you in the decision making process.

What thickness of gasket should I use 1/8” or 1/16”?

As a rule of thumb, thinner is better.  The smaller the thickness, the less area the gasket is subjected to pressure.  This is true when using metal flanges that are in good condition.  For larger flanges and pitted flanges,  a thicker gasket is recommended to correct any minor defects or warping in the flange.  For plastic flanges, 1/8” Full Face is best with a soft gasket material.

How can I find the correct gasket material to use?

In order to specify a gasket, we need the Temp, Pressure and Media you are sealing.  Please visit the How do I size a gasket page of our website and fill in the blanks.  Please feel free to Fax or Email us the information and one of our Application Specialists will contact you.

What kind of gasket should I use for Chemicals?

First, you need to know the specific chemical you are sealing.  Please use our chemical compatibility guide or Manufacturers links on our resources page.  Secondly, please find out the pressure and temperature for the gasket application.  Finally, what type of flange are you using?  (Ring, Full Face, Metal or Plastic?)  Please click on our “Which gasket should I use?” button.

What is the difference between an Elliptical and an Obround Gasket. (They are often referred to as Manhole, Handhole gaskets).

An elliptical is egg shaped.  It does not have flat sides, it is always curving like an egg.
An Obround is shaped like a race track.  It has two flat sides and two 180 Degree turns.
For installation instructions please click here.

Do you have a minimum order size?

Yes, $10.00 per order.

What is the difference between a SW, RW and RWI Spiral Wound Gasket? (Using Garlock Nomenclature for this example).

The SW is a winding only gasket (No Inner and Outer Ring) used for tongue and groove, male-female and groove to flat flanges.  Click Here For an Example

The RW has an outer solid (Centering) ring in addition to the winding.  It is suitable for raised faced flanges (RF).  The centering ring centers the gasket between the bolts. Click Here For an Example

The RWI has a solid Inner ring in addition to the RW gasket.  The inner ring acts as a compression limiter and gives extra support to the winding in high pressure applications and where a vacuum is present.  Please click on the links below to learn more. Click Here For an Example

What is the difference between an Oval and an Octagonal ring joint gasket?

This refers to the cross sectional shape of the gasket.   If you were to cut gasket in half and look at the ends, one has an oval shape and one has flats resembling an octagon.

Flanges with flat bottom V-grooves will accept either Oval or Octagonal gaskets. The Oval type is the only gasket that will fit a bottom radius groove.

Where do I use a Ring or Full Face gasket?

Ring gaskets are used on raised face flanges.  The gasket is self centering between the bolts. Full Faced (FF) gaskets are used on flat faced flanges where the bolts go through the gasket.

Which gaskets are made of FDA approved ingredients?

For low pressure/temperature applications, White Buna, EPDM and Neoprene.

For higher pressure/temperature applications, PTFE (Virgin, Durlon 9000, Garlock Gylon and Klinger Top Chem).

Have a question you do not see on our list?

Just fill out the form below and we will get right back to you.

Need some help?

Contact the team at J&A Sales to get the right gasket, packing or mechanical seal that is perfectly suited for you and your project.  With fast and efficient service we are here to help.