What are metal gaskets used for?
Amelia Brooks
Updated on March 25, 2026
What are metal gaskets used for?
Metallic Gaskets are used for sealing higher temperature and pressure applications, where non-asbestos materials will fail. Typical applications are for heat exchangers, compressors, condensers, pumps, and valves.
Are metal gaskets better?
The properties of metals allow higher-quality surface sealing of gaskets when compared to non-metallic gaskets. Since they can naturally resist extreme temperatures, pressure, and chemical exposure, metallic gaskets are now widely used for medium- and high-pressure applications.
Are there metal gaskets?
Metal Reinforced Gasket With metal core coated gaskets, both sides of the core are covered with a flexible, malleable sealant. There are reinforced metal seals in the pressure class up to 300. A strong metal core prevents pressure seals and a soft core ensures exceptional sealing.
How do metal gaskets work?
An elastomeric gasket is a component that seals against the release or inlet of both gases and liquids, creating a seal between two surfaces. They are ideal for filling deformities and connecting two surfaces together. In order to seal precisely, metal gaskets must most of the time be compressed at a higher stress.
Do metal gaskets need sealant?
No, you don’t need a sealant, unless it is explicitly mentioned in an eventual installation guide. Some people still use sealant with those metal gaskets (with mixed results). In those cases it is essential to only add an thin film of sealant and wipe away the excessive amount.
What are metal gaskets made of?
Metal Gasket Materials – The manufacturing of metal gaskets can be done using multiple materials including Stainless Steel, Copper, Cast Steel, Monel, Inconel, Brass, Bronze, 17-4, among many others. They also can be combined with various rubber products.
Which gasket is best?
FLUID TYPE
| Gasket Material | Max temperature (F) | Gasket Service Recommended |
|---|---|---|
| Vinyl | 20 to 160 | Water, oxidizing agents. Excellent weather/abrasion resistance |
| Viton | to 400 | Oil/Aromatic fuels, mineral, animal and vegetable oils, solvents and hydraulic fluid. |
Can metal gaskets be reused?
Metal and malleable material gaskets (like are found in GM intake gaskets), can be reused if there isn’t any apparent damage to them. Even some MLS (multi-layered steel) head gaskets can be reused under the same conditions.
Do you use silicone on metal gaskets?
Are metal gaskets reusable?