Materials for industrial gaskets: what you need to know

Washers explains the different materials that are used during the production of washers and gaskets for the industrial distribution sectors

Italian manufacturing has always stood out for the quality of the materials and how they are processed in order to obtain elements which, although small in size, are essential for the functioning of large machinery in various industrial sectors.

This is also the case with Washers, an Italian manufacturer of industrial gaskets for over 30 years, based in Modena, northern Italy. The distribution industrial sectors for this activity are various: from ceramics to chemicals, from bolts to automotive, from industrial wheels production to hydraulics. Many years of experience has led this company to enrich the range of materials used to manufacture washers, o-rings and gaskets of all kinds.

Now, let’s divide the metallic materials from non-metallic materials: among the first category we cannot avoid to quote copper, brass, bronze and aluminum, the most common materials for the production of washers. In addition, given the increasing demand from an ever-expanding market, we can find carbon steel, stainless steel, inconel, titanium and finally the so-called duplex or super duplex.

The second category of materials used by Washers consists of non-metallic elements, for the most are plastic materials, but not only: PVC, PLT and nylon, followed by other less common ones such as PTFE, NBR or SBR, cork, asbestos-free materials, graphite and finally mylar.

Clearly, given the wide choice offered, it is necessary to select the most suitable material for the industrial sector, both in terms of physical, mechanical and chemical performance, and in terms of efficiency.

Generally, metal is one of the elements most adopted by companies, first of all for the good conduction of heat and electricity, but also for its considerable mechanical strength and efficient resistance to corrosive acids.

Since time, copper has been one of the most used materials in hydraulics: copper washers have a really important seal, and everyone knows that it is a very high conductivity material.

Its flexibility, resistance and sturdiness are guaranteed by the processes carried out by Washers' specialized technicians, thanks to the different treatments to which the small copper parts are subjected, such as annealing and tumbling.

For more information on the copper washers produced and packaged by Washers, consult the company's website: www.washers-italia.com