Under Pressure: Decoding Elastomeric Gasket Failures Across Industrial Applications

This paper presents a comprehensive technical analysis of elastomeric gasket failures across diverse industrial applications. Through systematic examination of failure mechanisms, material characterization, and environmental factors, we identify critical design parameters that influence gasket performance and longevity. Our investigation employs multiple analytical techniques including Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS), Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA), and mechanical testing to characterize material and determine root causes. The research reveals how material selection, installation procedures, torque specifications, and operating conditions contribute to performance of the sealing application. Key findings highlight the importance of proper chemical compatibility assessment, verification of elastomer type, uniform compression, and optimization of bolt load distribution. We demonstrate that seemingly unrelated system design variables can combine to influence gasket integrity, while installation practices often prove as critical as material selection in determining service life. The paper highlights the importance of following design recommendations addressing compression set, chemical compatibility verification, proper installation protocols, and maintenance strategies for gasket sealing application where reliable containment is critical.