Heat exchangers are important components in power generation and petrochemical industries. They are also important in food processing besides pharmaceuticals. Heat Exchanger Gaskets play quite an indispensable role within many machines. They help to ensure safe operation along with being leak-free. Because they prevent leakage of fluids under high pressure as well as temperature conditions, they provide a tight seal between the mating surfaces of heat exchanger plates, tubes, or shells.
A Heat Exchanger Gasket is a specially designed sealing element for ensuring two fluids within the exchanger stay separate, even when thermal and pressure vary extremely. They must resist aggressive chemicals as well as cyclic load changes unlike ordinary gaskets in addition to high temperatures.
It ensures separation of fluids within a heat exchanger, maintaining pressure and preventing leakage even under thermal expansion or vibration.
The choice depends on operating conditions. Graphite and stainless steel are preferred for high temperature and pressure. Elastomers like EPDM and Viton are chosen for food and chemical processing.
Consider fluid type, operating temperature, pressure, chemical compatibility, and the design of the heat exchanger (plate vs shell & tube).
No. Once compressed, their sealing ability reduces. Always use a new gasket during maintenance to ensure reliability.
With proper material selection and installation, service life can range from 3–5 years or longer, depending on the application environment.