What are Aramid Gaskets?

Aramid gaskets (Non-asbestos) are those made from aramid, which is a type of synthetic fiber that is resistant to heat. This type of material is used in a variety of ways, including everything from simple flange gaskets to complicated applications. It is also used as a substitute for asbestos. Aramid fiber can be found in both sheet form and also in braided packing.

Here are the general characteristics of this material:

High abrasion resistance
High resistance to organic solvents
Can be Nonconductive in certain applications
Isn’t very flammable
Sustains very good integrity even at higher temperatures
Is sensitive to salts and acids (unless infused with other materials)
Is sensitive to UV rays
Tends to have problems with the buildup of static unless it has been finished

Aramid gaskets are not typically made entirely of aramid. They usually have other materials included in them. The best kind of aramid gaskets will vary from project to project, but here are some of the most common types:

PTFE yard reinforced with aramid corners – This type of gasket uses pure PTFE yarn but has been reinforced with aramid, which enables the user to take advantage of both the strength of aramid and the other properties of PTFE. This type of packing won’t contaminate anything that is passing through it and will stand up against a wide variety of chemicals, alkalis, and acids. It also is excellent at lubricating and works very well in reciprocating and rotary pumps, agitators, mixers, and reactors. If wear from abrasion is a real problem, then this type of packing will work perfectly.
Aramid yarn impregnated with PTFE – This gasket is essentially the opposite of the first one in that it is made with aramid yarn but has been treated with PTFE. This is one of the most durable packing materials possible, and it is able to stand up against both abrasive and granular applications. The most common use for this product is in cases where you are dealing with superheated steam, derivatives of petroleum, or slurries. It also works very well with liquefied gases and solvents. You will most often find this product in use at sewage plants and in factories within the chemical, petroleum, steel, and paper industries.
PTFE / graphite yarn with aramid corners – For almost anything that involves a lot of chemicals, this product is your best bet. The aramid corners make these gaskets very strong, and they are commonly found in the stock pumps at paper mills. If strength and lubrication are your priorities, then this gasket is for you.
Spun aramid yarn with PTFE – This product is slightly different than the regular aramid and PTFE yarn because the yarn has been spun and treated individually. However, the applications are similar to that of the regular aramid yarn. The main difference is the fact that the spinning of the aramid yarns keeps the toughness of the aramid but infuses a softness you won’t find with the other yarn.
EGK yarn with expanded PTFE-graphite and aramid core – When extrusion is a concern, this is probably the best type of gasket you can find. It has four times the extrusion resistance of other PTFE / graphite packing products. The aramid core makes this gasket extremely strong, and the PTFE / graphite makes it extremely resistant to chemicals and heat.

Aramid fiber sheeting is a great option in many gasket requirements.

Aramid gaskets are really the best choice when you are looking for an exceptionally strong gasket that also exhibits a number of other traits that are specific to your project. If you think you will be in need of this type of gasket, it definitely pays to ask an expert about which kind of gasket will be right for the project you need it for. Blaylock Gasket is a leading provider of aramid gaskets.

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