How are Gaskets Used in Automotive Engines?
Gaskets are mechanical seals designed to occupy the space between two or more mating surfaces so that they prevent air or water leakage. They are typically made of a flat material such as rubber, silicone, metal, cork, felt, neoprene, fiberglass, and many others. Some materials are favored over others for their resistance and durability, but that generally relies on the kind of system you are operating on. For this reason, we are covering different types of gaskets and their unique features, how gaskets are used in automotive engines, and what to consider when selecting a gasket for your application.
Gaskets are an integral part of nearly all automotive engines. From cars and trucks to vans and tractor-trailers, most automotive engines require gaskets. There are several types of gaskets used for an automotive engine, but the most common example is a head gasket. Head gaskets are typically made from steel, copper, carbon, fiberglass, or a composite material. A head gasket is a small, thin piece of metal that is wedged between the engine block and cylinder heads. Both of these elements have gaps that allow for the free flow of oil, coolant, and combustion gases. The head gasket serves as an air-tight seal where these two components meet and prevents these substances from leaking or escaping. For instance, if coolant or exhaust gases escape in an engine, it can cause it to overheat.
Other gaskets that are often found in automotive engines include a manifold gasket and a camshaft gasket. A manifold gasket, or intake gasket as it is sometimes called, is responsible for sealing the open space between the manifold and the cylinder head. Similar to the head gasket, coolant and air travel through these two components, so the manifold gasket prevents these substances from leaking. A camshaft gasket, on the other hand, is generally smaller than the other two types and is ring-shaped. These o-ring gaskets are designed to seal the camshaft or camshafts. When wedged between two objects, the ring expands outward until it contacts both sides of the gap, providing an air-tight seal.
Gaskets can be found in many industrial applications including food processing, plumbing, machinery, gas, medical, and more, so when it comes to selecting a gasket, there are a few properties to consider. As previously discussed, there are a variety of materials used to make gaskets. However, not all materials are ideal for every application. The gasket material should have incredible flexibility, low density, and high tensile strength. These factors are especially important because gaskets are designed to prevent air or liquid from escaping. As such, they should also have resistance to chemicals, corrosive substances, and internal pressure that could potentially deform a gasket. It is also important to consider that the material you select for your gasket is not too smooth because this could allow your gasket material to blow out under pressure. One preventative measure is to use a material with a 32 RMS finish, which is the measure of the texture of a surface. This kind of finish provides a slightly rougher surface.
If you are in need of automotive hardware, gaskets, bearings, fasteners, connector parts, aircraft parts, or any other specialized items, NSN Unlimited is the one-stop-shop purchasing solution with an expansive inventory from manufacturers we trust. NSN Unlimited is owned and operated by ASAP Semiconductor LLC, an AS9120B, ISO 9001:2015, and FAA AC 00-56B accredited distributor. Additionally, ASAP maintains a NO CHINA SOURCING promise on all items. Explore our online catalog at your leisure and we invite you to fill out an RFQ form. Once you have submitted the form with details about the parts or components you wish to acquire, we will give you a quote back for your comparisons. ASAP Semiconductor is a customer-oriented enterprise committed to providing our clients with a simplified procurement process at every stage of the fulfilment cycle. For a quick and competitive quote, email sales@nsnunlimited.com; we are available 24/7x365.
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