An aluminum gasket prevents leakage of industrial fluids such as compressed air, gas or liquids. Aluminum gaskets come in a variety of shapes and sizes.

Examples of industrial equipment that use aluminum gaskets are heat exchangers, compressors, condensers, pumps, valves and turbines. You can buy jacketed, double jacketed, corrugated and spiral wound aluminum gaskets.

Some of the important parameters you must consider before purchasing an aluminum gasket are:

1. Fluid passing through the system
2. Required dimensions of the aluminum gasket, such as thickness and external diameter
3. Suitability with mating parts: dimensions and material of flange and bolt

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Buy aluminum gaskets from reputable aluminum gasket manufacturers

Once you understand your requirements, evaluate standard industrial aluminum gaskets available in the market. Many metal gasket manufacturers offer aluminum gaskets suitable for common industrial equipment such as air compressors and heat exchangers.

I recommend: DV Manufacturing, a reputable manufacturer of vacuum systems, offers aluminum gaskets suitable for ultra high vacuum applications. Kurt J. Lesker Company is one of the aluminum gasket companies that also offer accessories. You can buy aluminum gaskets online at OGS Industries, a reputable manufacturer of metallic and non-metallic gaskets, including aluminum gaskets. Mercer Gasket & Shim is another metallic gaskets provider that supplies aluminum gaskets. C.G. Enterprises Automotive also offers gaskets of different sizes and material including aluminum gaskets.

Buy a specialty or customized aluminum gasket

If standard gaskets are not suitable for your application, opt for a customized aluminum gasket.

I recommend: Chavers Gasket provides custom designed die-cut and stamped aluminum gaskets suitable for applications in the aerospace, medical and food processing industries. You can buy jacketed aluminum gaskets at Sutton-Clark, a reputable manufacturer and distributor of custom gaskets. Precision Cutting Services can provide you with custom fabricated gaskets, including aluminum gaskets.

Purchase an aluminum gasket from aluminum gasket distributors or retailers

At retailers' websites, you can compare products from various aluminum gasket suppliers based on features and prices. You can ask for a discount on aluminum gaskets if you are placing a bulk order.

I recommend: EPM is an online retailer of various sealing components, including aluminum gaskets. All Seals also offers a list of standard and non-standard gaskets, including aluminum gaskets. You can also find aluminum gasket manufacturers in online directories such as MacRAE'S BLUE BOOK and Kellysearch.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  For extreme operating conditions such as high temperatures or pressures, consult an expert to design the aluminum gasket.
• •  While installing, do not over-compress the aluminum gasket, as this might cause rupturing of the gasket.