Common Causes of Gasket Failure (and How to Prevent Them)
- info151944
- Aug 31
- 2 min read
Even the best gaskets can fail if they’re not used correctly. A gasket that loses its sealing ability can cause leaks, contamination, equipment damage, and expensive downtime. The good news? Most failures can be prevented with the right knowledge and preparation.
1. Incorrect Material Selection
Every environment has its own demands — temperature, pressure, and chemical exposure. Using the wrong material is one of the most common mistakes.
Example: Using EPDM in an oil system (it swells and fails).
✅ Prevention: Match gasket material to the application (temperature, media, and safety requirements).
2. Improper Installation
Even the best gasket won’t perform if it’s installed incorrectly. Misalignment, over-tightening, or under-tightening are leading causes of leaks.
✅ Prevention: Use proper torque guidelines and ensure flanges are clean and aligned before installation.
3. Wear & Degradation Over Time
Heat cycles, chemical exposure, and mechanical stress gradually wear gaskets down.
✅ Prevention: Implement regular inspection and replacement schedules, especially in high-stress systems.
4. Poor Storage & Handling
Storing gaskets in damp, hot, or direct sunlight conditions reduces their shelf life.
✅ Prevention: Store in a cool, dry place away from UV light, and always follow manufacturer guidelines.
5. Using Non-Certified Products
Unverified gaskets may look the same but lack quality, consistency, and traceability — leading to early failure.
✅ Prevention: Always source from certified, trusted suppliers.
Gasket failures aren’t just inconvenient — they’re costly and preventable. By choosing the right material, ensuring proper installation, and relying on certified suppliers, you can significantly extend gasket life and protect your operations.
Gaskonnect: Reliability You Can Trust
At Gaskonnect, we supply certified, high-quality gaskets backed with full documentation and transparent delivery. Our team helps you avoid costly failures by selecting the right gasket for your exact application.
📩 Need advice or samples? Let’s prevent gasket failures together.