We use gaskets to create and maintain a tight seal within particular applications to prevent leaks.
However, we can also use some types of gaskets to dampen and reduce noise and vibration levels.
These types of attenuated vibration gaskets can often be a prerequisite in applications where a vibration reduction is required to ensure the overall system’s performance.
For example, this may be required in HVAC systems, industrial machinery and equipment, telecommunication devices and equipment, computers, certain household appliances, automotive components, and more.
In this post, we look at spiral wound gaskets in more detail and, in particular, gasket materials to dampen vibration and the benefits derived from this.
Vibration Dampening Gaskets
A spiral wound gasket should be both resilient and compressible, with the spiral wound gasket manufacturing process ensuring that these gaskets act like a spring when compressed to create a secure seal between two surfaces, then springing back when compression is released.
Vibration-dampening gaskets work as the materials they are made up of absorb the energy produced by vibration and sound.
Custom Vibration Dampening Gaskets
Attenuating noise, vibration, and harshness within applications, custom vibration dampening gaskets, can do more than provide an effective seal.
These gaskets are manufactured using compression moulding, heating the material and mould to create the custom shape and size of the required gasket.
Gasket material (which we cover below) must be carefully selected, then placed into the custom design mould and compressed.
The gasket is then left to cure, which, when complete, the mould is opened, and you have the final product.
When various elastomers are added to the material of the gasket, they add to the mass, which helps absorb sound and vibration when they occur.
For effective dampening of sound and vibration, you must consider:
- Compressibility
- Resilience
- Material thickness
- Clamping force
- Gasket function
- Gasket size
- Spacing of the gap the gasket is intended to fill
- Chemical resistance
- UV/Ozone resistance
- Temperature ranges
- Adhesive requirements
- Outgassing.
Gasket materials to dampen vibration include:
Closed cell sponges – made up of materials such as EPDM, nitrile, neoprene, and silicone, closed cell sponge gaskets are gas-filled to attenuate noise and vibration. Closed cell gaskets offer great compression and expansion on the winding.
Nitrile sponge – this material is oil and fluid-resistant, has non-flammable properties, and has a high resistance to weathering. Nitrile sponges also act as a great barrier to condensation and liquid; however, nitrile rubbers require more force for certain levels of compression (for reference, softer elastomers will compress under relatively light loads).
Silicone rubber – a stable material that is suitable for a wide range of temperatures, silicone rubber is good if you require a seal that is resistant to weather and chemicals.
Silicone foam – providing a great deal and high level of resistance to extreme temperatures, silicone foam is also resistant to UV and ozone caused by weathering. There are also flame-resistant formulations available if required in this material.
Felt and Cork – two materials not as well known; however, both great for damping sound and vibration. Cork is often preferred due to its flexibility and compressive capabilities, making it a great seal.
Paronpolyurethene – a resilient material that also meets various industry application requirements.
Ensolite IR series – a versatile gasket and sealing solution that you will most commonly find within the industrial, military, and automotive sectors.
Note: To support the installation of these gaskets, and where gaskets need to stick to applications, you can use a pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA).
Gaskets for damping vibration and sound are used in the following ways:
- Equipment that uses anti-vibration pads
- HVAC systems
- Vents and pipes
- Pumps
- Presses
- Generators
- Automotive interior applications
- Internal components in phones, tablets, and computers.
Benefits of Damping Vibration Gaskets
- Helps to reduce unwanted noise and limits noise in specific environments
- Absorb shock and reduce vibration impact
- Offers durability
- Increases long-term stability
- Gaskets are available in a variety of material types
- It can positively affect people’s health and well-being, creating a better environment for those nearby
- Gaskets will extend the life and performance of machinery and equipment
- Internal parts are protected from interference, damage, and physical shock
- Helps to isolate vibrations efficiently and effectively
- Adhesives can be used to help ease installation.
Spiral Wound Gaskets
We know that gasket material selection can be a complex process as every application is different and will have set requirements.
We also understand that you require a gasket that can not only absorb sound and vibration from the application but can also provide the required tight seal to prevent leaks and gaps from occurring.
That’s why at SSP we’re pleased to be able to supply an extensive range of gasket types designed to meet your specifications and requirements precisely.
Working with businesses across numerous sectors, contact us at 01535 274 776 to find out more, or email your requirements to sales@specialistsealingproducts.co.uk, and an SSP team member will be in touch.
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