Primarily, seals and gaskets are fabricated and designed to prevent leaks. It is their ultimate job’s purpose, and this is vital.
Vital because when leaks occur, either liquid or gas, they can have serious and significant consequences for both the environment and operations.
Metallic gaskets can help to prevent damage to equipment, prevent the release of potentially toxic or flammable materials, and prevent downtime and financial loss.
Putting in place leak detection methods is therefore essential for industry, and in this post, we look at industrial leak detection and RTJ gaskets in more detail.
Ring-type joint gaskets
Gaskets are ultimately used to seal the gap between two mating surfaces. Providing a tight seal that will prevent leaks from occurring.
When a leak does occur, this will usually mean there is a gap in the gasket or the gases or liquid is escaping from around the gasket.
There are various sheet gaskets available, and the choice of material, shape, and style you choose will be dependent on the application it is intended for.
You also have the option with many gaskets to incorporate binding fillers to help fill the gap and create a tighter seal, further preventing leaks from occurring.
Gasket leak signs to spot
Industrial leaks can often be silent, making them difficult to detect. Due to the nature of where these leaks take place, they can carry with them severe consequences.
For example, industrial pipelines could be transporting oil or hazardous chemicals, which, if there is an unintentional release of the gases or liquids, could have devastating and incredibly costly consequences.
Some of the main causes of leaks in seals and gaskets include:
- Equipment failure
- Lack of maintenance
- Corrosion
- Human error
- Poor seal and gasket installation.
All of the causes mentioned above can result in costly repairs and major accidents.
Industrial leak detection services
It’s important when working on gasket leak detection to carry out regular visual inspections. These visual inspections are critical in providing you with a first opportunity to spot any signs of leaks.
In this instance, you should check all seal areas and all valves within the application. This is a low-cost seal crack detection method and should be carried out by a qualified professional with experience in the field.
Detect gasket leak methods
Ultrasonic detection – using ultrasonic sensors, this particular method allows professionals to detect potential leaks in pipelines and systems by listening for the sound of escaping gases or liquids. This method can help to detect leaks from a distance and can be used on various materials and composites.
Infrared imaging – also known as thermal imaging, this leak detection method helps to identify leaks by identifying and monitoring temperature changes. This is a quick and effective method, most suitable for checking large areas.
Gas detection – spotting and finding gas leaks often requires specialist machinery used by trained professionals in order to detect. These gases, methane and carbon monoxide, do not give off a smell, so it’s essential to have the right tools and equipment to detect them. Sensors are often put in place to act as early warning systems, alerting people to the dangerous exposure to potential gas leaks.
Pressure monitoring – it is critical to monitor any sudden drops in pressure on applications and systems, as this can be a key indicator that there is a leak in the system.
Dye testing – in some instances, it may be necessary to introduce a tracer dye into the system. Following the dye through the system, you will have to wait a set time until the leak is pinpointed. Dye testing is a good choice to detect leaks as it is not affected by background noise, and it works across long distances. However, this method is not suitable or effective in systems with high flow rates.
Specific gasket tests can include:
Standard test, which is the testing method for the sealability of gasket materials.
Compression test – carrying out air and pressure checks as well as backlight inspections.
Maintaining your seals and metallic gaskets
To get the most from seals and gaskets and ensure full compressibility at all times, it’s important to regularly check and maintain all seals.
To ensure a robust seal, you can also lubricate gaskets, use hydrophobic compounds, and replace the grade of gasket material to better suit the application and environment.
It is also recommended that you choose gasket material based on:
- Bolt loads
- Structure and rigidity of mating flanges
- Surface finishes
- Bolt spaces
- Surface waviness
- Pressure and temperature ranges.
Specialist Sealing Products
At SSP, we specialise in high-quality gaskets and seals manufactured in a range of materials, with fillers and compounds available to suit and provide a robust sealing solution to a wide range of applications.
Many leaks are caused by poorly-fitting gaskets, the wrong material type chosen, or a lack of maintenance around the seal and gasket.
At SSP, our team is on hand to answer your questions and provide you with the right and most appropriate sealing solution.
Speak to us today to find out more.
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