Expert: Mark Janus - 7/27/2009

Question
Hi,

I'm not sure how a gasket works. From the pictures on this site, I really don't see how it can prevent leakage of fluids.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gasket
A gasket is a mechanical seal that fills the space between two objects, generally to prevent leakage between the two objects while under compression.

Many thanks

Simon

Answer
Consider for example you've developed a pipeline to pump a fluid...  the pipeline must be
built in pieces yet you don't want the added expense of having to machine the ends of the pipe(s) to very very small tolerance...  instead you put a gasket (material) in between every two pipes you are bolting together....  the gasket is soft (pliable) enough to be squeezed in the places where the surfaces come together well, and "thick" enough to "fill" the gaps where they do not come together well....  thus the gap is closed and the fluid cannot leak out....  

Think of the alternative, no gasket...  everywhere the surfaces don't quit match up the fluid will have a path to escape (leak) and it will....

Thanks for the question,
mj