Aluminum Gaskets

Gaskets are among the most widely used tools in the world. Gaskets are found in everything from high performance racecars to desktop computers and even toaster ovens. At Phoenix Specialty Manufacturing, we have been producing high-quality aluminum gaskets for over 100 years. They are an integral part of our business, because so many of our customers use them daily. From aerospace customers to agricultural experts, our gaskets find homes in a wide variety of locations. Between our state-of-the-art machines and expert inspection equipment, our aluminum gaskets are the very best available.

How Gaskets Are Used

In their most basic form, gaskets are used to create a seal between two objects in a mechanical assembly. The seal is designed to prevent leakage in a system (the leak could be oil, water, gas, fuel, or any other product) that is usually under pressure. There is a difference between a washer and a gasket, and because of that the manufacturing process is different for each item.

Gaskets must be able to cope with a wide range of pressures and situations. From the high temperatures and pressures found in a racecar’s engine to the extreme demands of one of NASA’s solid rocket boosters, gaskets allow today’s advanced technology to work as it should.

In order for a gasket to function properly, there must be enough force to seat the gasket. This means significant pressure between the two objects the gasket is joining must be present at all times. This can be achieved through screws, fasteners, or as a direct result from pressure within the system. Once proper force is applied, the gasket will create a barrier that cannot be broken or penetrated except after frequent use, corrosion, or damage.

Gaskets can be made of a variety of materials and sizes. Here at Phoenix Specialty Manufacturing, we are equipped to produce custom orders of almost any size or shape. And while we specialize in aluminum gaskets, we have more than 300 materials for you to choose from to meet your specific needs.

Why Aluminum?

Aluminum is one of the most widely used metals in the world because of its unique properties. To begin with, it is fairly ductile, which means it can be formed into intricate shapes without breaking or weakening. Aluminum is incredibly durable and can withstand tremendous pressures in the right forms. Aluminum is perfect for gasket applications because it is able to withstand corrosion better than most other metals due to passivation: a process which spontaneously covers the metal in a thin film to protect it from chemical processes.

Aluminum, despite its great strength, is also very light. Aluminum usually weighs one third as much as other metals. Its low weight has some unseen benefits including reduced cost for shipping and transporting.

Aluminum as a Gasket

Aluminum is used daily in a variety of ways. You probably have aluminum foil in your kitchen cupboard that you use to cook meals or store leftovers in the fridge. The metal is also used in doorknobs, windows, cookware, utensils, appliances, and anything else you interact with every day. Your automobile is likely made of a large quantity of aluminum—this is true especially with newer vehicles which are using aluminum for chassis and frames as opposed to heavier steel.

As a gasket, aluminum is perfect for applications where corrosion would otherwise destroy another material. It also requires very little maintenance. If you are looking for a durable gasket, aluminum can reduce maintenance and repair costs dramatically.

Cost and Environmental Benefits of Our Gaskets

If you are looking for a great product that is both environmentally friendly and inexpensive to own and use, aluminum is the answer. Aluminum is 100% recyclable without any loss in quality or properties. Because of that, aluminum is cheaper to produce and work with. We pass those cost savings directly to you when you need an aluminum gasket.

Your Custom Order

At Phoenix Specialty Manufacturing, we know that no two projects will be alike. We are able to produce custom orders quickly, inexpensively, and professionally. If quality, cost, and speed are important, our 100 years of experience mean the best results for you.