Rubber-steel seals

Rubber-steel gaskets are specialised gaskets made from a combination of steel and rubber. This construction combines the mechanical strength of steel with the flexibility and sealing effect of rubber.

Rubber-steel gaskets are used in applications with high requirements for pressure resistance, chemical resistance and temperature tolerance, for example in the automotive industry, the chemical industry and power generation.

For applications with a comparable elastomer base, the selection of rubber gaskets is also suitable if a design without a metallic carrier is the focus.

Properties

• Material: combination of steel (e.g. stainless steel or carbon steel) and elastomers such as NBR, EPDM or FKM (Viton)
• Thickness: various thicknesses available, matched to the respective application
• Pressure resistance: suitable for medium to high pressure requirements, depending on design and installation situation
• Temperature resistance: material-dependent, typical service range approx. -30 °C to +200 °C
• Chemical resistance: depending on the elastomer, suitable for many chemicals, oils and industrial media

Advantages

• Reliable sealing effect: steel carrier for dimensional stability, elastomer layer for secure sealing
• High mechanical stability: the steel core reduces deformation and loss of position
• Good adaptation to sealing surfaces: the rubber coating reliably compensates for unevenness
• Broad range of applications: suitable for numerous industrial applications
• Long service life: robust construction for permanent load

Applications

• Sealing in piping systems, pumps and valves
• Flange connections for sealing against liquids and gases
• Engines and gearboxes, e.g. for sealing oil and coolant circuits
• Use in hydraulic and pneumatic systems

Technical specifications

• Material combination: steel carrier (stainless steel or carbon steel) with elastomer layer made of NBR, EPDM or FKM
• Thickness: depending on requirement and area of application
• Pressure range: suitable for medium to high pressure applications
• Temperature range: approx. -30 °C to +200 °C, depending on elastomer
• Dimensions: standard and special sizes can be realised

Packaging and delivery

The rubber-steel gaskets are packed to be safe for transport in order to avoid damage during storage and shipping. Delivery is reliable and on schedule, matching maintenance and production workflows.

For applications without a metallic carrier, rubber gaskets are alternatively available.

Material selection and designs

The performance of rubber-steel gaskets depends largely on the right material combination. The steel carrier provides stability and even force distribution, while the elastomer is specifically matched to the respective medium and temperature range.

For oil- and fuel-containing media, NBR gaskets are often used. For applications with exposure to weather, water or steam, EPDM gaskets are suitable. For high temperatures or aggressive chemicals, FKM gaskets are preferably used.

The steel insert can be made of stainless steel or carbon steel, depending on the requirement. Stainless steel offers advantages in corrosive environments, while carbon steel is often used in dry or closed systems.

Selection criteria for use

When selecting a rubber-steel gasket, several technical parameters should be taken into account. These include the medium to be sealed, the temperature range, the pressure present and the condition of the sealing surfaces. Installation space and bolt force also play a central role in permanent function.

For applications with lower mechanical load or without a defined carrier geometry, rubber gaskets are alternatively available, which can be cut flexibly.

Custom-made items and cut pieces

Rubber-steel gaskets are available in many standard dimensions. In addition, individual shapes, diameters and thicknesses can be realised. Custom-made items allow precise adaptation to existing flanges, housings or special constructions.

Particularly for spare parts or special machines, a dimensionally accurate design offers advantages in assembly, sealing effect and service life.

Installation instructions

For reliable function of rubber-steel gaskets, professional installation is decisive. The sealing surfaces should be clean, flat and free from damage. Unevenness, burrs or contamination can impair the sealing effect.

When tightening the bolts, attention must be paid to even force distribution. Tightening in a crosswise pattern reduces stresses in the steel carrier and supports even pressing of the elastomer layer. The recommended tightening torque depends on the flange type, bolt size and gasket construction.

Quality and manufacturing

Rubber-steel gaskets are manufactured for industrial applications with high requirements. The bond between steel and elastomer is permanent, so that a stable unit is maintained even under changing loads.

Depending on the area of application, tested elastomers are used which fulfil defined properties with regard to temperature, pressure and media resistance. As a result, the gaskets are suitable both for series applications and for use in special machines.

Typical industries of use

Due to their combination of stability and flexibility, rubber-steel gaskets are used in many industrial sectors. These include, among others, mechanical and plant engineering, the automotive industry, the chemical and process industry as well as energy and utility technology.

In many of these areas, flat gaskets are also used in addition where no steel insert is required by the design.

Advice and selection

The selection of the right rubber-steel gasket is always application-related. In addition to dimensions and material, operating conditions such as pressure, temperature and medium also play a central role.

Where requirements are unclear or for special applications, technical consultation is recommended in order to align the material combination and design specifically to the case of use.

Frequently asked questions about rubber-steel gaskets

What are rubber-steel gaskets?

Rubber-steel gaskets are gaskets with a combination of steel and rubber. The steel ring provides dimensional stability and mechanical load capacity, while the rubber component performs the actual sealing.

Where are rubber-steel gaskets used?

They are used in applications with increased mechanical, thermal or pressure-related requirements, for example in mechanical engineering, in the automotive industry, in high-pressure systems as well as in the energy and process industry.

How are rubber-steel gaskets constructed?

The construction consists of a metallic carrier, usually in ring form, and an applied or inserted elastomer layer. This combination ensures a stable position of the gasket and reliable sealing of the contact surfaces.

What advantages do rubber-steel gaskets offer?

They combine high mechanical strength with an elastic sealing effect. As a result, they are suitable for applications with pressure load, vibrations or changing temperatures and offer permanently stable sealing.

How are rubber-steel gaskets installed?

The gaskets are inserted into the intended grooves or between flanges. By evenly tightening the bolted connections, the elastomer component is compressed and a tight connection is produced.

Which materials are used for rubber-steel gaskets?

The steel carrier is usually made of stainless steel or carbon steel. The elastomer component is adapted to the operating medium, frequently made of NBR, EPDM or FKM.

How are rubber-steel gaskets maintained?

A regular visual inspection for wear, damage or deformation is advisable. In addition, the sealing surfaces should be kept clean and attention paid to changes in operating conditions.

How long is the service life of rubber-steel gaskets?

The service life depends on pressure, temperature, medium and installation quality. With correctly designed applications, rubber-steel gaskets can be used reliably for several years.

Can rubber-steel gaskets be machined or adapted?

Subsequent machining is not recommended, as it can impair the sealing function. Instead, suitable dimensions or custom-made designs should be chosen.

How is the right size of a rubber-steel gasket determined?

The inner and outer diameters, the thickness and the geometry of the steel carrier are decisive. These must fit exactly to the groove or flange connection in order to ensure secure sealing.

What are typical causes of failure of rubber-steel gaskets?

Common causes are the wrong material selection, overpressure, excessively high temperatures, chemical exposure or improper installation.

How can the sealing effect be checked?

In practice, the function check is carried out by visual inspections for leaks, pressure tests or by monitoring the system during operation.

Are rubber-steel gaskets temperature-resistant?

Temperature resistance depends on the elastomer used. Depending on the material, service ranges from low temperatures to high temperature ranges can be realised.

How do rubber-steel gaskets differ from pure rubber gaskets?

Rubber-steel gaskets offer greater dimensional stability thanks to the metallic carrier. For applications without this requirement, rubber gaskets are alternatively suitable.