Spiral wound gaskets (SWGs) play a crucial role in sealing applications, especially in industries aiming to meet low-emission compliance goals or reduce product losses to improve operational efficiency. Here’s a step-by-step guide to understanding SWGs and how they contribute to emission control efforts.
Step 1: Recognizing the Importance of Low-Emission (LE) Gaskets
As industries shift towards low-emission technologies, SWGs are gaining prominence in reducing fugitive emissions. While no consent decrees currently reference SWGs, their role in sealing solutions makes them a likely candidate for future regulations. Specific manufacturers are therefore proactively offering high-performance SWGs for low-emission applications.
Key Insight: Staying ahead of regulatory trends with LE gaskets can help mitigate legal risks and enhance sustainability efforts.
Step 2: Understanding Consent Decrees (CD) and Their Impact
Consent decrees are legally binding agreements between regulatory bodies (like the EPA) and organizations found in violation of laws or found noncompliant. These agreements outline corrective actions, deadlines, and penalties, ensuring compliance for industries looking to minimize emissions.
Key Insight: Knowledge of CDs prepares organizations for regulatory changes and helps align strategies with compliance goals.
Step 3: Exploring SWG Filler Material Selection
Filler material selection directly influences the performance of SWGs. Graphite fillers provide high thermal stability, while PTFE fillers offer excellent chemical resistance. Teadit’s 913M style gaskets leverage these materials to enhance sealing performance in LE applications.
Key Insight: The right filler material ensures better leak prevention—choose based on application-specific needs.
Step 4: The Role of Proper Gasket Assembly
Even high-quality gaskets can fail if not installed correctly. The ASME PCC-1 standard provides best practices for gasket installation but does not prescribe specific torque values, as these depend on factors like flange type, gasket material, and bolt properties. Expert guidance is essential for achieving proper sealing. Teadit offers hands-on training and guidance to ensure proper assembly for maximum performance.
Key Insight: Proper installation is critical—invest in training and follows best practices to achieve optimal sealing.
Step 5: Preparing for Future Regulations with SWGs
As emission standards tighten, SWGs are expected to play a significant role in compliance. Teadit’s 913M SWGs meet ASME B16.20 standard requirements and often exceed them, achieving leakage rates significantly lower than the allowable limits in its performance testing procedure.
Key Insight: Transitioning to LE gaskets now ensures long-term compliance and
6: Implementing Low-Emission Gaskets in Your Facility
To transition to low-emission gaskets, facilities must update procurement practices, phase out non-LE gaskets, and provide installation training. Some companies take an active approach by identifying and replacing non-LE gaskets during routine
Key Insight: A strategic transition to LE gaskets ensures regulatory readiness and enhances overall emission control efforts.
By following these six steps, industries can better understand SWGs, ensure compliance, and support sustainability goals. Are there any areas you’d like to explore further? Click here to read the full technical article.
