Gaskets are one of the most common types of mechanical seals on the planet. They are used to seal mating surfaces in engines, machines, windows and more. Gaskets, however, are manufactured in different ways. While some of them are manufactured with a lathe, others are manufactured with a die
What Is a Die-Cut Gasket?
A die-cut gasket is a type of gasket that’s made via a die. A die, of course, is a tool that’s designed to cut and form material into a specific shape. Manufacturers use a die to produce die-cut gaskets. That’s why they are known as “die-cut gaskets.”
Stamping dies are used to make die-cut gaskets. Stamping dies require the use of a press. A press is a machine that will force a stamping die onto a piece of material. Steel rule dies are also used to make die-cut gaskets. They are bent to the shape of a given gasket, after which they are used to create die-cut gaskets of that shape.
Regardless, all die-cut gaskets are made via a die. A die is simply a tool that cuts and forms material into a specific shape. Manufacturers use these specialized tools to create die-cut gaskets.
Tips on Choosing a Die-Cut Gasket
When shopping for a die-cut gasket, you’ll need to consider the material. Die-cut gaskets are available in different materials. Some of them are made of rubber, whereas others are made of fiber or cork. They support many different materials.
You should choose a die-cut gasket in the right shape and size. Die-cut gaskets are used for sealing applications. If a die-cut gasket is too big or too small, it may not fit. As a result, the mating surface will leak. You can prevent leaks by choosing a die-cut gasket in the right shape and size.
Other Types of Gaskets
While die-cut gaskets are popular, there are several other types of gaskets. Lathe-cut gaskets are made via a lathe. A mandrel is placed inside of a roll or tube of material. The lathe will turn the mandrel to which it’s connected. As the mandrel spins, the material will be cut and formed. Lathe-cut gaskets are made via a lathe, whereas die-cut gaskets are made via a die.
In addition to lathe-cut gaskets, there are vulcanized gaskets. Vulcanized gaskets are characterized by their vulcanized rubber construction. They consist of two parts that are bonded together with heat, adhesive and pressure.