Robust Design Methodology for Sealing Performance of Gaskets

Summary This is the first attempt toward the development of robust design methodology applicable to gaskets as there is no such precedent in the sealing industry. This was achieved by drastically transforming the traditional approach toward the solution to leaking problem. This paper deals with a new all-metal gasket that incorporates strategically located circumferential annular lips that form seal lines with the flanges. The gasket, due to its special shape makes use of the material’s spring effect, resulting in sealing performance. This approach is clearly distinct from the traditional one based on material development. By transforming a material development problem into one of mechanical design, we were able to optimize it using the Taguchi method. In FEM analysis, contact stress and deformation information was used to quantify leaking. Robust design methodology was developed and as a test case, a 25A sized industrial gasket was optimized using that methodology. Helium leak testing reveals considerable improvement in the sealing performance, hence verifying the applicability of the methodology developed.