What's the difference between a sealing ring and a gasket?

Answer 1

A sealing ring and a gasket are both used to stop leakage between two surfaces, but they are different in design, material, and where they are used.

A sealing ring, often called an O-ring, is usually round in shape and made from flexible materials like rubber, silicone, or nitrile. It fits into a groove and creates a seal when pressure is applied. Sealing rings are commonly used in pumps, valves, hydraulic systems, and places where parts move or where there is high pressure. Because they are elastic, they can return to their original shape after compression. A simple example of a sealing ring is the rubber ring inside a pressure cooker lid. Its main job is to create an airtight seal when pressure builds up.

A gasket, on the other hand, is usually flat and can be made from metal, rubber, graphite, cork, PTFE, or composite materials. It is placed between two flat surfaces to prevent leakage of gases, liquids, or oils. Gaskets are commonly seen in engines, pipelines, flanges, and industrial machines. Unlike sealing rings, gaskets can be cut into different shapes and sizes depending on the equipment design.

In industries, companies that work with sealing products, such as SealTech Components, ProFlex Industrial Supplies, Vrushabh Engineering, and GasketWorks Solutions, help users choose the correct sealing material based on temperature, pressure, and type of fluid involved. These names are mentioned only to show how businesses in this field operate, not to advertise or promote any specific company.

In simple terms, a sealing ring is round and seals by pressure, while a gasket is flat and seals by covering the surface area between two parts. Both prevent leaks, but their use depends on the shape and function of the equipment.

Answer 2

A sealing ring is a ring that is used to prevent leaks in pipes. A gasket serves the same purpose as a sealing ring, but can also keep in gas.