A manhole is an entryway to service vaults or shafts primarily used for testing, expansion, or servicing of public utility systems. Commonly, underground public utilities like electric lines, sewers, drainage systems, heating lines, gas lines, etc., use manholes. A manhole gasket is used to seal the manholes and offers additional benefits as well. A few applications of manhole gaskets include:
- Steam boilers
- Power plants
- Public services
- Water management
- Offshore industry
- Chemical plants
- Hot air systems
Gaskets are a primary part of every steam or boiler hot water system. They are used around manholes available for access and inspection. Manhole gaskets are used to prevent leakage in exhaust ducting and other parts where pipes are joined together for longer ways. Manhole gaskets are one of the most crucial parts in their respective applications as their failure can lead to serious consequences. The consequences can include the leakage of hot water, steam, or gas leaks that were put in place by the manhole gaskets. The aftermath of the destruction can cost lots of bucks and may hamper the infrastructure as well. To abide by the safety rules, the inspection managers inspect the boiler manhole gaskets at regular intervals and recommend replacing them each year.
Boiler Gasket Material
On the inner or heated side, the boiler gasketting is done using fibreglass rope or tape. These materials are designed to handle temperatures more than 1,000°F, preventing any leakage or further damage. Another material that can be effectively used at the fireside of the boiler is graphite foil, often used for sealing flanges.
On the outer or water side of the manhole gasket, a steam tolerant material is used. The material should also fulfil the requirements like:
- good tensile strength for resisting internal pressures,
- Resistance to corrosive acids
- Water treatment chemicals
To be brief, the waterside material of the manhole gasket should have:
- a wide temperature range,
- Decent compressibility, and
- Excellent steam resistance
How to select manhole gaskets?
While choosing the type of boiler manhole gasket, you must ensure to invest in the one that provides at least 12 months of trouble-free service. The gaskets should be chosen depending on their performance and the ease of installation and replacement. If you buy inexpensive gaskets whose installation cost is high, you will end up paying almost the same amount. Choose the finest quality boiler gaskets that fit comfortably and provide supreme coverage.
