Gaskets fill the irregularities of the imperfect mating surfaces on the machine parts, usually from the sheet. For specific applications, such as high-pressure steam systems, gaskets used to contain asbestos. Asbestos is a very versatile
material. However, due to health and safety considerations, it is generally only used under special circumstances.
High-temperature applications have traditionally used asbestos treatment, but due to health and safety issues, asbestos became a banned substance in the 1990s. Now, non-asbestos gasket materials are preferred as much as possible. All
well-known manufacturers withdrew asbestos gasket products from general sales.
Today, asbestos can only be specified and supplied in the UK under special permit conditions, although asbestos is still frequently used in other parts of the world, so products in these areas should be carefully checked before being
used.
