Eyelet (With Inner Ring)

When industrial systems face extreme thermal fluctuations and high-pressure environments, standard gaskets often fail, leading to costly downtime. The GRAFSEAL EYELET stands as a specialized solution, specifically engineered as a grafseal eyelet performance gasket. This component integrates a double-row perforated 316 Stainless Steel sheet with a reinforced, pure graphite structure and a robust stainless inner ring. Unlike traditional gaskets that rely on chemical adhesives, our manufacturing process uses high-pressure expansion to bond the pure graphite onto the perforated steel sheet. This ensures a seamless, monolithic structure that maintains integrity under the most punishing mechanical stresses.

Engineers often struggle with gaskets that harden or “creep” under load, eventually losing their sealing capability. The Eyelet (With Inner Ring) eliminates this risk. Because it does not utilize binders, there is no organic material to degrade or melt when temperatures spike. Whether you are managing a high-pressure steam line or a cryogenic liquid system, this eyelet provides a reliable barrier that remains stable across a massive temperature spectrum. We have seen these gaskets perform flawlessly in environments where even the highest grade of PTFE or standard graphite gaskets would simply disintegrably fail.

Unmatched Thermal Stability: From -240 °C to 1650 °C

Temperature extremes are the primary enemy of sealing integrity. The GRAFSEAL EYELET is designed to withstand a temperature range that covers almost every industrial scenario imaginable. From the deep cryogenic temperatures of -240 °C to the intense heat of 1650 °C, the steel sheet reinforced pure graphite structure remains chemically and physically stable. It does not melt, and it does not burn. This makes it an essential choice for metallurgical processes, glass manufacturing, and heavy-duty chemical refining where thermal cycling is frequent and unpredictable.

In many high-heat applications, gaskets tend to undergo carbonization or structural breakdown. However, the 316 Stainless Steel reinforcement within the eyelet provides a skeletal strength that prevents the graphite from migrating or thinning out. You can rely on this gasket to maintain its thickness and sealing force even when the flange temperature reaches levels that would turn other materials into ash. This stability is not just a feature; it is a necessity for preventing catastrophic leaks in high-temperature pressurized vessels.

Superior Pressure Resistance and Mechanical Strength

Pressure management is another critical metric for any sealing element. The Eyelet (With Inner Ring) is rated for a pressure resistance of up to 350 Bar. This high-pressure capability is achieved through the precise engineering of the grafseal eyelet performance gasket, where the inner ring provides the necessary compressive strength to resist blowout. The interaction between the expanded graphite and the perforated steel sheet creates a composite material that handles radial stress exceptionally well.

We often encounter situations where flange surfaces are not perfectly smooth—perhaps due to age, corrosion, or uneven machining. The unique properties of this gasket allow it to fill gaps even on uneven flange surfaces. Because the graphite is expanded onto the steel, it retains a degree of “memory” and conformability. It does not harden or become brittle over time, meaning it stays “active” and continues to seal the micro-imperfections on the flange face, significantly extending the service life of your equipment.

Advanced Manufacturing: The Power of Binderless Technology

The secret to the longevity of the GRAFSEAL EYELET lies in its construction. Most gaskets use binders or adhesives to hold the filler material to the reinforcement. Over time, these binders can degrade, causing the gasket to delaminate or leak. Our eyelet is formed by pressing expanded pure graphite onto a stainless perforated steel sheet without using any binders or adhesives. This binderless approach ensures that the chemical composition of the gasket remains pure and consistent throughout its entire lifecycle.

This manufacturing method also provides several operational advantages:

• Chemical Purity: No risk of contamination from adhesive degradation in sensitive chemical processes.
• Structural Integrity: The mechanical bond between the graphite and the 316 SS sheet is much stronger than any chemical bond.
• Ease of Maintenance: The gasket does not stick to the flange surface, allowing for easy removal and cleaning during routine maintenance cycles.
• Consistent Performance: The absence of binders means the thermal and pressure properties are uniform across the entire gasket surface.

Key Technical Specifications at a Glance

To help your engineering team make an informed decision, we have summarized the core technical attributes of the GRAFSEAL EYELET below. These specs represent the baseline performance you can expect in even the most demanding industrial settings.

Why Choose Steel Sheet Reinforced Pure Graphite?

When comparing standard gaskets to a steel sheet reinforced pure graphite eyelet, the difference in “reliability density” is clear. Standard gaskets are often “one-size-fits-all” solutions that work well in moderate conditions but fail spectacularly under stress. The Eyelet (With Inner Ring) is a specialized tool. It is designed for the “worst-case” scenarios that occur in heavy industry, such as petrochemical plants, power generation, and specialized chemical processing.

The integration of the inner ring is particularly important for preventing “cold flow” or creep. In high-pressure applications, graphite can sometimes be squeezed out from between the flanges. The stainless steel inner ring acts as a physical limit, containing the graphite and ensuring the pressure is distributed evenly across the sealing surface. This prevents the gasket from thinning out over time, which is the most common cause of gasket failure in high-pressure steam systems.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can this gasket be reused after a maintenance cycle?

While the gasket is designed for extreme durability and does not harden or break, we generally recommend a new gasket for every installation to ensure maximum safety. However, because it does not stick to the flange and is easy to clean, inspecting the integrity of the 3/16″ or custom-sized eyelet is straightforward.

Is the 316 Stainless Steel resistant to corrosion?

Yes, the use of 316 Stainless Steel for both the perforated sheet and the inner ring provides excellent resistance to a wide variety of corrosive industrial fluids and chemicals, making it suitable for harsh environments.

How does the “binderless” feature affect the sealing?

The binderless feature actually improves the seal. Since there is no adhesive to melt or chemically react with the process media, the graphite remains pure and maintains its ability to conform to the flange surface without any risk of chemical breakdown.

Contact TPM for Custom Sealing Solutions

Selecting the right sealing element is a decision that impacts your plant’s safety and profitability. If you are dealing with extreme temperatures, high pressures, or corrosive media, the GRAFSEAL EYELET is the professional choice. Our team at TPM specializes in providing high-performance sealing materials that go beyond standard industry offerings. We don’t just sell products; we provide engineered solutions for your most difficult sealing challenges.

Ready to upgrade your sealing technology? Contact us today to request a technical consultation or a formal quote for your specific requirements. Our experts are standing by to assist with your pump, lubrication, or sealing element needs.

Contact our specialists directly:
For Pumps: 0 533 278 16 40
For Lubrication Systems: 0 535 249 72 16
For Sealing Elements: 0 533 043 44 85
Fixed Line: 0 216 549 26 27