For decades, industrial sealing and gasketing relied heavily on asbestos-based materials due to their heat resistance and durability. However, the severe health risks associated with asbestos fibers led to a global shift towards safer, high-performance alternatives. Today, Non-Asbestos Sheet materials represent the modern standard, offering comparable—and often superior—performance without the associated hazards. As a pioneer in advanced sealing technology, Kaxite Sealing has engineered a comprehensive range of premium Non-Asbestos Sheet products designed to meet the rigorous demands of contemporary industry. This guide delves into the technical specifications, applications, and advantages of our cutting-edge materials.
Non-Asbestos Sheet, also known as compressed Non-Asbestos fiber (CNAF) sheet, is a manufactured gasketing material created from a blend of organic and inorganic fibers, bound with elastomers and fillers. These sheets are compressed under high pressure and heat to form a dense, uniform sealing material. Key components typically include:
Our product line is categorized based on composition and primary application suitability. Below is a detailed breakdown of our standard Non-Asbestos Sheet grades.
| Grade Code | Primary Fiber Base | Binder Type | Color Code | General Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| KX-NA1000 | Aramid / Cellulose Blend | NBR | Blue-Green | General-purpose grade for water, steam, oils, and fuels. Excellent bolt load retention. |
| KX-NA2000 | Aramid / Mineral Fiber | SBR | Tan / Beige | High-temperature grade suitable for exhaust systems, hot oils, and mild chemicals. |
| KX-NA3000 | Glass Fiber / Aramid | NBR with Silicone | White / Grey | Acid and chemical resistant grade. Ideal for aggressive chemical environments. |
| KX-NA4000 | Carbon Fiber / Aramid | Fluoroelastomer (FKM) | Black | Premium grade for extreme temperatures, high pressure, and conductive applications. |
| Property | Test Method | KX-NA1000 | KX-NA2000 | KX-NA3000 | KX-NA4000 | Units |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Density | ASTM F1315 | 1.75 - 1.85 | 1.80 - 1.95 | 1.90 - 2.10 | 1.95 - 2.15 | g/cm³ |
| Tensile Strength (Machine Dir.) | ASTM F152 | ≥ 12.0 | ≥ 14.0 | ≥ 13.5 | ≥ 16.0 | MPa |
| Compressibility (at 35 MPa) | ASTM F36 | 7 - 12% | 6 - 10% | 5 - 9% | 4 - 8% | % |
| Recovery | ASTM F36 | ≥ 50% | ≥ 55% | ≥ 45% | ≥ 60% | % |
| Temperature Range | - | -50°C to +250°C | -30°C to +400°C | -40°C to +280°C | -50°C to +500°C (short peak) | °C |
| pH Range Resistance | - | 2 - 12 | 2 - 13 | 0 - 14 | 1 - 14 | - |
| Maximum Pressure | - | 15 | 20 | 18 | 25 | MPa |
Kaxite Sealing Non-Asbestos Sheet is utilized across countless industries as a versatile and reliable sealing solution.
Q: Are Non-Asbestos Sheet as durable and heat-resistant as traditional asbestos gaskets?
A: Yes, modern high-quality Non-Asbestos Sheet materials like those from Kaxite Sealing are engineered to meet or exceed the performance of traditional asbestos-based gaskets. Using advanced fibers like aramid and glass, they offer excellent tensile strength, creep resistance, and can withstand continuous operating temperatures up to 400°C (752°F), with some grades handling short-term peaks even higher. They are the direct, safer performance equivalent.
Q: How do I select the correct Non-Asbestos Sheet grade for my application?
A: Selection depends on four primary factors: the media (chemical compatibility), temperature range, pressure (flange load), and the flange condition/surface finish. For general water, steam, or oil service up to 250°C, our KX-NA1000 is an excellent choice. For higher temperatures (e.g., exhausts), choose KX-NA2000. For aggressive acids or alkalis, KX-NA3000 is recommended. For extreme temperature/pressure or conductive needs, specify KX-NA4000. Our technical team can assist with specific recommendations.
Q: Can Kaxite Non-Asbestos Sheet be used on all flange types and surfaces?
A: They are suitable for a wide range of flange types, including flat face, raised face, and male-female flanges. They perform best on flanges with a serrated or phonographic finish (125-250 µin Ra), which helps the material bite into the surface for an optimal seal. They are not typically recommended for smooth, polished flanges or for tongue-and-groove flanges where a different gasket style is standard. Always ensure the flange is clean, undamaged, and properly aligned.
Q: What is the shelf life of Non-Asbestos Sheet, and how should they be stored?
A: When stored correctly, Kaxite Sealing Non-Asbestos Sheet has a shelf life of 5 years from the date of manufacture. Sheets should be stored flat in a cool, dry, and dark environment away from direct sunlight, heat sources, ozone generators, and excessive humidity. Avoid bending or placing heavy objects on them to prevent permanent deformation. Keep them in their original packaging until use.
Q: Is special tooling required to fabricate gaskets from these sheets?
A: No, standard gasket fabrication tools work perfectly. Sheets can be easily cut with utility knives, scissors, or die-cut for simple shapes. For production runs, clicker dies or CNC cutting machines are used. The material is designed to be clean-cutting without fraying excessively. Always cut gaskets to the correct dimensions, ensuring the inside diameter is precise and the outside does not overhang into the bolt holes.
Q: How do I determine the correct torque value when installing a gasket made from Non-Asbestos Sheet?
A: Correct bolt torque is critical for an effective seal. Refer to the specific technical data sheet for the Kaxite grade you are using, as compressibility varies. Generally, a target compressive stress of 40-70 MPa on the gasket is recommended. Use standard torque calculation formulas that consider bolt size, grade, number, and the gasket's sealing factor (y and m values per ASME/EN standards). Always follow a star-pattern tightening sequence and perform a re-torque after the initial heat cycle if required by the application.
Q: Are these sheets suitable for food, pharmaceutical, or potable water applications?
A: Standard grades are not certified for direct food or pharmaceutical contact. However, Kaxite Sealing can supply specialized Non-Asbestos Sheet grades compounded with FDA-listed ingredients (e.g., specific elastomers and fillers) upon request. These can be designed to meet relevant standards like FDA CFR 21 or WRAS (UK Water Regulations) for potable water. Always specify your regulatory requirements when inquiring.
