Graphite Gasket with Eyelets (One-Piece)

At Kriloha Ltd., we believe that the most vulnerable part of any soft gasket is its exposed edge. In a standard graphite gasket, the internal diameter is constantly “attacked” by the pressure, temperature, and turbulence of the flowing media. Over time, this can lead to erosion or “wicking,” where the fluid seeps into the graphite structure. To eliminate this weakness, Kriloha Gaskets has engineered the One-Piece Eyelet Graphite Gasket. As the top supplier of rubber seals and gaskets, we provide this “armored” solution for facilities that demand the absolute maximum lifespan from their sealing components.

The “Eyelet” is a thin metallic U-shaped channel that is mechanically crimped onto the edges of a reinforced or pure expanded graphite sheet. At Kriloha, we utilize a Seamless Eyelet Forming process, ensuring there are no gaps or weak points where the process fluid can bypass the metal shield. This one-piece construction turns a standard sheet gasket into a high-performance composite seal. The eyelet serves two critical roles: it acts as a physical shield against erosion and functions as a structural “blowout” protector.

Beyond protection, the eyelet significantly improves the sealing physics of the joint. When the bolts are tightened, the metallic eyelet creates a concentrated “line-seal” at the bore of the pipe. This high-stress contact point ensures that even at low bolt loads, the gasket achieves an airtight seal. Because the graphite is encapsulated, it also prevents the phenomenon of “cold flow” at the edges, keeping the gasket exactly where it was installed.

As a premier provider, Kriloha Ltd. offers eyelets in a variety of materials, including 316L Stainless Steel, Monel, and Titanium, to match your specific piping metallurgy. We ensure that the eyelet is flush with the gasket surface to avoid creating a “step” that could interfere with flange alignment. By choosing a Kriloha Eyelet Gasket, you are opting for a “Fit and Forget” solution. It is the ultimate upgrade for maintenance teams looking to eliminate the frequent replacement of standard graphite gaskets in high-velocity or high-purity service.

Primary Use Cases

High-Velocity Steam Lines: Preventing the erosive force of superheated steam from degrading the internal edge of the gasket.
Pharmaceutical & Food Processing: Ensuring zero graphite particle migration into the product line while maintaining a high-temperature seal.
Aggressive Chemical Pipelines: Protecting the graphite core from chemical “wicking” or absorption by providing a metallic face to the media.
High-Pressure Heat Exchangers: Reliability for large-diameter joints where internal turbulence is constant.
Critical Valve Bonnets: Providing a rugged, blowout-proof seal for high-cycle industrial valves.

FAQs

What is the main benefit of adding an eyelet to a graphite gasket?

The eyelet protects the graphite from being eroded by the fluid flow and prevents graphite particles from contaminating the process. It also adds a significant layer of blowout protection.

Does the eyelet make the gasket harder to compress?

Slightly. Because you are compressing metal-on-metal at the edge, you may need to follow Kriloha’s recommended torque values to ensure both the eyelet and the graphite core are properly seated.

Can an eyelet be added to any graphite gasket?

Yes. Kriloha can add eyelets to pure graphite, foil-reinforced, or tanged-metal reinforced gaskets, depending on your pressure and handling requirements.

Are eyelets available for the Outer Diameter (OD) as well?

Yes. While ID eyelets are standard to protect against process media, we can provide “Double Eyelet” gaskets (ID and OD) to protect against atmospheric corrosion or to provide a definitive compression stop.

How do I ensure the eyelet material is compatible with my chemicals?

Kriloha typically uses 316L Stainless Steel for its broad chemical resistance. If you are handling highly aggressive acids (like Hydrofluoric or Hydrochloric), we can manufacture eyelets in Monel or Hastelloy.