Vulcanised fibre washers: what they are and their properties
Vulcanised fibre is a tough material known for its exceptional properties, making it an ideal choice for manufacturing washers.
Vulcanised fibre is produced from cellulose through a complex manufacturing process. The cellulose is treated with chemicals that break it down into pulp. The pulp is formed into sheets and subjected to high temperature and pressure in the presence of zinc chloride or sulphur. This process, known as vulcanisation, turns the cellulose sheets into vulcanised fibre, giving it strength and rigidity. The washers are then cut from these sheets.
Properties of vulcanised fibre washers
Mechanical properties
Vulcanised fibre washers have exceptional mechanical properties, which make them suitable for demanding applications. The material has high tensile strength, allowing fibre washers to withstand compressive forces and help prevent leaks. It also offers excellent impact resistance, ensuring a long and durable service life. In addition, vulcanised fibre washers are dimensionally stable, retaining their shape and structural integrity even under high pressures.
In short, from a mechanical point of view, fibre washers offer:
- High tensile strength.
- Excellent tear resistance.
- Resistance to vibration and impact.
Electrical properties.
As well as good mechanical performance, vulcanised fibre washers also have notable electrical properties. Their inherent electrical insulating properties make them an ideal choice for electrical applications such as insulating gaskets. Vulcanised fibre blocks the flow of electrical current, so fibre washers protect sensitive components from short circuits and electrical hazards, thanks to their low dielectric constant and dissipation factor. Their high arc resistance also makes these washers an excellent ally as electrical insulators.
Thermal properties.
- High thermal stability.
- Moderate resistance to heat and fire.
- Low thermal conductivity.
Uses of vulcanised fibre gaskets and washers in industrial machinery.
Vulcanised fibre washers for sealing applications
- Pipe flange gaskets.
- Valve cover gaskets.
- Pump gaskets.
- Compressor gaskets.
- Cylinder head gaskets.
Vulcanised fibre washers for insulation applications
- Electrical transformers.
- Switchgear assemblies.
- Motor housings.
- Control panels.
- Circuit breakers.
Vulcanised fibre washers for vibration and noise damping applications
- Mounting pads.
- Equipment bases.
- Shock absorbers.
Vulcanised fibre washers for thermal insulation applications
- Heat exchangers.
- Oven doors and seals.
- Furnace components.
- Boilers.
- Thermal expansion joints.
Benefits of vulcanised fibre gaskets and washers
- Reliability and durability.
- Long-lasting performance.
- Resistant to wear, tearing and ageing.
- Withstands harsh operating conditions.
- Compatible with a range of fluids and gases.
- Suitable for a wide temperature range.
- Can be custom-made for specific requirements.
- Cost-effective compared with alternative materials.
- Lower maintenance and replacement costs.
- Environmentally friendly.
- Made from renewable and recyclable materials
- Minimal environmental impact
- Does not release harmful substances
At Manufactures Cusell, we specialise in the custom manufacture of washers, gaskets, plates and parts in vulcanised fibre. We also manufacture vulcanised fibre washers certified for use with drinking water.
Send us your enquiries through our form or by email about any requirement your industry may have for vulcanised fibre washers or washers in any other material, and we will be happy to help.
