Finite Element Method Stress Analysis of Kammprofile Gasket Defects and Evaluation of the Sealing Performance

The Kammprofile gasket is used in various sectors, such as oil and gas, to create a secure seal between flanges, enduring high temperature and pressure conditions. The integrity of the industrial installations of the gasket flange joints relies significantly on an effective sealing mechanism. Gasket failures predominantly contribute to VOC emissions, impacting air quality and potentially causing respiratory issues. Therefore, the Finite Element Method (FEM) analysis using static structural was developed to analyse the influence of dimension variations and defects, specifically on pitch, serration depth and thickness of the Kammprofile gasket that drive the leakage in the flange gasketed joints by finding the compressive strains, maximum and average contact stresses. Subsequently, the most significant dimension of the Kammprofile gasket that contributes to the highest estimation leak rate was identified. A mesh size of 0.75 mm was optimal for balancing computational efficiency and accuracy. The maximum contact stress is determined to be the main indicator of sealing effectiveness among compressive strain and average contact stress, as the trendline shows that deviations from ideal parameters increase localised stresses and risk permanent deformation of the gasket. In addition, thickness was identified as the most influential parameter based on evaluating different parameters affecting sealing performance. Eventually, this study suggests that adhering to ASME B16.20 standards guidelines for pitch, serration depth, and thickness of Kammprofile gasket can significantly improve gasket reliability and longevity.