A Kammprofile gasket, also known as a Camprofile gasket or simply a Kamm gasket, is a type of high-performance, semi-metallic gasket used in industrial applications to create a reliable and tight seal between two flanged surfaces. Kammprofile gaskets are designed to address the shortcomings of traditional flat gaskets and are particularly well-suited for applications involving high temperatures, pressures, and varying operating conditions.

Key characteristics and features of Kammprofile gaskets include:

• Composite Structure: Kammprofile gaskets typically consist of a soft, compressible sealing core (often made of materials like flexible graphite or PTFE) and a serrated metal outer ring or “cam profile.” The metal profile is usually made of materials like stainless steel, carbon steel, or other alloys.
• Serrated Design: The metal cam profile has a serrated or wavy shape when viewed in cross-section, which resembles the teeth of a comb. This design allows the gasket to have multiple sealing points or sealing ridges along its circumference.
• Combination of Resilience and Strength: The soft core of the gasket provides resilience and conformability, allowing it to seal effectively even on irregular or imperfect flange surfaces. The metal profile, on the other hand, provides strength, rigidity, and protection to the sealing core.
• High-Temperature and Pressure Resistance: Kammprofile gaskets are well-suited for applications involving high temperatures and pressures, making them popular in the oil and gas, petrochemical, and chemical processing industries.
• Versatility: These gaskets can be used with a wide range of media, including various chemicals, hydrocarbons, steam, and gases.
• Reduced Gasket Stress: Kammprofile gaskets are designed to reduce the bolt load or compressive stress required to achieve a reliable seal, which can help extend the life of flange components and improve overall system reliability.
• Low Emissions: Some Kammprofile gaskets are designed to minimize fugitive emissions, making them suitable for environmentally sensitive applications.
• Kammprofile gaskets are commonly used in applications such as:
• Flanged Pipe Joints: They are used to seal flange connections in pipelines, including those in the oil and gas industry, chemical processing plants, and power generation facilities.
• Heat Exchangers: Kammprofile gaskets are employed in heat exchangers where the gasket must withstand high temperatures and thermal cycling.
• Pressure Vessels: These gaskets are used in sealing the flanges of pressure vessels that contain high-pressure fluids or gases.
• Pumps and Compressors: They can be found in the sealing arrangements of pumps and compressors where reliability is crucial.
• Refineries: Kammprofile gaskets are used extensively in refineries for sealing flange connections in various processing units.
• Shipbuilding and Marine Applications: They are used in shipbuilding for sealing flanges on piping systems and equipment.

Overall, Kammprofile gaskets offer a combination of the flexibility of soft gaskets and the strength of metallic gaskets, making them a versatile choice for demanding industrial sealing applications. Proper installation and torque control are essential to ensure their effectiveness.