Facts

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Quicks Facts:

   Commercial refrigeration gaskets are the flexible, elastic strips that form an airtight seal around refrigerator and freezer doors, separating the cool interior from the warmer external environment. This seal is crucial for maintaining consistent temperatures, ensuring food safety, and optimizing energy efficiency in various settings like restaurants, supermarkets, and industrial facilities. Here's an overview of commercial refrigeration gaskets:

1. Types of gaskets

• Magnetic: These gaskets use magnets embedded within the seal to create a tight closure when the door is shut. They are easy to install and replace.
• Dart mount: These gaskets have a protruding dart that fits into a groove in the door frame, providing a snug and durable seal. They can be more challenging to replace but are often found on older or custom units.
• Screw-in: Secured with screws, these gaskets offer a robust and long-lasting seal, particularly suitable for heavy-duty units with frequent door usage.
• Push-in/Snap-in: These gaskets simply push or snap into a channel or groove on the door, offering quick and easy installation without the need for tools.
• Compression: These gaskets create a seal by compressing when the door closes, providing an airtight barrier.
• Glass door gaskets: Specifically designed for use on glass display doors, these gaskets prioritize aesthetics while maintaining a proper seal. 

2. Gasket materialsCommon gasket materials include:

• Silicone: Known for its resistance to temperature extremes and flexibility in cold environments, making it ideal for freezers and chillers. It also resists degradation from ozone and UV light.
• Neoprene: Offers durability against wear and tear and provides excellent sealing properties. It is also resistant to various chemicals commonly found in commercial kitchens.
• Polyvinyl chloride (PVC): A cost-effective option, but with a narrower temperature range and poor resistance to citrus-based or chemical cleaners and hot oil.
• Thermoplastic Vulcanizate (TPV): A more expensive material with a wider temperature range and better resistance to cleaners. TPV brands like Santoprene™ are becoming increasingly popular for commercial refrigeration applications.
• Other materials: Commercial refrigeration gaskets can also be made from materials like SBR, Viton, Buna-N, and EPDM. 

3. Importance of quality gaskets

• Energy efficiency: Quality gaskets ensure an airtight seal, reducing the escape of cold air and the entry of warm air. This means the refrigeration system doesn't have to work as hard, leading to lower energy consumption and reduced utility bills. Studies have shown that even small leaks can increase energy use by up to 11%.
• Food safety: Maintaining consistent temperatures prevents food spoilage and bacterial growth, crucial for businesses in the food service industry.
• Extended equipment life: Reduced workload on the compressor and other components leads to longer equipment lifespan and fewer costly repairs.
• Regulatory compliance: Properly functioning gaskets ensure compliance with food safety and health codes. 

4. Maintenance and replacement

• Regular cleaning: Wipe down gaskets weekly with mild soap and warm water to remove dirt and debris.
• Inspection: Regularly check for cracks, tears, hardening, discoloration, or gaps that allow air leaks.
• Timely replacement: Replace damaged or worn-out gaskets promptly to maintain efficiency and prevent further issues. You can test the seal by closing the door on a dollar bill; if it pulls out easily, the gasket needs replacement. 

 Temperature regulating gaskets for stoves.

Temperature regulating gaskets, also known as high-temperature gaskets or seals, are used in stoves and ovens to maintain optimal heat and ensure safe and efficient operation. These gaskets create an airtight seal around the doors, glass panels, and other openings, preventing heat loss and regulating airflow to control the burning process. MaterialsTemperature regulating gaskets are made from materials specifically designed to withstand the extreme heat generated by stoves and ovens. Common materials include: 

• Fiberglass: Heat-resistant and flexible, commonly used for rope gaskets that create a seal around stove doors and glass panels.
• Graphite: Offers increased durability, flexibility, and resistance to sticking, often impregnated into fiberglass gaskets for enhanced performance.
• Silicone: Used in some gaskets and gasket cements due to its high-temperature resistance, according to Stockwell Elastomerics it can withstand temperatures up to 500°F (260°C) and even up to 600°F (333°C) intermittently.
• Ceramic Fiber: Used for very high-temperature applications, such as in boiler, furnace, and stove gasket paper that can be rated up to 2100°F. 

Importance of temperature regulating gaskets

• Maintains Optimal Temperature: By providing an airtight seal, gaskets prevent heat from escaping the stove or oven, allowing the unit to reach and maintain the desired temperature efficiently.
• Improves Efficiency: A proper seal ensures that the stove or oven burns fuel more efficiently, reducing fuel consumption and operating costs.
• Enhances Safety: Gaskets prevent the escape of smoke, carbon monoxide, and sparks, making the appliance safer to operate.
• Extends Appliance Lifespan: By regulating temperature and airflow, gaskets protect internal components from excessive heat and wear, prolonging the life of the stove or oven. 

Types of gaskets for stoves

• Rope Gaskets: Flexible fiberglass rope gaskets are used to seal around stove doors and glass panels.
• Flat Gaskets: Flat gaskets or tapes are used for sealing flat surfaces, including glass and door frames.
• Tadpole Gaskets: These gaskets have a core and a flexible "tail" and are used for sealing curved or irregular surfaces. 

Replacing stove gasketsIt's crucial to inspect your stove's gaskets regularly and replace them if you notice any signs of wear and tear, such as looseness, fraying, cracks, or thinning areas, or if smoke leaks occur. Replacing a worn-out gasket is a relatively simple maintenance task that can significantly improve your stove's efficiency, safety, and lifespan. Note: Always consult your stove's user manual for specific instructions on choosing the correct type and size of gasket for your model and ensure proper installation using appropriate high-temperature gasket cement or adhesive. We understand that downtime can be costly for your business. That's why we offer 24/7 emergency repair services for all types of commercial refrigeration equipment. Our team is always on call to get your equipment up and running as quickly as possible.

Regular maintenance is crucial to keeping your commercial refrigeration equipment working efficiently. We offer preventative maintenance plans to ensure your equipment is always in top condition, reducing the risk of breakdowns and costly repairs.

At Gasket Squad Portland, we pride ourselves on providing top-notch customer service. Our team is dedicated to ensuring your complete satisfaction with our services. We're always available to answer any questions and address any concerns you may have.