One of the most frequent questions we get is “How do I know which gasket I need to order? I see at least 20 different types on your website.”
Identifying the brand and size of irrigation gaskets can be challenging, but with a systematic approach, you can identify the correct gasket. Here are some best practices for identifying the brand and measuring the size of gaskets:
1. Assessing the Brand:
- Look for Imprinted Logos or Codes: Most manufacturers imprint their brand name, logo, or part number directly onto the gasket or the accompanying irrigation component (pipes, fittings, valves). Inspect the gasket carefully for any markings.
- Identify the Gasket Brand: Common irrigation brands like Felton, Gheen, Surerain, or Rainway tend to use specific gasket types. Knowing the make of the irrigation system can help narrow down the brand of the gasket.
- Check for Consistency in Other Parts: If the gasket brand is not visible, check if any other parts (such as valves, pipes, or sprinklers) in your system show branding. Manufacturers often sell systems where most components are from the same brand.
2. Measuring Gasket Size:
Precise measurements are critical to identify the correct gasket size. Here’s how you can successfully measure a gasket:
- Outer Diameter (OD) and Inner Diameter (ID): Measure both the outer diameter (the distance from one edge to the opposite edge of the gasket) and the inner diameter (the diameter of the inner hole). Calipers provide the most accurate readings, but a ruler can also suffice.
- Tip: Make sure you are measuring at the widest point.
- Cross-Section Diameter: This is the thickness or width of the gasket’s material. It’s usually measured by cutting across the gasket and measuring the thickness of the material (e.g., for O-rings).
- Tip: A caliper can measure the width accurately, but you can also use a ruler and estimate.
3. Check the Gasket Shape and Material:
Different gaskets (O-rings, flat gaskets, or beveled seals) are made from various materials such as rubber, silicone, or plastic.
- O-Rings: Circular cross-sections, used in sprinkler systems.
- Flat Gaskets: Flat in shape, used in pipe fittings and filters.
- Beveled Gaskets: Tapered edges, often used in specialized valves.
Best practice: Send us a clear photo, especially next to a ruler or common object for scale, to help us visually assess the brand, size, and type of gasket.
By following these steps, you’ll be able to more accurately identify the gasket type and size, and it will help us identify the gasket you need, helping reduce errors.
Below is a 6″ Rainway gasket. If you look closely at the edge, you will see 6″ Rainway stamped into this gasket. Fleton gaskets have a similar marking.
Below is a 6″ Surerain gasket using a ruler to show the 6″ IO.
Here is an O-ring showing a 11″ OD and a depth of 1/4″
Below is a Flange gasket showing an OD of 11″ and an ID of 6 3./4″
Outside Diameter
Interior Diameter
If you are looking for a large quantity of gaskets, ask us to send you a single gasket to ensure it is the type and size you need before placing your order. Note you may be asked for a deposit to handle shipping and handling. Still have questions? Call us at 517-458-9741 or email us at info@triplekirrigation.com!
