scope:

This classification system² provides a means for specifying or describing pertinent properties of commercial nonmetallic gasket materials. Materials composed of asbestos, cork, cellulose, and other organic or inorganic materials in combination with various binders or impregnants are included. Materials normally classified as rubber compounds are not included, since they are covered in Method D 2000. Gasket coatings are not covered, since details thereof are intended to be given on engineering drawings or in separate specifications.

Since all of the properties that contribute to gasket performance are not included, use of the classification system as a basis for selecting materials is limited.

Purpose

This classification is intended to encourage uniformity in reporting properties; to provide a common language for communications between suppliers and consumers; to guide engineers and designers in the test methods commonly used for commercially available materials; and to be versatile enough to cover new materials and test methods as they are introduced.

It is based on the principle that nonmetallic gasket materials should be described, insofar as is possible, in terms of specific physical and mechanical characteristics, and that an infinite number of such descriptions can be formulated by use of one or more standard statements based on standard tests. Thus, users of gasket materials can, by selecting different combinations of statements, specify different combinations of properties desired in various parts. Suppliers, likewise, can report properties available in their respective products.

² This new standard classification system replaces D 1170 - 62 T. For information purposes D 1170 - 62 T is reprinted as Appendix A2.