The Problem with GRE Gaskets and Steam

GPT has long experienced issues with Glass Reinforced Epoxy (GRE) based gaskets used in steam applications. The term, “steam,” used in the context of this article, is intended to be broad and can mean any variation where sub or superheated water is present as either the partial or main component makeup of the service media. While GPT does not recommend GRE based gaskets for steam applications of any variety, these style gaskets sometimes find their way into a service where steam is present. The consequences can be a costly replacement of the gasket just months after installation, at best or catastrophic failure of the gasket resulting in a system shutdown, at worst.