Why FIP Liquid Gasketing Is Replacing Traditional Sealing Methods

Die-cut and molded gaskets have been the conventional sealing solution for many years, but they have several limitations that may make them unsuitable for certain applications. For example, traditional gaskets require manual assembly and are often labor-intensive to fabricate, often with costly dies or other tooling. They risk burdening inventory and offer limited customization for complex geometries or irregular surfaces. Variations in fit and compression can also lead to inconsistencies in EMI shielding and sealing. 

As a result of these potential drawbacks, you may want to use form-in-place (FIP) gaskets instead. This more recent industrial sealing advancement allows manufacturers to dispense the gasket material in liquid form and cure it in place. Here, we’ll explore the benefits of using FIP vs. traditional gaskets for various applications.

How FIP Overcomes These Challenges

Compared to traditional gasketing, FIP liquid gasketing benefits industrial applications in several key ways:

• Automated, precision application. One of the main benefits of FIP gaskets is their use of automated dispensing for application, which allows for more precision than traditional gasketing. Automation helps prevent human error while allowing for more repeatability and efficiency.
• Compatibility with various substrates and designs. Another advantage of FIP gaskets is that they conform to nearly any size and shape, regardless of complexity. You can also dispense them easily on nearly any substrate, including plastics, metals, and plated materials.
• Reduced assembly and labor requirements. Automated FIP gasket application also eliminates manual tasks, subsequently shortening the assembly process. As a result, operations benefit from reduced labor expenses and increased overall productivity.
• Simplified supply chains and inventory. FIP gasketing reduces inventory needs through sole reliance on dispensing systems and raw materials, keeping physical inventory and supply chains simpler and more efficient to manage.

Cost & Efficiency Comparisons

Working with FIP gaskets also comes with the following operational efficiency and cost-saving benefits compared to traditional gaskets.

Reduced Tooling and Setup Expenses

Unlike traditional gaskets, FIP gasketing doesn’t require custom-fabricated molds or dies that could otherwise add more tooling costs. Instead, FIP gaskets rely on programmable dispenser systems that eliminate the need for additional tooling and setup costs.

Enhanced Scalability and Efficiency

Because they rely on manual processes, traditional gasketing systems can decrease the efficiency of production through various bottlenecks along the assembly line. FIP gasketing, on the other hand, maintains efficiency through automation, keeping production lines moving. In addition, the automation makes FIP gasketing more scalable based on changing production needs.

Lower Cost of Ownership

The superior quality you can get with FIP gaskets helps reduce the need for repairs and replacements due to leakage and other issues. These gaskets offer a better fit, which means more long-term reliability and durability than their traditional counterparts. Ultimately, this lowers the total cost of ownership.

Learn More About the Future of Sealing Technology

As the sealing technology evolution progresses, automated FIP gasketing is emerging as one of the most innovative solutions in the industry. This comparison of FIP vs. traditional gaskets reveals numerous areas where FIP gaskets outperform traditional ones, including reduced manual labor, increased customizability, more scalability, and enhanced efficiency.

At H&S Manufacturing, we have the resources and expertise to help optimize your industrial sealing operations with custom capabilities. Our custom form-in-place gasket solutions serve the automotive, aerospace, telecommunications, military, medical, and many other industries. In addition to custom form-in-place gasket dispensing, we offer precision machining, sheet metal fabrication, laser cutting, custom box builds, secondary and finishing services, and more.

Request a quote today to discuss your specific project needs with our team of experts.