Copper gaskets are primarily used because of their excellent thermal conductivity, meaning they effectively transfer heat away from a hot surface, preventing warping and stabilizing temperatures in high-heat applications like engine head gaskets, making them ideal for high-performance engines where heat management is crucial; additionally, copper’s inherent elasticity allows it to conform to slight surface irregularities and stretch under pressure before failing, providing a more reliable seal compared to other materials.
Innovative Machine & Supply have been supplying copper head gaskets to customers for over 20 years. We stock copper in thicknesses ranging from .040 to .090 with .060 being the most common used.
Key reasons to use copper gaskets:
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Superior heat transfer: Copper is one of the best conductors of heat, ensuring efficient heat dissipation from critical engine components like the cylinder head to the block.
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High-temperature resistance: Copper can withstand extreme temperatures without losing its sealing properties, making it suitable for high-performance engines with high combustion pressures.
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Elasticity and conformability: Copper has a good coefficient of elasticity, allowing it to stretch slightly to conform to minor surface imperfections, creating a better seal.
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Durability and strength: When properly designed, copper gaskets can be very durable and resist blowouts even under high stress conditions.