What is used to create a seal between two fixed surfaces in piping systems?

Using a gasket to create a seal between two fixed surfaces in piping systems is vital for ensuring that fluids do not leak. Gaskets are typically made from materials such as rubber, cork, or metal and are specifically designed to fill the space between two surfaces. This fills any imperfections or gaps, thus providing a tight seal under pressure and preventing the escape of liquids or gases.

Gaskets are commonly used in various piping applications because they can effectively handle the thermal expansion and contraction of the materials involved, as well as resist pressure changes and chemical exposure. They are crucial in connecting flanges or joining different sections of piping, as they adapt to the surface irregularities and create a complete seal.

While O-rings, sealants, and flanges are also components used in sealing applications, they serve different roles or are used in other specific contexts. O-rings are typically employed in dynamic sealing applications where there is movement, sealants provide a coating or fill to spaces not designed for compression seals, and flanges are mechanical components that connect sections of piping but do not themselves create a seal without the aid of gaskets or other sealing materials.