What are Topog-E gaskets used for?
Topog-E gaskets are molded rubber handhole and manhole gaskets used to seal inspection openings on steam boilers, hot water boilers, pressure vessels, water heaters, and air tanks. They are installed on the handhole plate — the removable cover that allows inspection and cleaning of the boiler interior — to prevent leakage at the flange joint. Topog-E Series 180 EPDM gaskets are rated for steam service up to 180 PSI and 380°F.
What is the difference between elliptical and obround boiler gaskets?
Elliptical gaskets have a standard oval shape and are the most common style for boiler handholes. Obround (OB) gaskets are rectangular with rounded ends and are used on boilers with obround-shaped handhole openings. Topog-E obround and elliptical gaskets in corresponding sizes are interchangeable due to the material's resilience — it is not necessary to stock separate gaskets for slight size variations.
How do I measure a boiler handhole gasket?
Topog-E gasket dimensions are listed as Width x Height x Flange Width, all in inches. The width and height are the inside dimensions of the gasket opening measured laying flat. The third dimension is the flange width — how much gasket material sits on the boiler handhole flange. To find your size: remove the old gasket, measure the inside width and height of the handhole opening, then measure the flange seat width. If you are unsure, call us at (901) 458-2000 with your boiler make and model.
Do Topog-E gaskets require adhesive or special tools to install?
No. Topog-E molded rubber gaskets require no adhesive, cement, or special tools. Simply install the gasket on the clean handhole flange and tighten the handhole plate nut — the gasket conforms to the flange surface and seals even on rough and pitted flanges. Removal is equally simple — the gasket peels away cleanly without scraping or chiseling.
What PSI and temperature are Topog-E boiler gaskets rated for?
Topog-E Series 180 EPDM molded rubber boiler gaskets are rated for steam pressure vessels up to 180 PSI (12 bar) and 380°F (193°C). They are suitable for steam and hot water boilers, pressure vessels, water heaters, demineralizers, and steam humidifiers within these ratings.
What if I can't find my gasket size in stock?
We stock 50+ Topog-E sizes, but if you cannot find your specific size, call us at (901) 458-2000 or contact us. We can help identify the correct size from your boiler's make and model, and can source additional sizes not currently shown in our online catalog.
