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A new computerized method using a thin, flexible sensor to measure stress distribution during loading and unloading of gaskets is disclosed. Stress measurement is achieved by a change in the sensor's electrical resistance as a function of load. Each sensor has many electrical pressure responsive contact points that give a map of stress. The unloading of a gasket due to hydrostatic end forces, thermal motions, and external loads can be observed and measured without modifying the flange environment. Use of this new technology permits better and faster gasket and flange design optimization. Monitoring of gasket stress during unit operation is also possible in some cases. The system uses a personal computer operating specially developed graphics software. It provides visual two and three dimensional dynamic stress distribution representations as well as total compressive force, on the sensor, in real time.

Advances in instrumentation, equipment, and techniques now allow a more in-depth analysis of cylinder head motions during internal combustion engine operation. Extensive measurements of these motions were taken on a specific bimetal engine. These measurements were taken during both actual and simulated engine operations. Capacitance probes and eddy current sensors were used to measure large scale motion. The eddy current sensors were also used to measure small scale or micro motion. The results of these measurements are discussed.

THERE ARE A VARIETY of combustion seal designs used throughout the world for sealing the combustion gases of internal combustion engines. This paper describes a number of the designs and discusses the sealing theory inherent in them. Static and dynamic physical properties as related to sealing performance are discussed.

Many of the gaskets used in modern performance engines need to incorporate different design configurations than their counterparts which are used to seal similar engines installed in passenger cars. In this paper some of these different configurations are identified.

The cylinder head gasketing of today's internal combustion engines is highly complex and becoming even more so as the engines are being made lighter while developing higher outputs. Delicate stress distribution balancing between the combustion and liquid sealing components is required. Rigorous testing, both static and dynamic, is required to insure long term, high performance sealing. Specialized test equipment and instrumentation is utilized during this testing. This paper presents some of the techniques used in the design of cylinder head gaskets. It also depicts some of the specific tests that are conducted and test results that are required before the gaskets are released to production.

In recent years, there have been significant innovations and improvements made in the field of automotive gasketing. They have occurred in both the mechanical and chemical gasketing field. This paper depicts some of these innovations and improvements and describes how they have affected the gasketing of automotive joints. Improvements in mechanical gaskets such as unbroken metal core reinforcement of gasket materials, new surface coatings for seal and abrasion resistance, and use of printed sealing beads are discussed. The sealing theory of chemical gasketing and some of the latest developments in this field are included. Factors to be considered in the selection of mechanical or chemical gaskets are enumerated.

Gaskets for the internal combustion engine are highly engineered and rigorously tested products. Their degree of sophistication has largely followed the degree of sophistication inherent in the engine. This paper presents a chronological history of the cylinder head gasket as it changed relative to engine changes. Depicted is the general theory of bolted joint sealing as related to head gaskets. The remaining engine gaskets are discussed in regard to their basic construction and material content. An introduction of the chemical gaskets used in internal combustion engines is also included.