A Cork Sheet is a versatile and sustainable material crafted from the bark of the cork oak tree (Quercus suber). This natural product is harvested without harming the tree, making it an eco-friendly choice for a wide array of industrial and commercial applications. At Kaxite Seals, we specialize in providing high-grade cork sheets that meet rigorous standards for performance, durability, and environmental responsibility. The unique cellular structure of cork, composed of millions of air-filled, honeycomb-like cells, gives it exceptional properties including compressibility, resilience, and excellent thermal and acoustic insulation.
Kaxite Seals' cork sheets are engineered for superior performance. Here are the core benefits that set our product apart:
To ensure you select the perfect material for your project, we provide our cork sheets in a variety of specifications. Below are the standard parameters for our most popular grades.
| Grade Code | Density (kg/m³) | Temperature Range | Standard Thickness | Compression Set (%) | Primary Applications |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| KS-NAT | 180-220 | -40°C to 120°C | 1/32", 1/16", 1/8", 1/4", 1/2" | < 15 | General gasketing, vibration dampening, bulletin boards |
| KS-ASB (Cork & Rubber Blend) | 300-350 | -30°C to 100°C | 1/16", 1/8", 3/16", 1/4" | < 20 | Automotive gaskets, oil and fuel resistant seals |
| KS-NBR (Cork & Nitrile Blend) | 400-500 | -40°C to 150°C | 0.5mm to 6mm | < 18 | High-pressure fluid sealing, industrial machinery gaskets |
| KS-COMP (Composite Cork) | 500-600 | -50°C to 200°C | 1/8", 1/4", 3/8", 1/2" | < 10 | Extreme environment sealing, aerospace, heavy-duty engines |
| Property | Test Method | KS-NAT Grade | KS-NBR Grade |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | ASTM D3575 | 0.8 - 1.2 MPa | 2.5 - 4.0 MPa |
| Compression Recovery | ASTM F36 | > 85% | > 90% |
| Thermal Conductivity | ASTM C518 | 0.040 - 0.045 W/m·K | 0.050 - 0.055 W/m·K |
| Water Absorption (24h) | ASTM D471 | < 20% by volume | < 5% by volume |
| Flammability Rating | UL 94 | HB | HB |
The adaptability of cork sheet makes it indispensable across numerous sectors. Kaxite Seals products are trusted by engineers and designers worldwide for critical sealing and insulation tasks.
| Property | Test Method | KS-NAT Grade | KS-NBR Grade |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tensile Strength | ASTM D3575 | 0.8 - 1.2 MPa | 2.5 - 4.0 MPa |
| Compression Recovery | ASTM F36 | > 85% | > 90% |
| Thermal Conductivity | ASTM C518 | 0.040 - 0.045 W/m·K | 0.050 - 0.055 W/m·K |
| Water Absorption (24h) | ASTM D471 | < 20% by volume | < 5% by volume |
| Flammability Rating | UL 94 | HB | HB |
The adaptability of cork sheet makes it indispensable across numerous sectors. Kaxite Seals products are trusted by engineers and designers worldwide for critical sealing and insulation tasks.
Q: How is a cork sheet manufactured by Kaxite Seals?
A: Our manufacturing process begins with harvesting cork bark from sustainable forests in the Mediterranean region. The bark is then stabilized, ground, and graded by particle size. These granules are placed in molds and baked in ovens under controlled heat and pressure. The natural suberin in the cork binds the particles together, forming solid blocks which are then sliced into precise sheets. For composite sheets like KS-NBR, the cork granules are mixed with binding agents like nitrile rubber before molding and curing.
Q: What is the difference between natural cork sheet and composite cork sheets?
A: Natural cork sheet (like our KS-NAT grade) is made from 100% cork granules bound by the tree's natural resin, suberin. It offers excellent general-purpose sealing and insulation. Composite cork sheets, such as our KS-NBR or KS-ASB grades, combine cork with polymers like nitrile or SBR rubber. This enhances specific properties: oil and fuel resistance improves dramatically, tensile strength increases, and water absorption decreases, making them suitable for more demanding mechanical and chemical environments.
Q: Can cork sheets be used for outdoor applications?
A: Yes, cork sheets from Kaxite Seals are suitable for many outdoor applications due to their inherent resistance to moisture and rot. However, prolonged direct exposure to intense UV sunlight and extreme weather can cause gradual surface weathering. For permanent exterior use, we recommend our composite grades which have enhanced binders, or applying a protective sealant/varnish designed for cork. They are excellent for marine and construction applications where they are partially shielded.
Q: How do I select the correct thickness and density for my gasket application?
A: Selection depends on flange conditions and media. For flanges with slight irregularities or low bolt loads, a thicker (e.g., 1/8" or 1/4"), softer sheet (lower density like KS-NAT) is ideal as it compresses easily to fill gaps. For high-pressure systems with smooth, rigid flanges, a thinner, denser composite sheet (like KS-NBR at 1/16" or 0.5mm) provides the necessary resistance to extrusion. Always consider the fluid type—use composite blends for oils and fuels. Our technical team at Kaxite Seals can provide specific recommendations based on your parameters.
Q: How should cork sheet gaskets be installed and torqued?
A: For optimal performance, ensure both flange surfaces are clean, dry, and free of old gasket material. Cut the cork sheet to the exact shape, avoiding over-compression by not making it too thick. Apply a thin, even layer of a compatible gasket adhesive or sealant if needed, though many cork sheets are self-adhering. Install the gasket and gradually tighten bolts in a crisscross pattern to the manufacturer's specified torque value. Avoid over-torquing, as this can crush the cork's cells and reduce its recovery ability, leading to a premature seal failure.
Q: Are Kaxite Seals cork sheets environmentally friendly?
A>Absolutely. Sustainability is core to our mission at Kaxite Seals. Cork oak trees are not cut down; only the bark is harvested every 9-12 years, allowing the tree to regenerate. This process supports the local ecosystem and promotes carbon capture. Our production processes aim to minimize waste, and cork sheet is fully biodegradable and recyclable at the end of its long service life, especially our KS-NAT grade. Choosing cork is a positive environmental decision.
Q: Can cork sheets be custom die-cut or fabricated to specific shapes?
A: Yes. Kaxite Seals offers comprehensive fabrication services. We can precision die-cut, kiss-cut, strip-cut, or custom mold cork sheets into any complex shape, size, or dimension required for your application. We can also provide sheets with adhesive backings, laminated layers, or specific fabric reinforcements. Providing us with a CAD drawing or precise sample ensures we deliver components that fit perfectly, saving you time and material waste.
