Fuzzy logic application in gasket selection and sealing performance

The paper presents the concept for and the implementation of a fuzzy logic approach in the selection of gaskets, for their sealing performance, based on system requirements. Gasket sealing performance is complex, owing to numerous parameters affecting the gasket sealability. A fuzzy decision support system (FDSS) and its application to the selection of sets of optimal parameters for the joint connections are described. The FDSS is based on the compositional rides of inference, which take into consideration the fact that many unknown parameters have tin influence off the gasket sealing performance. The paper outlines the complex nature of gaskets, justifying the need for a predictive system capable of dealing with vague information and providing precise results. It also presents a new methodology for proper gasket selection for a given set of operating conditions, e.g. applied load, gas pressure, and leakage rate.