Custom Gasket Design Checklist:
What Your Drawing Should Include for Faster Quotes and Accurate Parts
If you're sourcing custom gaskets for your business, a clear, complete drawing is one of the most important tools needed for a quick, accurate quote.
At Timco, we work with businesses ranging from Fortune 500 companies to small enterprises with fewer than 20 people to help them invest in the right rubber and plastic parts for their applications – and that starts with your design.
This checklist will help ensure your drawing has all the information a custom gasket supplier needs to efficiently and effectively provide you with quotes for your parts.
Why Does Your Gasket Drawing Matter?
A complete gasket drawing isn't just helpful; it plays an essential role in helping your supplier provide ideas and solutions that address the specifications of your unique application.
Drawings are key because they can clearly and effectively set expectations for parts and enable a more fluid dialogue between you and your supplier. A general description of a part can only explain so much, while a drawing lays out specific STAMP criteria for your design (size, temperature, application, media, pressure).
“Having a drawing allows for a more collaborative and informed interaction that often results in a more positive outcome,” says Randy Dahlke, president of Timco. “Having a drawing in place allows us to ask more targeted questions and offer guidance tailored to the specific needs of your parts.
Removes Ambiguity
Drawings set clear visual expectations, whereas descriptions like “1/8” thick ring gasket with a center hole” leave too much to interpretation.
Drives Precision
Details like material, tolerances, and dimensions directly affect manufacturability and cost.
Saves Time
Complete drawings reduce quote turnaround time and limit back-and-forth emails.
Improves Communication
A clear drawing allows suppliers to ask better questions and ensure better performance.
Filters Fit
Not every supplier may be right for your parts. Drawings help identify the right opportunities more quickly for both parties.
What Your Custom Gasket Drawing Should Include
While every part is different, there are some key criteria that are either needed for an accurate gasket quote or are helpful details to share with your supplier. The following checklist breaks down the essential and recommended elements you should include in your drawing.
Must-Have Elements:
- 2D Views
- Include a basic drawing of the part, with different angles depending on the complexity of the part. These can include top, side, and sectional views (as needed) to represent geometry.
- All Relevant Dimensions
- Include units (inches or mm) and dimensions for OD, ID, hole size, spacing, etc.
- Dimensional Tolerances
- Use standard tolerances or specify critical ones (e.g., ±0.05") for key dimensions.
- Material Designation
- Indicate the base polymer (e.g., EPDM, Silicone) and whether it's dense or cellular material.
- Material Hardness
- Specify durometer (e.g., Shore A 60)
- Adhesive Callouts (if required)
- Type (e.g., PSA or HATS) and location of adhesive
Nice-to-Have Enhancements:
- ASTM Material Designations
- If applicable, include for more precise sourcing
- Performance Properties
- Temperature resistance, compression set, UV resistance, chemical exposure
- Application Environment
- Environmental factors such exposure to oil, sunlight, and other elements can help identify material compatibility issues
- Type of Flange
- ANSI or Non-Standard
- Flange Material
- Fragile, Stainless, Glass Lined, & Carbon Steel are common examples.
Best Practices for Sharing Your Gasket Drawing
Once your drawing is complete, it’s time to share it with a supplier. There are different ways that you can share your drawing with Timco so that we can give you a quote for custom gaskets. here’s how to send it our way:
Share Your Drawing Using an Accepted File Format:
- Upload via Quote Form:
- .DOC, .DOCX, .JPG, .JPEG, .PDF, .PNG, .ZIP files
- Send CAD files via Email:
- .DWG, .DXF, or .STP
What Happens Next:
Once we receive your drawing, our team will review it and:
- Reach out with any clarification questions
- Engage in a collaborative discussion to ensure best-fit solutions
- Provide a clear, informed quote for your part(s)
Ready to Get the Right Gasket, Fast?
At Timco, we’re dedicated to providing quality rubber and plastic parts and top-notch service and value with every interaction. Contact Timco Rubber at 1-800-969-6242 or request a quote for custom gaskets tailored to your unique application.
