ASTM F868-17

Standard Classification for Laminated Composite Gasket Materials

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 This classification is intended to encourage uniformity in reporting properties; to provide a common language for communications between producers and users; to guide engineers and designers in the use, construction, and properties of commercially available materials; and to be versatile enough to cover new materials and test methods as they are introduced.
SCOPE
1.1 This classification covers a means for specifying or describing pertinent properties of commercial laminate composite gasket materials (LCGM). These structures are composed of two or more chemically different layers of material. These materials may be organic or inorganic, or combinations with various binders or impregnants. Gasket coatings are not covered since details thereof are intended to be given on engineering drawings, or as separate specifications. Commercial materials designated as enveloped gaskets are excluded from this classification; they are covered in Practice F336. This classification system does not cover multilayer steel (MLS) gaskets currently used for some automotive exhaust and head gaskets. MLS gaskets are classified under Classification F2325.  
1.2 Since all of the properties that contribute to gasket performance are not included, use of this classification as a basis for selecting LCGM is limited.  
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.  
1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.  
1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 30-Apr-2017
• ICS: 21.140 - Seals, glands
• Technical Committee: F03 - Gaskets
• Drafting Committee: F03.30 - Classification

Relations

• Replaces: ASTM F868-02(2009) - Standard Classification for Laminated Composite Gasket Materials
• Effective Date: 01-May-2017
• Refers: ASTM A109/A109M-24 - Standard Specification for Steel, Strip, Carbon (0.25 Maximum Percent), Cold-Rolled
• Effective Date: 01-Mar-2024
• Refers: ASTM F433-02(2020) - Standard Practice for Evaluating Thermal Conductivity of Gasket Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2020
• Refers: ASTM F146-12(2019)e1 - Standard Test Methods for Fluid Resistance of Gasket Materials
• Effective Date: 01-May-2019
• Refers: ASTM A109/A109M-16(2018) - Standard Specification for Steel, Strip, Carbon (0.25 Maximum Percent), Cold-Rolled
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2018
• Refers: ASTM A109/A109M-16 - Standard Specification for Steel, Strip, Carbon (0.25 Maximum Percent), Cold-Rolled
• Effective Date: 01-Sep-2016
• Refers: ASTM A109/A109M-15 - Standard Specification for Steel, Strip, Carbon (0.25 Maximum Percent), Cold-Rolled
• Effective Date: 01-Nov-2015
• Refers: ASTM F433-02(2014)e1 - Standard Practice for Evaluating Thermal Conductivity of Gasket Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2014
• Refers: ASTM F2325-14 - Standard Classification for Multi-Layer Steel (MLS) and Other Metal Layer Gaskets for Transportation Applications
• Effective Date: 01-Jul-2014
• Refers: ASTM A109/A109M-14 - Standard Specification for Steel, Strip, Carbon (0.25 Maximum Percent), Cold-Rolled
• Effective Date: 01-May-2014
• Refers: ASTM A109/A109M-13 - Standard Specification for Steel, Strip, Carbon (0.25 Maximum Percent), Cold-Rolled
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2013
• Refers: ASTM F146-12 - Standard Test Methods for Fluid Resistance of Gasket Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Aug-2012
• Refers: ASTM F104-11 - Standard Classification System for Nonmetallic Gasket Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Apr-2011
• Refers: ASTM F2325-03(2009) - Standard Classification for Multi-Layer Steel (MLS) and Other Metal Layer Gaskets for Transportation Applications
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2009
• Refers: ASTM F104-03(2009) - Standard Classification System for Nonmetallic Gasket Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2009

Overview

ASTM F868-17 - Standard Classification for Laminated Composite Gasket Materials establishes a systematic classification for commercial laminated composite gasket materials (LCGM). These gasket materials consist of two or more chemically distinct layers-organic, inorganic, or composite-bonded together, often with binders or impregnants. The standard aids in specifying, describing, and reporting pertinent properties of these materials, promoting uniform language and transparent communication between producers and users.

This classification enables engineers, designers, and procurement specialists to make informed decisions regarding the selection and application of laminated gaskets, though it recognizes that not all performance-related properties are included in this standard.

Key Topics

• Scope & Applicability:

  • Covers all commercially available LCGM except enveloped gaskets (ASTM F336) and multilayer steel (MLS) gaskets (ASTM F2325).
  • Excludes materials with specific coatings, which must be referenced in separate standards or engineering documentation.
  • Uses SI units as the primary measurement system.

• Classification Criteria:

  • Materials are identified by their use, composition, combining method, and defined physical/mechanical properties.
  • A systematic call-out system using letters and numbers specifies key characteristics, ensuring traceability and clarity for each product type.

• Uniform Reporting & Communication:

  • Encourages consistency in how properties and specifications are documented and shared across industries.
  • Provides a standardized vocabulary and notation for use in technical drawings, orders, and discussions.

• Physical & Mechanical Properties:

  • Properties addressed include compressibility, sealability, creep relaxation, thermal conductivity, oil and fuel resistance, crush-extrusion resistance, and laminated bond integrity.
  • Supplementary properties can be denoted through a suffix system per Table 2 in the standard.

• Sampling & Testing:

  • Recommends specific protocols for sampling and test specimen preparation, ensuring results are representative and repeatable.

• Conditioning:

  • Sets forth standard pre-test conditioning to control environmental influences, facilitating reliable property assessment.

Applications

Laminated composite gasket materials classified under ASTM F868-17 are used in a range of industrial and commercial sealing applications. Typical uses include:

• Sealing Flanges and Joints:
  LCGMs provide effective sealing for joints in piping, equipment, and machinery where layered barrier properties and versatility are needed.
• Chemical & Petrochemical Processing:
  Suited for applications where resistance to aggressive fluids, temperature extremes, and pressures is critical.
• Automotive and Transportation:
  While MLS gaskets are excluded, other non-MLS laminated gaskets in engines, exhausts, and auxiliary systems are covered.
• HVAC and Utility Service:
  Used in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems to provide durable, reliable sealing under varying environmental conditions.
• General Industrial Applications:
  Applied wherever engineered gaskets are required to isolate, seal, or dampen components exposed to fluids, gases, or thermal cycling.

Related Standards

ASTM F868-17 operates alongside several key ASTM and industry standards for gasket classification, testing, and manufacturing:

• ASTM F104 - Classification System for Nonmetallic Gasket Materials:
  Provides a broader framework for nonmetallic gaskets, complementing F868’s focus on layered composites.

• ASTM F336 - Practice for Nonmetallic Enveloped Gaskets:
  Covers materials and practices specific to enveloped gaskets, not covered by this classification.

• ASTM F2325 - Classification for Multi-Layer Steel (MLS) Gaskets:
  Specifies requirements for steel-layered gaskets, including those used in high-performance automotive applications.

• ASTM F146 & F1276 - Test Methods for Gasket Materials:
  Define procedures for evaluating fluid resistance and creep relaxation.

• ASTM F433 - Practice for Evaluating Thermal Conductivity of Gasket Materials:
  Provides methods for assessing one of the critical performance parameters defined in F868.

For more information or to access the latest official version of ASTM F868-17, consult ASTM International or recognized engineering standards repositories.

Keywords: ASTM F868-17, laminated composite gasket materials, gasket classification, gasket standards, ASTM gaskets, LCGM, sealing materials, gasket testing.

Standards Content (Sample)

This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation:F868 −17
Standard Classification for
Laminated Composite Gasket Materials
ThisstandardisissuedunderthefixeddesignationF868;thenumberimmediatelyfollowingthedesignationindicatestheyearoforiginal
adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision.Anumber in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval.Asuperscript
epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope A109/A109M Specification for Steel, Strip, Carbon (0.25
Maximum Percent), Cold-Rolled
1.1 This classification covers a means for specifying or
D2000 Classification System for Rubber Products in Auto-
describing pertinent properties of commercial laminate com-
motive Applications
posite gasket materials (LCGM). These structures are com-
F104 Classification System for Nonmetallic Gasket Materi-
posed of two or more chemically different layers of material.
als
These materials may be organic or inorganic, or combinations
F146 Test Methods for Fluid Resistance of Gasket Materials
with various binders or impregnants. Gasket coatings are not
F336 Practice for Design and Construction of Nonmetallic
covered since details thereof are intended to be given on
Enveloped Gaskets for Corrosive Service
engineering drawings, or as separate specifications. Commer-
cial materials designated as enveloped gaskets are excluded F433 Practice for Evaluating Thermal Conductivity of Gas-
from this classification; they are covered in Practice F336.This ket Materials
classification system does not cover multilayer steel (MLS)
F1276 Test Method for Creep Relaxation of Laminated
gaskets currently used for some automotive exhaust and head
Composite Gasket Materials
gaskets.MLSgasketsareclassifiedunderClassificationF2325.
F2325 Classification for Multi-Layer Steel (MLS) and Other
Metal Layer Gaskets for Transportation Applications
1.2 Since all of the properties that contribute to gasket
performance are not included, use of this classification as a
3. Terminology
basis for selecting LCGM is limited.
3.1 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the
standard. The values given in parentheses are for information
3.1.1 board—the term board is used in the context of a thick
only.
(generally greater than 1.52 mm (0.060 in.)) and rigid nonme-
tallic material often purchased in sheet or strip form.
1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
3.1.2 composite gasket material—a gasket structure com-
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
posed of two or more different materials joined together in flat,
priate safety and health practices and determine the applica-
parallel layers.
bility of regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.5 This international standard was developed in accor-
4. Significance and Use
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
4.1 This classification is intended to encourage uniformity
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
in reporting properties; to provide a common language for
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
communications between producers and users; to guide engi-
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
neers and designers in the use, construction, and properties of
commercially available materials; and to be versatile enough to
2. Referenced Documents
cover new materials and test methods as they are introduced.
2.1 ASTM Standards:
5. Basis of Classification
This classification is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee F03 on
5.1 This classification is based on the principle that LCGM
Gaskets and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee F03.30 on Classification.
should be described, insofar as possible, in terms of use,
Current edition approved May 1, 2017. Published May 2017. Originally
composition, combining method, and specific physical and
approved in 1984. Last previous edition approved in 2009 as F868 – 02 (2009).
DOI: 10.1520/F0868-17.
mechanical characteristics.Thus, users of gasket materials can,
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
by selecting different combinations of materials and properties,
contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM
define various parts. Suppliers, likewise, can report uses,
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
the ASTM website. composition, and properties of available products.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
F868−17
6. Numbering System finished gaskets are used, the dimensions of sample and any
variations from method must be reported.
6.1 To permit line call-out of the description mentioned in
5.1, this classification establishes letter or number symbols to
9.2 Sufficient specimens shall be selected to provide a
describe use, composition, and physical properties and perfor-
minimum of three determinations for each test specified. The
mance levels of certain properties.
average of the determinations shall be considered as the result.
6.2 In specifying or describing gasket materials, each line
call-out shall include the number of this system and a number
10. Conditioning
and letter series describing the use, composition, and combin-
10.1 Prior to all tests, specimens shall be conditioned as
ing method plus suffix call-out, as shown in Table 1.
follows:
6.3 To further specify or describe gasket materials, each line
10.1.1 When all Classifi
...

This document is not an ASTM standard and is intended only to provide the user of an ASTM standard an indication of what changes have been made to the previous version. Because
it may not be technically possible to adequately depict all changes accurately, ASTM recommends that users consult prior editions as appropriate. In all cases only the current version
of the standard as published by ASTM is to be considered the official document.
Designation: F868 − 02 (Reapproved 2009) F868 − 17
Standard Classification for
Laminated Composite Gasket Materials
This standard is issued under the fixed designation F868; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of original
adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A superscript
epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope
1.1 This classification covers a means for specifying or describing pertinent properties of commercial laminate composite gasket
materials (LCGM). These structures are composed of two or more chemically different layers of material. These materials may be
organic or inorganic, or combinations with various binders or impregnants. Gasket coatings are not covered since details thereof
are intended to be given on engineering drawings, or as separate specifications. Commercial materials designated as enveloped
gaskets are excluded from this classification; they are covered in Practice F336. This classification system does not cover
multilayer steel (MLS) gaskets currently used for some automotive exhaust and head gaskets. MLS gaskets are classified under
Classification F2325.
1.2 Since all of the properties that contribute to gasket performance are not included, use of this classification as a basis for
selecting LCGM is limited.
1.3 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. The values given in parentheses are for information only.
1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility
of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory
limitations prior to use.
1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization
established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued
by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
A109/A109M Specification for Steel, Strip, Carbon (0.25 Maximum Percent), Cold-Rolled
D2000 Classification System for Rubber Products in Automotive Applications
F104 Classification System for Nonmetallic Gasket Materials
F146 Test Methods for Fluid Resistance of Gasket Materials
F336 Practice for Design and Construction of Nonmetallic Enveloped Gaskets for Corrosive Service
F433 Practice for Evaluating Thermal Conductivity of Gasket Materials
F1276 Test Method for Creep Relaxation of Laminated Composite Gasket Materials
F2325 Classification for Multi-Layer Steel (MLS) and Other Metal Layer Gaskets for Transportation Applications
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
3.1.1 board—the term board is used in the context of a thick (generally greater than 1.52 mm (0.060 in.)) and rigid nonmetallic
material often purchased in sheet or strip form.
3.1.2 composite gasket material—a gasket structure composed of two or more different materials joined together in flat, parallel
layers.
This classification is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee F03 on Gaskets and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee F03.30 on Classification.
Current edition approved May 1, 2009May 1, 2017. Published May 2009May 2017. Originally approved in 1984. Last previous edition approved in 20022009 as
F868 – 02.F868 – 02 (2009). DOI: 10.1520/F0868-02R09.10.1520/F0868-17.
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
F868 − 17
4. Significance and Use
4.1 This classification is intended to encourage uniformity in reporting properties; to provide a common language for
communications between producers and users; to guide engineers and designers in the use, construction, and properties of
commercially available materials; and to be versatile enough to cover new materials and test methods as they are introduced.
5. Basis of Classification
5.1 This classification is based on the principle that LCGM should be described, insofar as possible, in terms of use,
composition, combining method, and specific physical and mechanical characteristics. Thus, users of gasket materials can, by
selecting different combinations of materials and properties, define various parts. Suppliers, likewise, can report uses, composition,
and properties of available products.
6. Numbering System
6.1 To permit line call-out of the description mentioned in 5.1, this classification establishes letter or number symbols to
describe use, composition, and physical properties and performance levels of certain properties.
6.2 In specifying or describing gasket materials, each line call-out shall include the number of this system and a number and
letter series describing the use, composition, and combining method plus suffix call-out, as shown in Table 1.
6.3 To further specify or describe gasket materials, each line call-out may include one or more suffix letter-numeral symbols,
as listed in Table 2.
7. Physical and Mechanical Properties
7.1 Gasket materials identified by this classification shall have a number and letter call-out for end-use and construction
indicated in Table 1 and additional properties by a letter-numeral
...