Form-In-Place Gaskets

Liquid gaskets have traditionally been used to prevent the ingress of dust and moisture, but an increasing number of manufacturers are moving towards liquid gasket sealants and automated dispensing due to the cost savings and increased productivity they provide.

What are Form-in-Place Gaskets?

Simply, Form in Place gaskets (FIP) are seals created by dispensing a bead of material directly onto a surface where a gasket is needed and allowing it to cure between components.

The liquid, typically dispensed using automated equipment, conforms to the exact shape of the part and then cures between components via heat, moisture, or UV light creating a seamless seal. This is different to CIP (Cured-in-Place) gaskets which are cured before assembly and then compressed between components. FIP gaskets are primarily anaerobic adhesives or RTV silicones.

FIP gaskets are recognised as a proven, low cost, high-speed alternative to O-Rings, pre moulded or die cut gaskets.

Benefits of Form-in-Place Gaskets: 

• Products can be made smaller and lighter
• Better resistance to heat differential expansion
• Adhesion to various substrates including aluminium, steel, plastics, ceramics, and glass
• Shorter lead times and assembly cost savings when compared to O-ring or die-cut gasket installation
• Better reliability
• Reduced inventory
• Adhesives will fill gaps on scratched or damaged surfaces
• Easier application and automation than typical gaskets

Typical Applications for FIP Gaskets:

• EMI and RFI Shielding in mobile phones and telecom devices
• Display panel support and light shielding in screen displays
• Acoustic vibration damping in handheld devices, navigation systems, optical equipment
• Thermal insulating or conducting in electronics 
• Sealing automotive enegines and transmissions
• Preventing contamination in medical devices