Overtension of an asbestos gasket

[shvet]

Hello, forum

I have a packed rectification column 2.2x25m, operating at vacuum 30kPaa@200°C, installed outdoor, no roof, no windshield, continious operation >8k h/y. An engineering contractor has proposed no access holes and shell devided by flanges, spiral-wound gaskets for piping&instrumentation flanges, asbestos gasket for shell flanges.

I appeal to mech engineers involved in rectification design befor. Please comment is it possible to find a gasket material suitable for such service? My concerns are mostly related to bottom flange:
wind load + column weight + packing weight + liquid weight = uncontrollable air leak

PS
Please do not recommend change the design. I know, I know...

 

[TugboatEng]

Consider using an integral seal type gasket. These are rubber gaskets with metal frames. The metal frame will improve the mechanical strength of your connection. There are quite a few rubber options that will tolerate your listed temperature.

https://ph.parker.com/us/en/product-list/custom-gask-o-seals

https://unitedseal.com/portfolio/parker-integral-seal/

 

[shvet]

thank you

 

[TugboatEng]

You can also fabricate your own concentric rings and use an off the shelf o-ring. You may need to do this to support pressure in both positive and vacuum conditions.

Construct the metal washers so that their thickness and diameter difference matches recommend o-ring groove dimensions.