A cork sheet is a versatile, natural, and sustainable material crafted from the bark of the cork oak tree (Quercus suber). At Kaxite Sealing, we harness this remarkable resource to produce high-performance sealing, gasketing, and insulation solutions. Our sheets are not just raw material; they are engineered products designed for durability, resilience, and superior performance in demanding applications. The inherent properties of cork—including excellent compressibility, recovery, impermeability to liquids and gases, and natural fire resistance—make it an ideal choice for industries ranging from automotive and aerospace to construction and marine. By choosing Kaxite Sealing, you are selecting a partner dedicated to quality, precision, and providing eco-friendly alternatives without compromising on technical specifications.
Kaxite Sealing cork sheets stand out in the market due to our meticulous manufacturing process and stringent quality controls. Here are the core benefits our products deliver:
To ensure you select the perfect cork sheet for your application, Kaxite Sealing offers a range of products with specific technical parameters. Below are detailed specifications for our standard product line.
Our cork sheets are primarily made from granulated cork bark combined with binders and then compressed under heat. We offer several grades:
| Parameter | Standard Natural Cork | Cork-Nitrile Composite | Test Standard |
|---|---|---|---|
| Density | 200 - 450 kg/m³ | 450 - 650 kg/m³ | ASTM D1622 |
| Compression Recovery | ≥ 90% | ≥ 85% | ASTM F36 |
| Tensile Strength | 0.8 - 1.2 MPa | 1.5 - 3.0 MPa | ASTM D412 |
| Compression Set (22h @ 70°C) | 15 - 25% | 20 - 35% | ASTM D395 |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40°C to +120°C | -40°C to +150°C | - |
| Thermal Conductivity | 0.04 - 0.05 W/m·K | 0.05 - 0.07 W/m·K | ASTM C518 |
| Sheet Size (Width x Length) | Available Thickness (mm) | Standard Roll Sizes (Width x Length) |
|---|---|---|
| 1000mm x 1000mm | 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 3.0, 4.0, 5.0, 6.0 | 1000mm x 10m |
| 1220mm x 1220mm | 1.5, 2.0, 3.0, 4.0, 5.0, 6.0, 8.0, 10.0 | 1220mm x 10m / 25m |
| 1500mm x 1500mm | 3.0, 4.0, 5.0, 6.0, 8.0, 10.0, 12.5, 15.0 | 1500mm x 10m |
| Chemical / Fluid | Natural Cork | Cork-Nitrile | Cork-Neoprene |
|---|---|---|---|
| Water, Sea Water | Excellent | Excellent | Excellent |
| Motor Oils, Greases | Good | Excellent | Good |
| Gasoline, Diesel Fuel | Fair to Poor | Excellent | Good |
| Hydraulic Fluids (Petroleum based) | Fair | Excellent | Good |
| Mild Acids & Alkalis | Good | Good | Excellent |
| Steam (Intermittent) | Fair | Good | Excellent |
Q: What is the main difference between natural cork sheet and composite cork-rubber sheet?
A: The primary difference lies in composition and enhanced properties. Natural cork sheet is made almost entirely of cork granules, offering superior compressibility and recovery, making it ideal for sealing uneven surfaces and for vibration isolation. Composite cork sheets, like our Kaxite Sealing Cork-Nitrile, blend cork with rubber polymers. This combination significantly improves resistance to oils, fuels, and compression set (permanent deformation), making them suitable for demanding automotive or industrial gasketing applications involving aggressive fluids.
Q: How do I select the correct thickness for my gasket application?
A: Thickness selection depends on flange conditions, pressure, and the required seal. For standard flanges with minor imperfections (Ra < 125 µin), a 1.5mm or 2.0mm sheet is often sufficient. For more uneven surfaces or higher compression needs, 3.0mm is common. Thicker sheets (6mm+) are typically used for heavy-duty vibration isolation pads or acoustic insulation. Always consult Kaxite Sealing's technical datasheets or our engineering team for application-specific recommendations to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
Q: Can Kaxite Sealing cork sheets be used for outdoor applications?
A: Yes, absolutely. Cork is naturally resistant to weathering, UV radiation, and moisture rot. For permanent outdoor installations, such as expansion joint fillers in construction or seals in marine hatches, we recommend our composite sheets (e.g., Cork-Neoprene) for extended resistance to ozone and temperature extremes. The natural waxes in cork (suberin) provide inherent waterproofing qualities.
Q: What is the best way to cut and fabricate cork sheets on-site?
A: Kaxite Sealing cork sheets are user-friendly and can be fabricated with common tools. For straight cuts, a sharp utility knife, straight edge, and a cutting mat work well. For complex gasket shapes, a paper template can be pinned or glued to the sheet, and the shape can be cut out with scissors, a knife, or a die-cutting press for volume production. For hole punching, standard leather punches or sharpened metal tubes are effective. Always cut slightly outside the line for a perfect fit after final compression.
Q: Are cork sheets flammable? What fire ratings do they have?
A: Cork is a natural fire retardant. It does not readily support flame and will char without dripping or emitting significant toxic smoke. Many of our standard products meet classifications such as Class 1 per ASTM E84 for surface burning characteristics. For projects with stringent fire safety requirements, Kaxite Sealing offers specially treated fire-rated cork sheets that comply with higher standards. Always specify your required fire rating when requesting a quote.
Q: How sustainable and eco-friendly are your cork sheets compared to synthetic alternatives?
A: Kaxite Sealing is committed to sustainability. Cork is one of the most renewable resources on the planet. Harvesting the bark does not harm the tree, which regenerates its bark every 9-12 years. Our manufacturing process prioritizes energy efficiency and waste minimization. Compared to synthetic foam or rubber sheets, cork has a significantly lower carbon footprint, is fully biodegradable at end-of-life, and contributes to the preservation of cork oak forests, which are vital ecosystems. Choosing our cork sheet is an environmentally responsible decision.
Q: Do you offer custom-sized sheets or pre-cut gaskets?
A: Yes, Kaxite Sealing specializes in both standard stock and custom solutions. We can supply sheets in non-standard sizes, specific thicknesses outside our standard range, and sheets laminated with various facings (foil, fabric, adhesive). Furthermore, we have advanced die-cutting and CNC capabilities to supply precision-cut gaskets, seals, or insulation parts ready for installation, saving you time and material waste. Contact our sales team with your drawings or specifications for a custom quote.
The versatility of cork makes it applicable across a broad spectrum of industries. Here are some of the most common uses for our products:
At Kaxite Sealing, we are more than just a supplier; we are your technical partner. Our team possesses deep expertise in material science and application engineering. We encourage you to contact us with your specific requirements, whether you need help selecting the right grade, require a custom-formulated composite, or need technical data for compliance submissions. We provide comprehensive sample kits, detailed technical datasheets, and responsive customer support to ensure your project's success from specification to installation.
