New Stopper Technologies for MLS Gaskets 2002-01-0665

The current trend in today's engine environment is dictated by an increased need for higher robustness and performance. Therefore more engine head gasket applications require a fresh and more rigid approach. Currently about 50% of the total cylinder head gasket market is designed and equipped with folded stopper layers. The stopper layer increases the overall robustness of the gasket by increasing both the contact stress in the combustion area and the fatigue life of the functional layers. The increased demand in the diesel segment in Europe and the expected growth in North America will intensify the need for new methods to manufacture these stopper gaskets with higher design flexibility and process robustness in a more economical way. This paper gives an overview of today's methods of manufacture of stopper layers and stopper zones including their advantages and potential to include future enhancements, such as topographic heights for reduced bore distortion.