Abstract: A tandem seal gasket assembly is provided that has a first seal that is compatible with highly corrosive process media or in applications where high purity is required. A radially outer seal is intended to address heat resistant or elevated temperature requirements. In a first preferred arrangement, a PTFE envelope is provided over a profiled metal base ring, the second seal defined by a spiral wound gasket, and an outer guide ring used to limit compression and add radial strength to the assembly. According to a second preferred arrangement, the annular dimension of the metal base ring is increased to cooperate with the PTFE envelope and define the first, radially inner seal. The profiled face of the metal base ring is extended and operatively receives graphite layers to define the second, fire resistant seal. A radially outer portion of the metal base ring extends from the profiled configuration and defines an integral guide ring.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for assembling an inner spiral wound gasket ring (12) within an outer concentric gauge ring (14). The inner gasket ring (12) is first positioned loosely within the outer concentric gauge ring (14) and the combined rings (12, 14) are then positioned within a tapered opening (28) beneath a mandrel (19). Mandrel (19) is then moved downwardly within tapered opening (28) into contact with gauge ring (14) to move gauge ring (14) downwardly along the tapered surface defining the opening (28). Radial deformation of the outer gauge ring (14) occurs to move inner peripheral surface (64) of ring (14) radially inwardly so that a bead (58) on the gasket ring (12) is received within a groove (66) on the gauge ring (14) thereby to maintain the concentric rings (12, 14) in assembled position.