A sealing material used to form a tight seal between moving components in steam and hydraulic machinery, valves, spindles and pumps. Asbestos fibres were twisted (and some braided or plaited) and treated with graphite binders and lubricants to improve sealing capabilities. Asbestos gland packing was resistant to high temperatures, chemicals and pressure.
Often an imported product.
Years of production/use
Prior to 2003
Brands/products
Crosslite (UK)
Phoenix (UK)
Bestobell (Bell’s asbestos & Engineering (Aust)
Tuxeen
Residential uses
Used by amateur enthusiasts
Industrial uses
Mechanical engineering and maintenance for machinery and plant
Be aware
Removing packing from packaging may release fibres