Industrial Applications

Overview of Asbestos in Industrial Applications

Asbestos was widely used in industrial applications throughout the 20th century due to its heat resistance, durability, and insulating properties. It was a critical material in gaskets, packing, rope, wick, cord, and other industrial components, where high temperatures, mechanical stress, and chemical exposure required materials that could withstand extreme conditions. These asbestos-containing products were essential for sealing, insulating, and protecting industrial equipment in power plants, refineries, chemical plants, steel mills, and manufacturing facilities.

Asbestos gaskets and packing materials were commonly used in piping systems, boilers, and machinery, where they sealed joints and prevented leaks under high heat and pressure. Asbestos rope, wick, and cord were valued for their fire resistance and flexibility, making them ideal for heat insulation, fireproof barriers, and industrial sealing applications. The versatility of asbestos in industrial settings meant that it was used extensively in heavy machinery, turbines, and steam systems, ensuring thermal protection and equipment longevity.

Why Was Asbestos Used in Industrial Applications?

Asbestos was widely used in industrial applications due to its exceptional combination of physical and chemical properties, which made it indispensable in high-performance environments. Its versatility allowed it to be incorporated into gaskets, packing, rope, wick, cord, and other industrial products that required durability, heat resistance, and chemical stability. Below are the key reasons why asbestos was so extensively utilized:

Heat and Fire Resistance: Asbestos’s ability to withstand extreme temperatures without degrading or combusting made it ideal for industrial applications involving high heat or fire hazards. Asbestos gaskets, packing, and rope were commonly used in steam pipes, boilers, industrial furnaces, and welding equipment. Additionally, asbestos rope and wicking were employed in fireproof curtains, protective barriers, and high-temperature insulation for machinery and equipment. This dual resistance to heat and fire ensured safety and reliability in demanding industrial settings.

[Learn more about the heat and fire resistance of asbestos.]

Durability and Longevity: Asbestos fibers reinforced industrial materials, providing exceptional durability and resistance to wear and tear. This made asbestos products particularly effective in high-pressure and high-friction environments, such as sealing materials for machinery and equipment. The longevity of asbestos-based products reduced the need for frequent replacements, making them cost-effective for industries like energy production, shipbuilding, and heavy manufacturing.

[Learn more about the strength and durability of asbestos.]

Chemical and Corrosion Resistance: Asbestos’s chemical inertness allowed it to resist exposure to oils, acids, solvents, and other corrosive substances. This property made asbestos packing and gaskets indispensable in chemical plants, refineries, and other facilities where materials were exposed to harsh chemicals. Its resistance to corrosion ensured that asbestos products maintained their integrity and performance over time, even in aggressive environments.

[Learn more about the chemical resistance of asbestos.]

Flexibility and Strength: Asbestos fibers combined flexibility with tensile strength, enabling the production of versatile materials like rope, wick, and cord. These materials were used as insulation wrapping, fireproof barriers, and industrial seals. Their flexibility allowed them to conform to irregular shapes and surfaces, while their strength ensured they could withstand mechanical stress and maintain their effectiveness in demanding applications.

Because of these properties, asbestos industrial materials were widely used in energy production, metalworking, shipbuilding, and heavy manufacturing. Gaskets and packing materials sealed high-pressure steam pipes and machinery, while asbestos rope and wick were used in furnaces, kilns, and welding applications.

However, despite their durability and effectiveness, asbestos-containing industrial products pose serious health risks. Cutting, shaping, or handling asbestos gaskets, packing, or rope can release dangerous airborne fibers, leading to mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. As regulations on asbestos tightened, safer alternatives like graphite, PTFE (Teflon), ceramic fiber, and aramid (Kevlar) replaced asbestos in modern industrial applications.

Types of Asbestos Used in Industrial Components

Asbestos was extensively used in the production of industrial components such as gaskets, packing, rope, wick, and cord due to its remarkable properties, including heat resistance, tensile strength, and chemical inertness. Three primary types of asbestos were commonly utilized in these applications:

Chrysotile (White Asbestos): Chrysotile was the most widely used type of asbestos in industrial components. Its fine, flexible fibers made it ideal for weaving into textiles and manufacturing products like rope, cord, and wicks. Chrysotile’s high tensile strength and heat resistance also made it a preferred choice for gaskets and packing materials, where durability and the ability to withstand high temperatures were critical.

Amosite (Brown Asbestos): Amosite was often used in industrial components requiring enhanced structural integrity and heat resistance. Its coarse, strong fibers were particularly suited for heavy-duty gaskets and packing materials used in high-temperature and high-pressure environments. Amosite’s durability also made it a reliable choice for industrial rope and lagging applications.

Crocidolite (Blue Asbestos): Crocidolite was valued for its exceptional resistance to heat and chemicals, making it a key material in industrial components exposed to harsh conditions. Its strong, thin fibers were often used in the production of gaskets, packing, and specialized industrial ropes. Crocidolite’s ability to withstand extreme environments made it particularly useful in applications requiring superior chemical and thermal resistance.

These types of asbestos were integral to the development of industrial components, offering unique advantages that were unmatched by other materials at the time. However, the significant health risks associated with asbestos exposure have led to strict regulations and the replacement of asbestos in most industrial applications.

Learn more about the six minerals that we call asbestos.

Common Applications of Asbestos in Industrial Settings

Asbestos was extensively utilized in industrial components due to its exceptional heat resistance, chemical durability, tensile strength, and insulating properties. These characteristics made it indispensable in industries such as manufacturing, power generation, chemical processing, shipbuilding, and oil and gas. The ability of asbestos to withstand extreme temperatures, high pressures, and corrosive environments allowed it to play a critical role in ensuring the safety, efficiency, and longevity of machinery and equipment in these demanding settings.

Industrial components such as gaskets, packing materials, ropes, wicks, cords, and textiles were often manufactured with asbestos fibers. These components were essential in sealing, insulating, and protecting industrial systems. For example, asbestos gaskets and packing materials were used to prevent leaks and maintain pressure in boilers, steam engines, and piping systems. Similarly, asbestos ropes, cords, and wicks were employed for thermal insulation and fireproofing in high-temperature environments like furnaces, kilns, and turbines. The versatility of asbestos allowed it to be woven into flexible yet durable products, making it useful for industries such as these:

Manufacturing and Heavy Industry: In manufacturing and heavy industry, asbestos was a primary material for high-temperature gaskets, packing materials, and seals. These components were used in boilers, industrial machinery, and heat exchangers to prevent leaks and ensure the safe operation of equipment under extreme conditions. Asbestos packing materials were also wrapped around pipes and valves to reduce friction, prevent leaks, and resist chemical exposure.

Power Plants and Refineries: Power plants and refineries relied heavily on asbestos for insulating ropes, cords, and textiles. These materials were used to insulate turbines, steam pipes, and high-pressure equipment, ensuring thermal efficiency and protecting workers from heat exposure. Asbestos’s ability to withstand high temperatures and resist chemical degradation made it a vital material in these energy-intensive industries.

Chemical Processing and Metalworking: In chemical processing and metalworking, asbestos was used in gaskets, ropes, and wicks to provide heat resistance and chemical durability. These components were essential in furnaces, reactors, and industrial kilns, where they could withstand acidic, high-pressure, or solvent-heavy environments. Foundries also used asbestos cloth and rope to handle molten metal and line industrial molds and crucibles, taking advantage of its fireproof and insulating properties.

Shipbuilding and Marine Industry: The shipbuilding industry utilized asbestos for waterproof and fireproof packing materials, gaskets, and insulation wraps. These components were critical in marine boilers, steam pipes, and bulkheads, where they sealed high-pressure connections and prevented water ingress. Asbestos-reinforced insulation was also installed in engine rooms and living quarters to reduce fire hazards and improve safety at sea.

Oil and Gas Industry: In the oil and gas industry, asbestos was used in gaskets, seals, and packing materials for drilling, refining, and pipeline operations. These components needed to withstand high pressures, extreme temperatures, and exposure to corrosive substances, making asbestos an ideal material for these applications.

Learn more about how various industries utilized asbestos.

Types of Asbestos Products Used in Industrial Settings

Asbestos was widely used in industrial settings due to its exceptional heat resistance, fireproofing capabilities, chemical durability, and insulating properties. Below are the primary types of asbestos-containing products used in manufacturing, power plants, refineries, and heavy industry.

Gaskets, Seals, and Packing Materials: Asbestos gaskets and seals were essential for preventing leaks and withstanding extreme temperatures and pressures in boilers, steam pipes, heat exchangers, and chemical processing equipment. Packing materials made from asbestos were wrapped around valves, pumps, and piping systems to reduce friction, resist chemical exposure, and maintain airtight seals in high-pressure environments. These materials were especially valued in chemical plants, oil refineries, and shipbuilding, where resistance to acids, solvents, and extreme heat was critical.

Fireproofing and Thermal Insulation Materials: Asbestos insulation wraps, blankets, and boards were used to protect boilers, furnaces, kilns, and industrial ductwork by minimizing heat loss and fire risks. Heat-resistant ropes, cords, and wicks made from asbestos were woven into fireproof barriers for turbines, engines, and foundries. Fireproof panels, boards, and spray-on coatings containing asbestos were commonly installed in high-risk industrial spaces, ship engine rooms, and power plants to slow the spread of fire and improve worker safety.

Brake Linings, Clutch Facings, and Friction Products: Asbestos brake linings and clutch facings were widely used in heavy machinery, mining equipment, and industrial vehicles, providing heat dissipation and wear resistance in high-friction applications. Conveyor belts and drive belts reinforced with asbestos were common in factories and processing plants, allowing industrial transport systems to endure constant friction and extreme mechanical stress. Some asbestos materials were also incorporated into bearings and lubrication components to reduce heat buildup in machinery and mechanical systems.

Heat-Resistant Textiles and Protective Equipment: Asbestos gloves, aprons, blankets, and curtains were used in welding, foundries, and metalworking industries, where workers required protection from extreme heat, molten metal, and sparks. Fireproof curtains and shields containing asbestos were installed in high-temperature work environments to safeguard both personnel and equipment. Asbestos was also woven into industrial fabrics for use in gaskets, expansion joints, and insulation wraps, where flexibility and fire resistance were needed.

Chemical-Resistant and Acid-Resistant Materials: Asbestos gaskets, linings, and seals were widely used in chemical processing and industrial tanks because of their resistance to acids, alkalis, and solvents. Asbestos-reinforced cement coatings and linings were applied to industrial tanks, pipes, and ducts to prevent corrosion and withstand harsh chemical exposure. These products were crucial in environments where extreme heat and caustic substances would quickly degrade other materials.

Workers and Individuals Exposed to Asbestos in Industrial Applications Are at Risk of Asbestos-Related Diseases

Asbestos was widely used in gaskets, packing materials, rope insulation, sealing compounds, fireproofing textiles, and industrial insulation, exposing factory workers, machinists, refinery workers, and power plant employees to hazardous asbestos fibers. These materials were especially dangerous when cut, shaped, installed, or deteriorated over time, releasing airborne asbestos dust that workers unknowingly inhaled.

Medical research has conclusively demonstrated that exposure to asbestos industrial products can cause the following serious illnesses:

Mesothelioma: Workers in boiler rooms, power plants, refineries, and chemical plants who handled asbestos gaskets, seals, packing materials, and industrial insulation faced a heightened risk of mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive cancer. The cutting, fitting, and removal of asbestos materials exposed workers to fine airborne asbestos fibers that could become lodged in the lungs or abdomen.

Lung Cancer: Long-term exposure to airborne asbestos fibers from gaskets, pipe insulation, and fireproofing textiles significantly increases the risk of lung cancer. Workers in manufacturing plants, steel mills, and industrial settings faced high exposure levels due to handling, machining, and maintaining asbestos-containing materials.

Asbestosis: Asbestosis is a chronic lung disease caused by prolonged inhalation of asbestos fibers. Workers in industrial maintenance, chemical processing, and shipbuilding who frequently handled asbestos rope, textiles, and packing materials were at risk of lung scarring, reduced lung function, and severe respiratory distress.

Throat and Gastrointestinal Cancers: Asbestos fibers released from cutting, grinding, or handling industrial insulation, sealing compounds, and high-temperature gaskets could be inhaled or ingested, leading to cancers of the throat, stomach, and intestines. Industrial machinists, power plant workers, and refinery employees who worked with high-temperature asbestos components are at an increased risk of developing these conditions.

Learn More About the Diseases Asbestos Can Cause

How Asbestos Exposure Occurred from Industrial Applications

Asbestos exposure in industrial applications was a widespread hazard due to the material’s extensive use in high-temperature, high-pressure, and fireproofing environments. Workers across various industries were frequently exposed to airborne asbestos fibers during the handling, installation, maintenance, and removal of asbestos-containing materials (ACMs). The following details highlight key industrial processes where asbestos exposure occurred and the associated risks faced by workers.

Gasket and Seal Replacement: Asbestos gaskets and seals were widely used in industrial machinery, turbines, and high-pressure systems due to their excellent heat resistance, durability, and chemical inertness. Workers were tasked with cutting, shaping, and installing these gaskets to ensure a tight seal in equipment operating under extreme conditions.

Exposure Risks: Cutting or trimming asbestos gaskets often involved the use of hand tools or power tools, which released fine asbestos dust into the air. During installation or removal, friction and handling could dislodge asbestos fibers, making them airborne. Maintenance workers were particularly at risk when replacing worn or damaged gaskets, as the old materials often degraded into friable (easily crumbled) forms, increasing the likelihood of fiber release.

Boiler and Pipe Insulation Handling: Asbestos was a key material in insulating boilers, pipes, and other high-temperature equipment. It was applied in the form of lagging (asbestos cloth or sheets wrapped around pipes), rope insulation, or pre-formed asbestos blocks and heat shields. These materials were used extensively in power plants, shipyards, and industrial facilities to prevent heat loss and protect workers from burns.

Exposure Risks: Workers installing, repairing, or removing asbestos insulation were exposed to significant amounts of asbestos dust. Cutting or shaping insulation materials released fibers into the air, while removing old or damaged insulation often disturbed friable asbestos. The confined spaces in boiler rooms and engine rooms exacerbated exposure, as fibers could remain suspended in the air for extended periods.

Packing and Seal Service and Replacement: Asbestos packing materials were used to seal joints, valves, and pumps in industrial equipment, particularly in environments involving high temperatures, steam, or chemicals. These packings were often made by combining asbestos fibers with fillers and binders, forming a pliable material that could be molded into sheets, ropes, or rings. They were essential in preventing leaks and maintaining pressure in machinery.

Exposure Risks: Workers installing or replacing asbestos packing materials were exposed to fibers during cutting, shaping, and fitting. Over time, the packing materials could degrade, becoming friable and releasing fibers into the air during maintenance or removal. The confined spaces where these tasks were often performed, such as engine rooms or industrial plants, heightened the risk of inhaling asbestos dust.

Secondary Exposure: In all these scenarios, workers often carried asbestos fibers home on their clothing, skin, and tools, inadvertently exposing their families to hazardous fibers. This phenomenon, known as “take-home exposure,” was a significant source of asbestos-related diseases among workers’ families.

By understanding these exposure pathways, we can better appreciate the historical risks faced by industrial workers and the importance of modern regulations and safety measures to prevent similar hazards today.

Identifying and Handling Asbestos in Industrial Applications

Asbestos was widely used in gaskets, packing materials, rope insulation, sealing compounds, fireproof textiles, and industrial insulation in manufacturing plants, refineries, power plants, and heavy industry. These materials may still be present in older machinery, industrial equipment, and factory infrastructure, posing severe exposure risks if disturbed. Proper identification and safe handling are crucial to minimizing asbestos exposure. The following are some strong indicators of the presence of asbestos:

Age of Equipment and Materials

Pre-1990s Equipment: Industrial equipment and materials installed before the 1990s are more likely to contain asbestos, as its use was widespread during this period.

Peak Usage Period: Asbestos use peaked in the mid-20th century, particularly in heavy industries such as shipbuilding, manufacturing, and construction.

Regulatory Changes: By the late 20th century, regulations began restricting asbestos use, but older facilities may still house legacy materials.

Physical Characteristics

Gaskets and Packing Materials: These often have a fibrous or woven texture, sometimes appearing as dense, compacted layers.

Insulation: Asbestos insulation may appear as thick, rigid coatings, wraps, or boards around pipes, boilers, and other high-temperature equipment. It may also be crumbly or friable in older installations.

Fireproof Textiles: Asbestos textiles, such as fire blankets or protective clothing, typically have a woven, cloth-like appearance and may feel coarse or stiff.

Cement-Based Products: Asbestos cement used in industrial settings often appears as rigid, grayish panels or coatings, commonly found in high-temperature environments.

Common Applications

Thermal Insulation: Asbestos was extensively used to insulate steam pipes, boilers, and turbines to prevent heat loss and protect workers from burns.

Gaskets and Seals: Found in industrial machinery, these components were designed to withstand high temperatures and pressures.

Refractory Linings: Asbestos was used in linings for furnaces, kilns, and other high-temperature equipment due to its heat resistance.

Fireproof Coatings: Applied to walls, ceilings, and structural components in industrial facilities to enhance fire resistance.

Cement and Mortar: Asbestos-reinforced cement was used in industrial construction for its strength and fireproofing properties.

Manufacturer Labels

Labeling Practices: Some older equipment may have labels, stamps, or documentation indicating the presence of asbestos. Look for terms such as: “Asbestos” - “Chrysotile” (white asbestos) - “Amosite” (brown asbestos) - “Crocidolite” (blue asbestos)

Absence of Labels: In some cases, asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) may not be explicitly labeled, especially in older installations, making professional testing necessary.

Additional Tips for Identification

Visual Inspection: While some asbestos-containing materials are visually distinctive, others may resemble non-asbestos alternatives. When in doubt, assume the material contains asbestos until proven otherwise.

Professional Testing: The only definitive way to confirm asbestos presence is through laboratory analysis of material samples. Engage certified professionals for testing and inspection.

Safety Precautions: Avoid disturbing suspected asbestos materials, as this can release hazardous fibers into the air. Always follow proper safety protocols and wear protective equipment when working near potential asbestos.

Professional Testing

Because asbestos fibers are microscopic, visual inspection alone is insufficient. If asbestos is suspected:

Do Not Disturb the Material: Damaging or moving it can release hazardous fibers.

Hire a Certified Asbestos Professional: They can collect samples safely and test them in a laboratory to confirm asbestos content.

Safe Handling and Removal of Asbestos in Industrial Applications

When to Leave Asbestos Undisturbed: Asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) are most hazardous when they are damaged or disturbed. If the material is intact and undisturbed:

Encapsulation: Sealing the material with a protective coating can prevent fiber release.

Monitoring: Regular inspections can ensure the material remains in a safe condition.

Professional abatement is required if:

Renovation or maintenance work involves disturbing ACMs.

Materials such as pipe insulation, gaskets, or refractory linings are deteriorating (e.g., cracking, peeling, or fraying).

Key Safety Precautions for Handling Asbestos

Avoid Disturbance:

Do not sand, cut, drill, or grind ACMs, as this can release fibers into the air.

Never attempt DIY removal—this is both dangerous and illegal in many jurisdictions.

Use Proper Protective Equipment (PPE): Wear respirators with HEPA filters, disposable gloves, and coveralls. Ensure all PPE is properly fitted and disposed of after use.

Minimize Dust: Use wet methods (e.g., spraying water) to suppress dust when handling ACMs. Avoid using power tools that generate dust.

Dispose of Asbestos Waste Properly: Asbestos waste must be sealed in leak-proof containers, clearly labeled, and transported to designated hazardous waste facilities.

Hiring a Certified Asbestos Abatement Professional

Certified asbestos abatement professionals follow strict protocols to ensure safety during removal. Key steps include:

Sealing Off the Work Area: The area is isolated with plastic sheeting and negative air pressure systems to prevent contamination.

Wet Removal Techniques: Materials are kept damp to minimize airborne fibers.

HEPA Filtration and Air Monitoring: High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters capture fibers, and air quality is monitored to ensure safety.
Safe Disposal: All asbestos waste is transported to approved hazardous waste facilities in compliance with local regulations.

How to Choose a Professional

Verify certifications: Ensure the contractor is EPA-certified or state-licensed.

Check references and reviews: Look for a proven track record in industrial asbestos abatement.

Confirm compliance: Ensure the contractor follows OSHA and EPA guidelines for asbestos handling and removal.

Asbestos in industrial applications remains a significant safety concern, particularly in older facilities. Proper identification, handling, and removal are critical to minimizing exposure risks. By following the guidelines outlined above and consulting certified professionals, industries can ensure the safety of their workers and compliance with regulatory standards.

Our Law Firm Assists Individuals Exposed to Asbestos in Industrial Applications

For decades, workers in factories, power plants, shipbuilding, and heavy industry unknowingly handled asbestos-containing gaskets, packing materials, insulation, and industrial seals without being warned of the dangers. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, lung cancer, or another asbestos-related disease, you may be eligible for compensation. Our law firm is committed to helping asbestos exposure victims and their families by providing legal representation in the following areas:

Asbestos Trust Claims: Many companies that manufactured or supplied asbestos-containing industrial materials have established asbestos trust funds to compensate affected workers. If you were exposed through industrial machinery, boiler insulation, or gasket materials, you may qualify for a financial claim without having to file a lawsuit.

Asbestos Lawsuits: Manufacturers of asbestos-containing gaskets, insulation wraps, and packing materials knew the risks but continued using asbestos for decades. If you or a loved one has been harmed due to asbestos exposure, you may have the right to file a lawsuit seeking compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Asbestos Disability Claims: Workers diagnosed with asbestos-related illnesses may qualify for Social Security Disability benefits or veterans’ disability benefits if they were exposed during military or industrial service. Our legal team can help guide you through the claims process to secure the compensation you deserve.

Contact Us for a Free Consultation

If you or a loved one were exposed to asbestos industrial products and have been diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease, we are here to help. Call us anytime at 833-4-ASBESTOS or fill out the form below for a free consultation.