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Graphitized yarns: uses, applications and importance in the industry

Published on 9/4/2020· Updated on 7/22/2026

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Due to its resistance to temperature, as well as to chemicals and substances, graphite is one of the most widely used materials in the production of dynamically applied packing. The graphitized cord is also known as packing or braided packing, as it receives its name according to its manufacturing process.

Graphitized yarns: uses, applications and importance in the industry

It is very frequently used for sealing pumps to reduce leakage of steam, water, minerals, synthetic oils, gases, as well as chemicals.

Because graphite is practically inert with most industrial fluids, graphitized beads can be used in a wide range of applications. For example, for sealing equipment operating at high temperatures and in the presence of chemicals or lubricating oils.

This type of packing is manufactured from pure expanded graphite and due to its characteristics, it can guarantee zero leakage during its lifetime.

The applications of graphitized cord are varied, however, some of the main ones in refineries, power plants, petrochemical, chemical, paper and pulp mills are:

  • In stuffing boxes
  • Valve stems
  • Mixers
  • Agitators
  • Static applications
  • Pumps

Some of the advantages of using expanded graphite for graphitized cords or packings is that it is a self-lubricating material so that packings made from it are able to withstand high pressures as well as temperatures.

Varieties of graphitized cords

According to their sizes, there are different sizes of graphite cords: one-quarter inch 1/4", three-eighths inch 3/8", half inch 1/2", five-eighths inch 5/8", three-quarters inch 3/4" and one inch 1".

As mentioned above, the larger the size, the wider the cord.

There is also a graphitized Teflon (PTFE) cord that is made of braided carbon fibers impregnated with Teflon, as well as a lubricated Teflon fiber jacket. The benefits of this type of cord are that with a low setting pressure a secure seal is achieved.

Similarly, there is the graphitized asbestos cord. In general asbestos fibers are designed to operate at low peripheral speeds and low temperatures, however, the addition of graphite increases the tolerance and strength.

At we are committed to support our customers to develop their projects and provide them with graphitized cord or some other products. We market and produce a wide range of graphite materials for a variety of applications.  If you are interested in getting a quote or personalized advice click on the following link.

Limitations to consider

Performance depends on graphite grade, grain orientation, temperature, load, pressure, speed, and operating environment. Material selection should be confirmed for your actual process conditions.

Information needed for a quote

To guide selection or prepare a quote, ESGRAF typically needs:

  • Application and operating conditions (temperature, atmosphere, load).
  • Dimensions, technical drawing, or CAD file when applicable.
  • Required quantity.
  • Requested grade or material currently in use.
  • Observed issue with the previous part or lubricant, if any.

Request a quote

Share these details with our team at ESGRAF or request information. A specialist will review your application before recommending a grade or geometry.

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