Which component is essential for creating a watertight seal between two pipe sections?

To create a watertight seal between two pipe sections, a gasket is crucial. Gaskets are designed to fill the space between two surfaces, creating a barrier that prevents liquids or gases from passing through. When installed correctly, the gasket compresses as the pipe sections are joined, ensuring there are no gaps where leaks could occur.

In pipefitting, gaskets are often used in flanged connections, which are common in various piping systems. The material of the gasket may vary depending on the type of fluid being transported and the piping material, but their primary function remains the same: to provide a reliable, leak-proof seal that can withstand pressure without deteriorating.

Other components, such as couplings, play the role of connecting two pipe sections but do not inherently provide the sealing function. Nuts are generally utilized to secure connections, while hangers are structural supports that hold the pipes in place. However, they do not directly contribute to creating a watertight seal, making the gasket the essential component in this context.