Ring gaskets may be affected by all of the following except?

Ring gaskets play a crucial role in ensuring a proper seal between two flanged surfaces, and their performance can indeed be influenced by various factors. The torque applied to the bolts is significant because it affects how tightly the flanges are pressed together, thereby impacting the effectiveness of the gasket in preventing leaks. System temperature also has a direct influence since thermal expansion or contraction can affect the integrity of the seal and the material properties of the gasket itself. Additionally, the quality of the material used for the gasket can greatly determine its performance under different operating conditions, such as pressure and temperature.

The number of bolts, while important for ensuring even distribution of pressure across the flange, does not directly affect the gasket's material or its sealing capability. Instead, it primarily serves to provide structural support to the flanges. If all bolts are tightened to the correct torque, the number of bolts itself does not influence the performance of the gasket in the same way that factors like temperature, torque, or material quality do. Therefore, it is correct to state that ring gaskets may not be directly affected by the number of bolts.