Which component is primarily used to ensure a tight seal within piping systems?

The component primarily used to ensure a tight seal within piping systems is a gasket. A gasket is a material placed between two surfaces to create a barrier that prevents the escape of fluids or gases, thereby providing a leak-proof seal. Gaskets are typically made from materials like rubber, neoprene, or other resilient substances that can compress and conform to irregularities in surfaces, enhancing the sealing capability.

In a piping system, where connections are made between different sections of pipe or between flanges, the gasket serves as the critical element that prevents leaks under pressure. It is essential during assembly, as even small gaps can lead to significant issues, including reduced efficiency and potential safety hazards.

To provide more context, although couplings, nipples, and valves are important components in a piping system, they do not primarily function as sealing elements. Couplings join two pipes together, nipples provide a short length of pipe for connection purposes, and valves control the flow of fluids. While they contribute to the overall functionality of the system, it is specifically the gasket that guarantees a tight and effective seal against leaks.