Which thickness is best for a gasket?

Garlock recommends the use of thinner gaskets wherever possible. This not only lowers the cost of the gasket, it increases the performance of the joint by lowering emissions and product loss and increasing blowout resistance. Thinner gaskets will not seal as many flange irregularities as thicker gaskets, however, and require flatter flanges. Experience with the particular flange system is often an important guide when specifying a gasket thickness. A more complete discussion of the subject is available.