Flange isolation is very critical. They prevent corrosion and costly leakage from the pipeline. But even small installation problems like using an improper bolt torque and gasket, are often not seen until failure occurs and result in huge financial expenditures on their repair.
Often, these types of errors are due to buying parts from different sources and mixing up the quality of the materials used for construction, and not having the right installation technique. In this case, the help of a pre-made flange isolation kit can save time and effort. The pre-made kit offers matching gaskets, sleeves, and washers in one package.
This blog talks about the common mistakes during flange isolation and how the flange caddy toolkit in Alberta by AMW Industrial Services can support the process to run smoothly.
Flange isolation is the prevention of electric currents flowing between two parts of a pipeline that have been joined by a flange.
It prevents pipeline corrosion and damage caused by the effect of stray currents and any chemical reaction between metals of different types.
The standard isolation process uses a gasket, sleeves, and washers that are designed not to damage the integrity of the seal. Most pipelines depend on industrial flange tool kits Alberta from AMW Industrial Services for quality components.
The pipeline is made of metal sections that are joined together. Therefore, the isolation of the flanges becomes necessary. If not properly isolated, these metals would be conduits for undesired electricity to flow through.
Galvanic corrosion is the reaction of one metal with another metal to cause corrosion.
This results in deterioration of the pipeline, possible leaks, and high-cost repairs. The required flange connections are isolated to prevent the flow of unwanted electricity. Therefore, the flanges are made a mandatory part of the isolation procedure.
Common mistakes include wrong bolt tightening order, wrong gasket type, dirty surfaces, and flanges not lined up right. AMW Industrial Services helps stop these mistakes with ready-made isolation kits that have matching, tested parts, making the job easier and safer every time.
Incorrect Bolt Pattern
The improper bolt tightening sequence is the cause of the uneven pressure and leakage in the pipeline, not the proper bolting pattern.
Wrong Type of Gasket
The wrong heat or pressure will cause the wrong material of the gasket and quick wear and loss of function.
Surfaces Contaminated
There are contaminants on the flange face such as dirt, rust, and old material which prevent a good seal.
Misaligned Flanges
Flanges that are not aligned are assembled with more stress on the gasket, which causes it to crack and leak.
Mixing of the components
The purchased components from different manufacturers do not fit each other most of the time and cause poor sealing.
During the installation of the isolation kit, the flange caddy by AMW Industrial Services is very useful in the flange isolation process as it secures the flange in position and provides adequate support.
While installing the flange manually, the workers may need to lift up the heavy flanges or hold them up to position them.
It provides the strength and adjustability needed to make sure that the flange faces are straight and evenly positioned. This is very important as any misalignment will damage the gaskets, sleeves, or washers and weaken the seal.
The flange is held tightly so workers can more easily keep to the correct tightening order of the bolts. Thus, the errors are minimal, and there is less risk of damaging the better isolation joint components.
Flange isolation is important for the protection of the pipeline from corrosionc. But even the slightest installation error can lead to major problems down the road.
A prepped flange caddy and isolation kit can go a long way to making this process easy, accurate and secure. Contact us and rent our flange caddy toolkit at AMW Industrial Services in Alberta today. Because we want you to get your installation done the right way!
Leakage is caused by wrong tightening of bolts, a dirty surface, or misalignment of flanges. A close inspection will tell you exactly why.
Position the flange caddy beneath the flange to support the weight of the flange. Make sure the flange faces are aligned to align the caddy. Fit the gasket, and then start bolting.
The best brand will depend upon your pipeline requirements and safety regulations. AMW Industrial Services can assist you in selecting a trusted and proven toolkit.
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