It is vital that the flange joints in refineries offer sufficient strength for the transfer of crude oil, fuels, gas, and other media within the process. Bolt tightness plays an important role in ensuring the required joint strength.
How Hydraulic Torque Wrenches Work
Table of Contents
A hydraulic torque wrench works on hydraulic pressure that is used to generate torque for tightening the nuts. Pressure will be generated by the hydraulic pump, while the torque will be applied as per the conversion table of pressure to torque.
Square drive wrenches have been developed with quality houses and consist of three main parts. The PXD range of wrenches is made up of high-strength AISI 4340 alloy steel.
Why Refineries Use Hydraulic Torque Wrenches for Flange Bolting
In a flanged joint, there are always several bolts which need to be tightened evenly. If the bolts are not tightened evenly, there may be uneven compression of the gasket, hence increasing the chances of leakage. A hydraulic torque wrench is used by the operators to apply the required torque as per the recommended tightening procedure.
This type of tool can be used for flange bolting in various refining operations such as:
- Pipeline flanges: Torquing bolts in the pipeline carrying process fluids.
- Heat exchangers: Torquing flange bolts when checking and maintaining.
- Pumps and process machinery: Torquing high-torque bolts in industrial machines.
Key Benefits of Hydraulic Torque Wrenches
Use of an appropriate hydraulic torque wrench presents the following practical benefits for the refinery maintenance crew:
- Torque control: Helps apply torque to the specified level.
- Ease of access in confined spaces: Low-clearance tools will be able to access the fasteners in places where bigger tools cannot reach.
- Manual power saving: Hydraulics provide an advantage in using a high amount of torque without having to use a large lever arm manually.
- Performance consistency: Correct settings and tightening procedures will assist in achieving consistency.
Torque alone is not responsible for the creation of a certain amount of bolt preload.
What Should Teams Check Before Bolting a Flange?
Before the job commences, it is imperative to check that the torque value, fastener specifications, sockets, and clearance are appropriate. Also, it is necessary to ensure that the wrench, pump, and hoses are suitable for the pressure needed in performing the job.
Following the sequence of bolting as directed, it ensures that the load distribution is even on the flange.
Conclusion
The task of tightening flange bolts is an important one in refinery maintenance work. The correct hydraulic torque wrench allows the technician to apply the torque necessary per specification and protocol.
There are bolted connection products like square drive hydraulic wrenches, low clearance hydraulic wrenches, power packs, and accessories available from hydraulic wrench manufacturers like Bolting Systems for industrial bolting applications. There are factors which a purchaser needs to consider when selecting a hydraulic wrench manufacturer for refinery use.
Author
