When using stainless steel flanges, it is essential to ensure that the flange connection surfaces are clean, avoiding any oil, rust, or other impurities that may affect the sealing effectiveness. Before installation, carefully inspect the sealing surfaces of the flanges to ensure they are intact, free from cracks or any damage. This step is crucial, as even minor defects can lead to leaks, which can compromise the safety and efficiency of the entire system.
Choosing the appropriate bolts and nuts is another key point. They must match the specifications of the flanges and ensure that the fastening force is evenly distributed to avoid localized stress concentrations. During the tightening process, special care should be taken not to over-tighten, as excessive force may damage the sealing surfaces of the flanges, leading to sealing failure.
When connecting flanges, it is imperative to ensure the alignment of the pipes to reduce eccentricity, thereby avoiding unnecessary stress and potential leak points. Using dedicated gaskets is also critical for ensuring sealing effectiveness; the material and size of the gaskets must comply with the specifications and working conditions of the flanges. During installation, avoid using hard objects to strike the flanges to prevent irreversible damage.
After installation, conducting a pressure test is an important step in verifying the quality of the flange connection. By performing a pressure test, you can ensure that there are no leaks at the connection points and that the entire system is in a safe and reliable state. Additionally, regularly checking the sealing condition of the flange connections is part of maintenance work; timely replacement of any damaged seals can prevent potential leak risks.
Finally, following relevant industry standards and regulations for installation and maintenance is the foundation for ensuring the long-term stable operation of stainless steel flanges. These standards and regulations are based on extensive research and practical experience, guiding users in the correct use and maintenance of flanges, thereby ensuring the safety and efficiency of the entire system.
