Common Applications for Flange Spreaders

As their name suggests, flange spreaders are special tools that separate joined-together flanges.

Typical applications for flange spreaders include separating flanges in the oil and gas, power generation, and chemical industries. Their primary use cases are to open and close valves, spread pipe flanges and separate exhaust systems from engines.

These tools provide a safe, efficient way to open and close flanges quickly without damaging components within a piping system or industrial assembly. Since flange spreaders come in various sizes and materials, they're suitable for multiple applications. They are an essential tool for many industrial and construction projects, as well as maintenance and repair work.

We're going to walk through some of the most common applications that demand the use of flange spreaders and look at how your business can source high-quality flange spreaders and other bolting solutions from experienced providers such as Aztec Bolting Services.

Common Applications Demanding the Use of Flange Spreaders

Operators use flange spreaders commonly in construction, manufacturing, and chemical processing, among other industries. These tools are designed to evenly spread apart flanges on pipes, valves, and other equipment to prevent leaks or facilitate repairs.

Depending on the industry and specific assemblies being worked on, operators can also use them to separate pipe sections for removal or maintenance. They come in various sizes, making them adjustable for different flange thicknesses.

We'll dive into some of the most common applications for flange spreaders today, including new flange installations, removals of existing flanges, flange maintenance, and leak repair.

Installation of New Flanges

Flange spreaders and equalizer tools are great instruments for making the installation of new flanges easier and faster across the board. They can open up gaps between two flanges, allowing for a proper seal when installing flat face, raised face, and RTJ flanges.

Flange installation is essential in the building process and should consistently be performed accurately, precisely, and to specifications. Flange spreaders provide a simple and effective way to ensure appropriately sealed connections, increasing the longevity of pipe assemblies.

Removal of Existing Flanges

Flange spreaders deliver an effective solution for the removal of existing flanges. By widening the gap between any two flanges, this tool allows more accessible access to the bolts and nuts that are securing them in place to remove them safely.

This is a much safer and more efficient alternative to traditional methods such as chisels or hammers, making flange spreaders an invaluable tool for removing existing flanges.

Maintenance of Existing Flanges

When maintaining existing flanges, flange spreaders are a critical tool. By using flange spreaders, technicians can gain more accessible access to piping assemblies and underlying components when inspecting or replacing gaskets or other parts within a pipeline system.

This allows for more efficient maintenance of existing seals and can even help extend these seals' lifespan. As part of a sound maintenance strategy, flange spreaders should be considered a necessary tool to ensure that pipelines function optimally and safely.

Leak Repair

When a leak occurs in a pipeline, flange spreaders create a seal and stop the flow of oil, gas, or other transported fluids.

These tools are designed to expand the flange around the leak, creating a tight seal that is both safe and secure. By using well-maintained flange spreaders, companies can quickly and effectively repair the leak without removing the flange from the pipeline altogether. Flange spreaders are an indispensable part of any leak repair process regarding piping assemblies.

Source High-Quality Flange Spreaders and Bolting Solutions from Aztec Bolting

Aztec Bolting is a leading provider of flange spreaders and other bolting solutions to businesses, manufacturers, builders, and various industries.

With over 30 years of experience in the bolting industry, we offer a wide range of products to meet the needs of our customers. Our product line includes flange spreaders, tensioners, torque wrenches, and more, specializing in specifically bolting and piping equipment. We always take pride in our commitment to customer service and strive to provide the highest quality products available at competitive prices.

If you're looking for flange spreaders or other bolting tools, contact our team at Aztec Bolting Services today for a free quote and to learn more about our products and services.