Detailed Steps And Notes for Replacing Flange Gaskets
1. Preliminary preparations
Before starting to replace the flange gasket, we need to ensure that we have made sufficient preparations. Before replacing the flange gasket, wear appropriate labor protection equipment such as gloves, goggles, etc. to ensure safety and protection during the operation. These preparations include understanding relevant safety regulations, preparing necessary tools and equipment, and ensuring the safety and cleanliness of the work area. Through sufficient preparation, we can complete the replacement of flange gaskets more efficiently and safely.
◆ Wear labor protection equipment
The primary task before starting to replace the flange gasket is to ensure that we are wearing labor protection equipment correctly and comprehensively. This includes choosing appropriate clothing, gloves, goggles, etc. to ensure adequate protection during operation and avoid accidental injuries.
◆ Preparations of equipment and tools
Before starting to replace the flange gasket, we need to ensure that the necessary equipment and tools are ready. Thoroughly inspect the status and integrity of equipment and tools to ensure unobstructed operation and improve work efficiency. This includes checking whether the equipment is in good condition and whether the tools are complete to ensure smooth operation and improve work efficiency.
2. Operation steps
After ensuring that the equipment and tools are ready, we need to have a detailed understanding of the operational steps. This will help us complete the replacement of flange gaskets in a more orderly and efficient manner.
◆ Measurement and Inspection
Use a ruler and a scratch gauge to measure the sealing surface of the flange and check for damage to the asbestos gasket. Use a ruler to carefully measure the inner and outer diameters of the flange sealing surface on the flange gate or single piece flange. Gently wipe the surface of the asbestos gasket while carefully inspecting for cracks or defects.
◆ Gasket cutting
Measure the required length on a steel ruler using a scratch gauge and ensure that the locking nut of the scratch gauge is tightened. Align the marking with the center of the asbestos gasket, mark the inner and outer circles of the flange gasket, and mark the position of the handle at the same time. Use a curved clipper to cut the flange gasket according to the marked line and keep the handle position. Carefully cut the flange gasket along the drawn line using a bending cutter, and ensure that the handle is reserved in the appropriate position.
◆ Valve operation
Open and close relevant valves, release pipeline pressure, and prepare for gasket replacement. Review the process and confirm the direction of fluid flow in the pipeline. Tilt your body and open the connecting valve. Close the upstream valve. Close the downstream valve. Open the vent valve to release the pressure and residual fluid in the pipeline.
◆ Bolt and gasket replacement
Loosen the flange bolts, remove the old gasket, clean the end face and install a new gasket, and tighten evenly. Using an adjustable wrench, first loosen the fastening bolts at the bottom of the outer flange, and then loosen the remaining three bolts one by one. There is no need to completely remove them, just remove the bolt facing you. Using a pry bar, gently pry the flange to remove the old gasket. Use a steel saw blade to carefully scrape off impurities on the flange end face and thoroughly clean it. Apply lubricating grease evenly on the new gasket. Use a pry bar to gently pry the flange surface in order to replace the new gasket. When tightening flange bolts, it is necessary to perform diagonal tightening and maintain uniform force. Ensure that the gap width around the flange remains uniform.
◆ Final inspection and cleaning
Ensure no leakage, open the valve and clean the work site. Tilt and close the vent valve. Carefully open the downstream valve and perform a pressure test with 1 to 2 strokes. After confirming that there is no leakage, fully open the downstream valve, simultaneously open the upstream valve, and close the connecting valve. Clean up the site and collect tools.
