| 20/02/2008 | <<Back to News |
| New Cast Blind Flanges | |
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| New cast design - - - - - - - - Traditional flat plate design | |
| As part of Fort Vales continuous improvement programme we have reviewed the design of the most commonly used blind flanges utilized in the tank container industry. From the results of our study we have been able to significantly increase the rigidity of the flange without affecting the overall height of the bolted flange assembly. |
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| The result from Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and subsequent strain gauge proof testing clearly show a reduction in stress induced in the flanges. In the strain gauge testing the strain induced in the new cast design was less than 50% of the strain in the traditional flat plate design. As can be seen below the analysis results for the 2 designs of blind flanges are shown, the analysis was conducted with identical loading and constraint configurations, the most highly stressed areas are shown in red. The advantages of the lower stress design are less flange distortion under bolting which results in improved gasket seating subsequently reducing the risk of leakage. The new flanges have the following key features The unique bolt load disseminating geometry reduces flange distortion resulting in improved long term sealing. Fully machined internal surfaces. 100% proof tested prior to dispatch. Permanently cast text with MAWP part number and recommended torque. Integral inner dome allowing clearance for butterfly valve closure plate or ball valve ball. Manufactured from stainless steel CF8M (316 STST) material. Over 50% reduction in permanent strain from over bolting. Serrated raised face for reliable sealing. Flange geometry design to allow the use of a socket, ring spanner or open ended spanner. |
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