Incoloy 800HT is a high-temperature alloy used in various industries. It is particularly popular for manufacturing flanges thanks to its high resistance to oxidation and excellent strength at elevated temperatures. While the material is highly durable and reliable, improper installation can lead to leaks, corrosion, and other issues that can compromise the performance of an entire system. This blog provides essential tips for properly installing Incoloy 800HT flanges to ensure optimal performance.
What is Incoloy 800HT Flanges?
Incoloy 800HT Flanges are a type of metal flange used in industrial and engineering applications. They provide a great sealing surface, superior strength and corrosion resistance at elevated temperatures. These features allow for versatile use in industries dealing with corrosive environments, such as oil refineries, petrochemical plants, chemical processing operations and power plants.
Incoloy 800HT is an iron-nickel-chromium alloy developed by Special Metals Corporation with higher carbon, aluminium and titanium levels than standard Incoloy 800 alloy. It offers excellent resistance to oxidation, carburization and sulfur attack at temperatures up to 1300°F (704°C). The addition of titanium stabilizes the material allowing for use in temperature settings above 2000°F (1093 °C) without creating sensitization that occurs when using conventional stainless steel materials. This makes it perfect for severe heat applications like exhaust manifolds or high-pressure steam systems exposed to harsh chemicals. Its unique properties also make it suitable for oil refining operations where extreme pressures can be encountered while handling highly corrosive hydrocarbons or crude oils.
How to Properly Install Incoloy 800HT Flanges
Use the Right Gasket:
When installing Incoloy 800HT flanges, the gasket is critical in ensuring a tight seal. Selecting the right type of gasket that can withstand high temperatures and pressure is crucial. Compressed sheets or graphite gaskets are best suited for high-temperature applications. Avoid using low-quality gaskets made from low-density materials, as they lose their properties due to thermal cycling. Go for high-quality gaskets that are explicitly designed for high-temperature applications.
Pre-Installation Preparation:
Before installing Incoloy 800HT flanges, it’s important to prepare the installation site. Remove any debris, dirt, or grease undermining the flange’s sealing capabilities. Clean the area, including the adjoining pipes, to remove all traces of contamination. Ensuring the flange’s mating surfaces are clean and flat will enhance proper sealing, thus preventing possible leaks.
Tighten the Bolts Correctly:
Proper bolt tension is critical to ensure the reliability of the Incoloy 800HT flange assembly. However, over-tightening or under-tightening can cause significant problems like flange damage, bolt breakage, or gasket crushing, leading to leaks. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for the recommended torque settings for your specific application. Additionally, installing the bolts correctly and evenly is essential to ensure proper load distribution across the gasket.
Flange Alignment:
Proper alignment of Incoloy 800HT flanges is crucial to prevent strain on the bolts, which can lead to flange distortion or bolt failure. Uneven alignment can also cause gasket crushing or leaks. Carefully align the flange during installation to prevent unnecessary strain on the adjacent equipment.
Post-Installation Inspection:
After installing Incoloy 800HT flanges, it’s essential to conduct a thorough inspection to ensure everything is in order. Check for any visible signs of damage, cracks, leaks, gasket extrusion, or other issues that may compromise the flange’s performance. Inspect the bolts and ensure they’re tightened to the recommended torque settings.
Conclusion
In conclusion, properly installing Incoloy 800HT flanges ensures optimal performance, safety, and reliability. Follow the tips mentioned above, including using the right gasket, pre-installation preparation, correct bolt tension, proper flange alignment and post-installation inspection for a durable and effective installation. Doing so can prevent costly system failures and equipment downtime due to flange leaks or damage. Contact a professional manufacturer or supplier to help you get suitable Incoloy 800HT flanges for your application.
