Essential Flange Spreader Tools for Industrial Applications
Every specialist working in industrial maintenance and repair knows that having the right tools can make all the difference. When it comes to flanges in particular, a reliable flange spreader tool is an absolute must-have. These versatile tools are designed to create a gap between two flanges, making it easier for technicians to access and repair various components.
Let’s explore various essential flange spreader tools from ALLTORC, and how they can benefit various industrial applications.
What Is a Flange Spreader Tool?
A flange spreader tool, also known as a flange spreading tool or a flange alignment tool, is a specialized device that creates a gap between two flanges. This gap allows technicians to reach the flange faces, gaskets, and bolts for maintenance, repair, and replacement tasks. Flange spreaders come in various types, including mechanical, hydraulic, and wedge-style designs, each suited for specific applications and flange sizes.
Why Are Flange Spreader Tools Important?
Flange spreader tools play a crucial role in industrial maintenance and repair operations. They offer several key benefits:
- Improved access – Spreader tools make maintenance and repair tasks more efficient by giving technicians better access.
- Increased safety – Technicians don’t have to improvise methods to separate flanges, such as using pry bars or wedges. These methods can be dangerous and cause damage to the flanges.
- Time and cost savings – With the right flange spreader tool, technicians can complete maintenance tasks faster. This reduces downtime and associated costs.
- Versatility – Flange spreaders are designed to work with a wide range of flange sizes and types, making them a versatile addition to any industrial maintenance toolkit.
What Flange Spreader Tools Are Available?
Mechanical Flange Spreaders
Mechanical flange spreaders, such as the FSW9 model, are designed for ease of use and high performance in industrial settings. With the ability to fit into flange joint access gaps as small as 6mm (0.24”), the FSW9 delivers up to 94kN (9.4 tons) of spreading force when used individually. For larger applications, using two tools in tandem can generate a powerful 188kN (18.8 tons) of force, providing the strength necessary to separate even the most tightly joined flanges.
Built for durability and efficiency, the FSW9 can create a gap of up to 81mm (3.19”) between flange faces, making it ideal for gasket replacement, seal ring installation, and various flange maintenance tasks. Despite its impressive force output, the tool weighs just 5.5kg (12.1 lbs), offering portability and ease of handling. The kit, including all necessary components like a torque wrench and stepped blocks, is conveniently stored in a molded case, ensuring safe transport and minimal maintenance.
Hydraulic Flange Spreaders
ALLTORC offers a range of hydraulic flange spreaders for larger flange sizes and more demanding applications:
FSW17D – Flange Spreading Wedge Twin Tool Kit
The FSW17D kit includes two flange spreading wedges, capable of generating up to 32.6 tons of force when used together. With a minimum access gap of 6mm (0.24”) and a maximum spreading distance of 81mm (3.19”), this kit is ideal for tasks like gasket replacement and flange maintenance. The tools come with stepped blocks and a molded carry case for easy transportation and storage, ensuring durability and low maintenance over time.
FSW17K Flange Spreading Wedge
This single-tool flange spreader is powered by a 10,000 PSI hydraulic pump, capable of entering flange joints as small as 6mm (0.24”) and generating up to 16.3 tons of force (32.6 tons when used in pairs). It features high durability and low maintenance requirements, making it ideal for various industrial applications. The tool is 100% load/pressure tested and certified for safety and reliability.
FSW17M Flange Spreading Wedge Twin Tool & Pump Kit
This kit includes two FSW17 hydraulic flange wedges powered by a 10,000 PSI pump, designed to generate up to 32.6 tons of force when used in tandem. It can spread flange gaps from 6mm (0.24”) to 81mm (3.19”) with stepped blocks. The FSW17M also comes equipped with hydraulic hoses, pressure gauges, and safety accessories, all stored in a robust molded case for convenient transport and secure storage.
FSW17P Flange Spreader with Integrated Pump
The FSW17P features an integrated 10,000 PSI pump, allowing it to generate up to 32.6 tons of force when used in pairs. It can enter flange gaps as small as 6mm (0.24”) and spread up to 81mm (3.19”), making it ideal for heavy-duty maintenance tasks. This spreader is highly durable and includes a safety lanyard, stepped blocks, and a molded carry case for easy handling and transport.
Flange Alignment Tools
In addition to our flange spreader tools, ALLTORC also offers a selection of flange alignment tools. These tools are designed to help align flanges during installation or reassembly, ensuring a proper fit and seal. Our flange alignment tools are available in various sizes and configurations to suit a wide range of flange types and applications.
What Industries Can Benefit from Flange Spreader Tools?
Flange spreader tools are essential for a multitude of industries that rely on pipelines, valves, and other flanged components. Some of the key sectors that can benefit from these tools include:
- Oil and gas – Flange spreaders are used for maintenance, repair, and replacement of flanged components in pipelines, valves, and other equipment.
- Power generation – In power plants, flange spreader tools are essential for maintaining and repairing steam lines, heat exchangers, and other critical components.
- Chemical processing – Chemical processing facilities rely on flange spreaders for maintaining and repairing pipelines, reactors, and other equipment that utilizes flanged connections.
- Water and wastewater – Flange spreader tools are crucial for maintaining and repairing pipelines, valves, and pumps in water and wastewater treatment plants.
- Aerospace – In the aerospace industry, flange spreaders are used for maintaining and repairing fuel lines, hydraulic systems, and other critical components.
How Do You Choose the Right Flange Spreader Tool?
When selecting a flange spreader tool, there are several key factors to consider:
- Flange size and type – Choose a spreader tool that is compatible with the size and type of flanges you’ll be working with.
- Required spreading force – Consider the amount of spreading force needed for your application and choose a tool that can generate the appropriate force safely.
- Portability – If you’ll be using the tool in various locations, consider a lightweight and portable option like a mechanical flange spreader.
- Durability – Look for tools that are built to withstand the demands of your industry, with solid construction and high-quality materials.
- Ease of use – Choose a tool that is easy to operate, with features like multi-thickness safety chocks and parallel wedge pins for added safety and convenience.
Getting the Most from Flange Spreading Tools
Flange spreader tools are an essential part of any industrial maintenance and repair toolkit. By providing improved access, increased safety, and time and cost savings, these tools help keep critical infrastructure and equipment running smoothly.
The ALLTORC Advantage
At ALLTORC, we’re committed to providing our customers with the highest quality flange spreader tools and exceptional service. Our tools are designed and manufactured to the most stringent standards, ensuring reliable performance and long service life. We offer a wide range of flange spreader tools to suit various applications and budgets, and our knowledgeable staff is always ready to help you select the right tool for your needs.
With our commitment to quality, reliability, and customer service, you can trust ALLTORC to provide the right tools for your most demanding applications. Contact us today with any queries.