Flange Spreaders
Take the hassle out of gasket and valve swap-outs by using the proper flange spreader. When used in conjunction, you can have up to 50,000 lbs of force spreading your flange apart by the simple actuation of a pump. No longer deal with getting banana wedges stuck inside flanges or spending hours, if not days trying to get a flange in a vault to move.
We offer a wide range of RENQUIP, made in Scotland, self-integrated flange spreaders along with individual sets and dual sets that come with hose and pump.
Types of Hydraulic/Manual Flange Spreaders
There are two main types of flange spreaders available:
Wedge Spreaders: The most common style, these feature wedge-shaped noses that insert into gaps in the flange to push the sides apart. Wedge spreaders require existing space between flanges for the wedges to enter.
No-Gap Spreaders: For tightly sealed flanges, no-gap spreaders utilize collets that grab onto the bolt holes to provide enough force to initially separate the flanges. These are specially designed for each flange size.
Within these types there exist models with ranges of force capacity, size fits, and portability:
- Lightweight Models: Some flange spreaders prioritize easy handling with smaller hydraulic pumps suited for minimal separation gaps.
- High-Force Models: Heavy duty flange spreaders produce upward of 50,000 lbs of spreading force for the most stubborn flanges.
- One-Size or Multi-Size: Certain wedge spreaders come in a single size while other kits allow changing wedges to accommodate many flange sizes.
Why Use a Hydraulic/Manual Flange Spreader?
Flange spreaders provide major advantages over manual flange spreading methods:
Safety: Applying thousands of pounds of force allows flanges to be separated without unsafe use of hammers, wedges, and brute manual force.
Speed: Simple pumping action generates enough power to spread flanges wide in minutes, avoiding hours of laborous and ineffective manual wedging.
Effortless: Once positioned, the hydraulic pump does all the work, taking the strain and difficulty out of flange maintenance.
Precise Control: Spreading force can be carefully regulated to create the exact size gap necessary.
Versatile: Flange spreaders handle valve swap-outs, gasket replacements, tight spots, and more.
Choosing the Right Flange Spreader For Your Job
When selecting a flange spreader, consider these key factors:
- Application: Will a wedge or no-gap style model be needed? What flange sizes need accommodation?
- Force: Determine how much spreading force your flanges require.
- Frequency of Use: Opt for durability if used regularly. Lightweights suit occasional needs.
- Portability: The ease of pumping and carrying the spreader around your worksite.
At Alltorc, we offer our own line of high-quality hydraulic flange spreaders and flange alignment tools designed specifically for valve maintenance applications. View our product range of flange spreaders below:
