Performance of a Gasketed Bolted Flange Joint Under Combined Structural and Thermal Transient Loading (Taking Bolt Scatter Into Consideration): FEA Approach

Performance of a bolted flange joint is characterized mainly by its ‘strength’ and ‘sealing capability’. The weakest part of a high temperature and pressure envelope is the gasket in bolted flange joints, as these are prone to leakage. It causes loss of productivity and in severe cases, loss of lives. There is a need to evaluate the sealing performance of a gasketed bolted flange joint (GBFJ) under combined structural and thermal transient loadings as these occur in industrial applications. In this paper using complete 3D Finite Element Model, the joint’s performance is studied during bolt up and operating (combined structural and thermal transient loading) condition. During bolt up, bolts are tightened as per ASME bolt up strategy and any bolt scatter and its effect during applied operating conditions is discussed.