Bolting B8 Class 1 and 2 Use
Bolting B8 Class 1 and 2 Use
Bolting B8 Class 1 and 2 Use
Sealing Sense
What factors should be considered for stainless steel fasteners
in bolted flanged connections?
This month’s “Sealing Sense” was prepared by FSA member Joel Baulch.
I
n a bolted flanged connection using a sealing device, it when closely matching coefficients of expansion of flange and
is most important to understand that adequate loading bolting preclude the use of typical low alloy grades, stainless
must be realized to meet minimal seating requirements steel grades are often employed.
for the design. The July 2010 “Sealing Sense” discussed the Austenitic stainless steels are characterized as having
primary considerations for fastener systems employed in a excellent corrosion resistance properties.
bolted flange assembly, including those for stainless steel. The design of a bolted flange connection entails numer-
With a gasketed assembly, the ratio of the compressive ous considerations, too many to include in this article.
force to the sealing area must meet or
exceed the stress required to generate Table 1. Mechanical properties
an effective seal. Bolt Grade Bolt Grade Size, in. (mm) Tensile Yield Strength, Hardness,
The use of higher strength stain- Class Strength, ksi min, 0.2% offset, max
(Mpa) ksi (Mpa)
less steel bolts is often required to
allow for a greater targeted pre-stress Class 1 and 1D B8, B8M, all diameters 75 (515) 30 (205) 223 HB or
B8P, B8LN, 96 HRB*
and/or to meet chemical resistance, B8MLN
temperature or flange compatibility B8C, B8T
requirements. Class 2 B8, B8P, 3/4 and under 125 (860) 100 (690) 321 HB or
This higher targeted load should B8N, B8C, (M20 and under) 35 HRC
take into account the relaxation of the B8T
over 3/4 to 1, incl 115 (795) 80 (550)
assembly, including that of the gasket. (over M20 to M24,
incl)
strength properties, especially when significant assembly load is • Reduce the installation speed so less heat is generated and
required to generate the required gasket stress. the potential of cold welding is reduced.
• Select a coarse thread instead of a fine thread.
Effect of Elevated Temperatures on A193/
A193M Stainless Bolting Summary
Thermal effects can change the stability of the initial clamp load When stainless steel fasteners are the conclusive choice for a
significantly. bolted flanged connection, ensuring that the grade is appropri-
After a pre-stress is applied to a fastener and the service ate for the service conditions is important.
is brought up to an elevated operating temperature, the bolt An adequate load must be delivered to effectively generate
could move within its creep range and elongate further, causing a seal. Select a grade and class that can maintain higher yield
a reduction in load. ASTM A453 Grade 660 bolts are a good strength at operating temperature.
option in applications where corrosion resistance, higher yield Properly lubricate and install the fasteners carefully so that
strength potential and retention of yield strength at elevated galling of the threads is prevented.
temperatures are all important.
Next Month: Why do I need to complete an application
Preventing Galling questionnaire?
Thread galling can be a problem with stainless steel fasteners
if not properly addressed. Oxide build up between the threads
can lead to fusion of the mating pieces (Figure 1) and prevent We invite your questions on sealing issues and will provide best
torque transfer to the assembly. effort answers based on FSA publications. Please direct your ques-
Galling can be prevented using three commonly- tions to: [email protected].
chosen strategies: P&S
• Use the proper lubricant on the mating threaded parts.
on
@PumpsSystemsMag
and at The combination of Nord-Lock and Superbolt and cost-effective bolting solutions. Trust your
is unique in the bolt securing industry. critical applications to the bolting experts.