Maintenance on a 52" Flange - Spreading & Alignment

The Task: This customer contracts Service companies for the Installation/Alignment/Bolting of 52” Flange connected to Reactor Head
Problem
-Alignment Currently done with Bull Pins and come alongs.
-Very time consuming, requires many operators, dangerous to force pins by Striking.
-Lateral and Rotational misalignment of the 52” Flange causes extended down time along the critical path
-Bolts do not screw in properly due to Rotational Misalignment.
-Forcing the Flange into Alignment with traditional methods can lead to damaging Gaskets which will lead to Leaks and rework.

ESI's Solution:
The use of two (FA4TM) Alignment tools with a capacity of 4 tons each to bring the 52” Flange back into Alignment with recommended Equalizer procedures. The use of Wedge Spreaders (SWi2025TE Maxi Kit) for the Spreading of the 52” Flange in a controlled manner and reducing the exposure of personnel. The use of the Equalizer Flange Spreaders and Alignment tools for the Maintenance of the 52” Flange above the Reactor lid will significantly reduce the down time of the Reactor that is done every six months.

Result: Job successfully completed. Significant reduction in time. Satisfied customer. Read for your self below:

From BIC Alliance Magazine - August 2015 - page 59
“I tried using cam pens to align the flange with limited success,” said Mr. Carr, maintenance manager, “Equalizer agreed to do an evaluation during a gauze change on a reactor with us. The company providing bolting services for us used the Equalizer tool. Equalizer Americas provided training and assisted in the performance evaluation.

“The company’s safety performance on the project was excellent.”
— Mr Carr
“On one occasion prior to using the alignment tool, this flange was severely misaligned. Due to the configuration of the pipe and other obstacles, it had taken over eight hours of pull and tug to bring the flanges in alignment. When the Equalizer tool was demonstrated, it took less than 20 minutes! No other alignment tool looks to have the capability and versatility.”
Not only does Equalizer offer a range of patented flange alignment tools that are often unmatched in versatility, but it also exemplifies a strong commitment to safety.

“The company’s safety performance on the project was excellent,” stated Carr. “There were no safety problems. Equalizer worked with us and went on-site during our shutdown. I plan on using the company again. I will be making additional purchases from them.”