Proper pre-installation preparation is the most critical step to eliminate field leakage for RTJ gasket connections. Even tiny defects or contamination on flange grooves can damage the precision metal sealing surface and cause service failure.
1. Flange Groove Cleaning
Clean the entire flange groove thoroughly with a lint-free, non-abrasive cloth to remove all dirt, rust, scale, and residual old gasket fragments. Apply qualified solvent for complete degreasing and ensure the groove is fully dry before installation.
No foreign particles of any size should remain inside the groove. During bolt tightening, residual debris will embed into the metal gasket surface, creating permanent sealing defects and eventual leakage.
Note: Never use harsh abrasive tools or wire brushes, as they will scratch the precision groove finish and ruin sealing flatness.
2. Flange Groove Visual & Surface Inspection
Carefully inspect groove side walls and the entire sealing area for scratches, gouges, indentations, and corrosion pits. Any visible abnormal surface defects require professional reconditioning. Flanges with irreparable groove damage must be replaced to avoid sealing failure.
Verify the flange groove surface finish meets standard industrial roughness requirements. A qualified smooth and uniform surface texture is essential for tight metal-to-metal sealing.
3. Gasket Matching & Hardness Verification
Confirm the gasket R-number fully matches the flange groove specification. A qualified RTJ gasket should fit freely into the groove without forcing or jamming.
For standard octagonal RTJ gaskets, the gasket sits slightly above the flange face. For oval-style RTJ gaskets, the height remains nearly flush with the flange surface.
Always follow the core industry hardness rule: the RTJ gasket must be noticeably softer than the mating flange groove. This ensures controlled gasket deformation while protecting the expensive flange from permanent damage during compression.
There are many types of RTJ gaskets, including R Gasket,RX Gasket,BX Gasket, SBX Gasket,IX Gasket,flange connections,and various customized products.We will do more sharing about ring joint gasket.
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