A study on the sealing performance of flange joints with gaskets under external bending using finite-element analysis

Abstract

The effect of external bending on flange joints in pipelines, pressure vessels, and pressure vessel nozzles is significant and difficult to assess. In the current work, the sealing performance of a gasketed flange joint under external bending has been studied by using a three-dimensional finite element analysis, considering the non-linear material behaviour of the gaskets. Spiral wound gaskets and non-metallic gaskets with various sealing materials are considered. Results show that the allowable bending moment on a flange joint depends on the tightness required, type of gasket, and its deformation characteristics. Gaskets with elastomeric sealing materials show good performance against leakage under external bending.

Keywords

flange joint bending load gasket finite-element analysis

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