Session: CT-01-01 The James R. Payne Memorial Session on Design and Analysis of Bolted Flange Joints - 1

Paper Number: 180001

180001 - Performance Evaluation of Recovery-Type Gaskets Under Thermal Cycling Conditions 

Abstract: 

In industrial piping and heat-exchanger systems, ensuring the sealing integrity of bolted flange joints at elevated temperatures is essential to prevent leakage, minimize fugitive emissions, and avoid unplanned shutdowns that can compromise process efficiency and safety. Recovery-type gaskets are specifically engineered to maintain tightness and restore sealing stress despite flange movements resulting from thermal cycling, pressure variations, and creep relaxation. To assess their effectiveness, different recovery-type gasket configurations were tested and compared with conventional ASME B16.20 gaskets. The evaluation utilized a dedicated test rig composed of 4-inch, Class 300, ASME B16.5 raised face welded neck flanges assembled with ASTM A193 Grade B16 studs and instrumented with heating elements and precision pressure transducers. During testing, gaskets were exposed to multiple temperature cycles while continuously monitoring internal pressure decay without bolt retightening. This controlled and repeatable methodology establishes clear pressure loss endpoints and quantifiable acceptance criteria, enabling a consistent evaluation of sealing performance. The results provide valuable insights into the recovery characteristics of these gaskets, comparing their ability to sustain joint integrity, minimize fugitive emissions, and enhance the long-term reliability of temperature cycling services typical of demanding industrial operations.

Keywords: Recovery Gasket, Thermal Cycling, Sealability, Heat Exchangers, High Temperature, Creep, Seals, 

Presenting Author: Carlos D. Girão Teadit

Presenting Author Biography: Carlos D. Girão is a Professional Mechanical Engineer with a Master of Science from the State University of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Senior executive with leadership roles in the Americas, Europe, and India, he has been in the Fluid Sealing Industry for the past eighteen years. Mr. Girão has published several papers, patents and championed studies for standard setting organizations and conferences. He currently holds the position of Technical Director for the Teadit Group.

Authors:

Carlos D. Girão Teadit
Leonardo Roca Teadit Brazil
Igor Meira Teadit Brazil
Dale Norman Teadit North America