Flange Spreader Insights

We offer a full line of innovative tools designed for making flange maintenance safer and easier. When considering a flange spreader for your application, precision and safety are paramount. Let’s review what factors you need to know.

How to Choose the Right Flange Spreader

Remember, accuracy matters. Choosing the right flange spreader ensures efficient and safe maintenance or installation.

Applications

Application Include but not limited to…

Flange facing: Resurfacing flange faces for maintenance purposes.

Pipeline maintenance and construction: For spreading pipe flanges during repair or replacement of gaskets and valves.

Pressure vessel servicing: Accessing the internals of pressure vessels for maintenance or modification.

Power plant operations: Maintenance and repair of various equipment within power plants.

Offshore platforms: Performing maintenance tasks on flanged connections in offshore oil and gas operations.

Compact Flanges: Flange Spreaders which use the bolt holes to spread a joint.

Know Your Specifications

Flange Type: Identify the type of flange you’re working with (e.g., raised face, flat face, ring joint). Different flanges require specific spreader designs.

Flange Size: Measure the flange diameter accurately. This ensures compatibility with your spreader.

Pressure Class: Understand the pressure rating of your flange. Choose a spreader that can handle the required pressure.

Gather Information

Supervisor Records: If available, consult any existing records your supervisor may have. They might contain essential details about the flange.

Measuring Tools: If no records exist, grab your measuring tools. Old-fashioned, but effective! Measure the flange dimensions.

Identify Flange Features

Gap or Gapless: Check if there’s a gap between the flanges. If yes, measure the gap size. Step Wedge Flange Spreaders require at least .20″ of a gap, depending on the model. Mini Gap Flange Spreaders require 3/32″.

Bolt Hole Size: For gapless flanges or gaps less than 3/32″, measure the bolt hole diameter.

Outside-to-Outside Distance: Measure the distance from the outer edge of one flange to the outer edge of the other.

Valve or Blind Removal

Bolt Hole Size: If you’re removing a valve or blind, measure the bolt hole diameters.

Valve Length: Measure the length of the valve or blind itself.

Spacing: Notate and measure possible obstructions or spacing issues.

At ESI, we provide flange spreaders that empower operators to apply force with precision, ensuring controlled and measured force is used for every task, aligning with the core principles of physics for optimal results.

Flange Spreaders Designed for...

The Viper28M step wedge flange spreader is engineered for precise and controlled operation. Each flange spreader can produce 28 tons of spreading force, making it the stronges flange spreader on the market. Other useful features include:

Its uniquely designed teeth allow secure engagement across multiple joint configurations.
Unlike conventional flange spreaders, the Viper’s jaws open laterally—east to west—rather than vertically, significantly minimizing the risk of ejection during use.
Single pin assemble/disassemble makes maintenance quick and easy, extending the life of the tool.

The SWI1214TM, commonly known as the mechanical step wedge flange spreader, delivers up to 14 tons of controlled spreading force. Designed with safety in mind, it features:

A pinch-free operation
A calibrated torque wrench, ensuring precise force application throughout each task.
Additionally, the safety lanyard prevents accidental drops, protecting both the operator and the tool from damage.

Originally designed for underwater use by divers, this flange spreader has proven its versatility across demanding environments. It’s particularly valuable for flanges positioned in hard-to-reach spaces or at extreme heights, where transporting an 80-pound case presents a significant challenge—especially when the work site is 100 feet above ground.

Key features that enhance usability include:

An integrated 10,000 psi hydraulic pump, reducing fatigue by eliminating the need for multiple tools in a single operation.
A compact, lightweight design (17″ long, 16.5 lbs) for easier handling.
The ability to fit into gaps as narrow as 5mm, combining power with exceptional adaptability.

The Auto Spreader is available in hydraulic or mechancial. Both options provide a maximum of 5 tons spreading force. Its compact size and light weight feature make is optimal for those tough jobs. Features include:

Needing a gap of only 3/32″ (2.4mm) makes it compatable with many jobs.
Combine two spreaders and a dual port pump for a simultanous spread and 10 tons of spreading force.
Unique body design enhances the operator’s ability to position and control.

Click the image below to see BIC Magazine Tool Review!

For years, maintaining flanges, especially those without gaps, was a daunting task. Traditional methods involving cranes, pulleys, and crowbars not only posed significant safety risks but also demanded an excessive amount of time and labor. Features include:

SG Collet Technology to grip within the bolt hole
Available in Mechanical or Hydraulic Models
Provides up to 22 – 26 tons of spreading when used in pairs

Safe and Efficient Operations Zero Gap Flange Spreader Pin Technology is engineered to provide operators with a safe and efficient solution for maintaining challenging flange joints. Innovative Design for a Firm Grip The tool’s innovative design allows you to insert the pins into the bolt hole easily. Features include:

Multiple sized pins for compatability for a variety of joints
Light weight and compact size
Simple set up and operator friendly

Click the image below to review a case study.

The Spacer Removal Tool is a modified version of the Zero-Gap tool, equipped with short collet holder kits to enhance its range of motion.

Distinctive Features include:

Collet Technology: Collets grips the inside of the bolt holes while the operator actuates the tool to pull the joint apart.
Size Versatility: A variety of collet sizes to accommodate different bolt hole dimensions. In addition the tools robust size makes it perfect for High Pressure and low pressure applications.

*For lengther valves please see valve removal tool or tab 4.

This adaptation enables it to effectively spread joints in applications where spacers or a butterfly valves are positioned between the flanges.

Distinctive Features include:

Precision Instrumentation: The kit comes with a calibrated torque wrench or for hydraulic models all kits includes a closed circuit 10,000 PSI hand pump with guage for precise force measurement.

Versatility: Short Collet Holder kits improves the tools versatility when changing valves or blinds.

The Valve Removal Tool is a specialized instrument designed for operators who need to perform valve replacements with utmost precision and control. When you’re dealing with critical components like valves, accuracy matters. This tool minimizes the risk of damage during removal.

Key Features:

Kit includes Twin Flange Spreaders for simultaneous spreading.
Value offers operators an economical solution for tough jobs.
Efficient and precise for optimal performance.

When you’re dealing with critical components like valves, accuracy matters. This tool minimizes the risk of damage during removal. By adding spacer bars, the Valve Removal Tool can handle valves of various sizes—whether they’re small, medium, or large.

Key Features Include:

Compact and light reducing operator fatigue
Pin technology making the Valve Removal tool compatable for most applications.
Add on additional Bar Segements for lengther valves.