KUTS Field Services ensures that critical bolted joints in your facility are secure, tight,and leak-free through our Bolt Torque & Tensioning services. In refineries, chemical plants, and other industrial sites, bolted connections (like those on pipe flanges, pressure vessels, and equipment housings) must withstand high pressures and temperatures. A loose or unevenly tightened bolt can lead to leaks, equipment failure, or even safety incidents. Our job is to prevent that by applying correct, controlled tightening toevery bolt.
We use specialized hydraulic torque wrenches and bolt tensioners to achieve the exact specifications required for each bolt. Torque tightening involves applying a precise rotational force to the bolt/nut, while tensioning stretches the bolt by pulling on it directly – we choose the method that’s best for the application. All our technicians are trained according to industry bolting standards (such as ASME PCC-1) and have experience with bolts of all sizes. They ensure each fastener in a flange set is tightened in the proper sequence and to the correct load, so the gasketed joint is uniformly compressed. This level of precision prevents gasket blowouts and helps joints maintain seal under pressure.
What we offer:
- Flange Assembly & Assurance: When assembling flanged connections, we provide the torque/tension equipment and expertise to tighten them right the first time. We can also work on existing connections that need re-tightening or checking.
- Tensioning for Large Bolts: For very large diameter bolts or critical applications (like reactor vessels or heat exchangers), we often employ hydraulic tensioning, which can be more accurate and applied simultaneously to multiple bolts for even load distribution.
- Bolt Load Verification: We don’t just tighten and walk away – we can verify bolt loads using ultrasonic measurement or by verifying elongation, ensuring the clamping force meets requirements. This is part of our commitment to quality assurance on bolting jobs.
- Additional Bolting Services: We also assist with things like nut splitting and seized bolt removal. If an old bolt is frozen in place or a nut is rusted solid, we have methods to safely remove them (like splitters that can cleanly crack a nut off) so we can install new fasteners. Similarly, if a stud breaks, we can extract and replace it.
Using our bolt torque and tensioning service means you can have confidence in your critical joints. Every bolt is handled by a professional who understands the stakes and has the right tools for the job. We keep detailed records of the torque values or tension pressure used, and can provide documentation for your maintenance files or quality audits. With properly tensioned bolts, your equipment can operate at full capacity with a significantly reduced risk of leaks or failures.