A new methodology for the optimization of bolt tightening sequences for ring type joints

TL;DR

This paper introduces a new, cost-effective methodology for optimizing bolt tightening sequences in ring type joints, ensuring uniform load distribution and leak-proof sealing in offshore pressure vessels.

Contribution

It develops a validated new approach that reduces computational and experimental costs compared to previous Elastic Interaction Coefficients Method.

Findings

Method achieves uniform bolt load distribution effectively.

Significantly lower cost than previous methods.

Validated through numerical and experimental tests.

Abstract

Achieving uniform bolt load distribution is critical to obtain leak-free service in pressure vessel gasketed joints used in offshore pipelines. This is a difficult task due to bolt load variations during the assembly process. In this sense, the Elastic Interaction Coefficients Method has been developed in previous works to define tightening sequences that provide the target load at the end of the sequence in one or two passes. The method is very costly because a complete sequence must be simulated and the load of every bolt must be measured after each tightening operation. The present work validates this method for Ring Type Joints and further develops a numerically and experimentally validated new methodology that provides highly satisfactory results with a significantly lower cost.