Fastener Washer Installation

Details Determine Connection Reliability The installation quality of metal fastener gaskets directly impacts the stability and sealing integrity of connection structures. Improper handling may lead to loosening, leakage, or even equipment failure, making meticulous attention to installation details essential.

Pre-installation preparation is critical. First, verify that the gasket's dimensions and material match design specifications. Confirm the gasket surface is free of scratches, deformation, rust, or other defects. Even if the material meets standards, damaged gaskets will compromise sealing performance. Simultaneously, clean the mating surfaces of the components to be connected, removing oil, contaminants, and burrs to ensure a flat, clean interface. Residual contaminants on the mating surfaces can cause uneven stress distribution on the gasket, accelerating wear. Burrs present may puncture the gasket, leading to seal failure.

During installation, pay attention to gasket positioning and force distribution balance. Place the gasket precisely at the center of the bolt hole to prevent local overloading caused by misalignment. When installing bolts, follow the “symmetrical tightening” principle: gradually tighten bolts in a diagonal sequence rather than tightening a single bolt at once. This method ensures uniform stress distribution across the gasket, preventing deformation from localized overpressure or gaps caused by uneven pressure. Additionally, bolt torque must meet specifications: insufficient torque leads to inadequate sealing pressure and increased leakage risk, while excessive torque may crush the gasket or cause plastic deformation in bolts, compromising connection reliability.

Post-installation inspection is essential to verify that gaskets are not misaligned or deformed and that bolts show no signs of loosening. For high-pressure or critical equipment, pressure testing should be conducted to confirm seal integrity before commissioning.