High-tech version of the bolt

Paul Boughton
RotaBolt has recently received major orders for a special fastener that was originally developed in 2006.

The success of their high-tech version of the Indicating Rod Bolt has led to the new fastener being specified on pressure vessels and heat exchangers for projects in Nigeria and Peru - and with more work ‘in the pipeline’ from Algeria and Nigeria, current orders are likely to exceed £1million.    

The high performance version of the Indicating Rod Bolt was successfully developed after RotaBolt was approached by a major EPC contractor and its preferred vessel manufacturer, who had been experiencing difficulties with heat exchangers on previously commissioned LNG trains on a major plant in Africa.

A standard Indicating Rod Bolt uses direct length measurement to gauge the delivery of load and these fasteners had been specified on the project but were failing to provide the control that was necessary to assure fully sealed flange joints under test conditions.   

RotaBolt’s new version of the fastener gives a much more accurate measurement of bolt tension from the length extension to guarantee the uniform delivery and maintenance of load. The company has applied its technology to produce bolts which are individually load test calibrated and fitted with a special indicator to measure extension. Every bolt’s extension measurement is certified.

RotaBolt tension control systems are increasingly being used with leading operators in renewable energy, oil and gas, chemical processing, civil engineering, environment, transport and defence.

RotaBolt

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