How To Safely Disassemble Expansion Joints

Safe disassembly of expansion joints must follow standardized procedures, focusing on correct tool use, adequate personal protective equipment, and system safety isolation to avoid leaks, mechanical injuries, or equipment damage caused by improper operation. The following is a safety operating guide combining a torque wrench, bolt cutting equipment, and protective gear:

Pre-operation Preparation: Ensuring System Safety

Shutdown and Depressurization

Close upstream and downstream valves to completely shut down the pipeline system.

Drain the medium (water, steam, gas, etc.) and confirm the pressure is zero using a pressure gauge.

High-temperature systems must be allowed to cool naturally to below 60°C to prevent burns.

Locking Off (LOTO)

Lock down relevant valves and power supplies and hang warning signs to prevent accidental operation.

Environmental Inspection

Ensure the work area is adequately lit, well-ventilated, and free of flammable materials or obstructions.

Set up a warning perimeter; unauthorized personnel are prohibited from entering.

Proper Use of Tools: Ensuring Operational Efficiency and Safety

Use of a Torque Wrench (for Flange Bolt Removal)

Purpose: To loosen bolts evenly in a diagonal sequence, preventing uneven stress on the flange that could lead to deformation or damage.

Key Points of Operation:
Select a torque wrench with an appropriate range (usually 20%~80% of the bolt pre-tightening torque).

Adjust to a torque value lower than the original tightening torque for gradual loosening before disassembly.

When applying force, keep the wrench perpendicular to the bolt, apply force slowly, and stop when you hear a "click," avoiding impact.

Disassembly Sequence: Loosen in multiple steps along the diagonal, loosening only one turn each time, until the pre-tightening force is completely removed.