INSTALLATION
Ensure the pipe end is correctly prepared. (HDPE Pipe to Be Bevelled) All with which the gaskets come into contact are to be thoroughly cleaned immediately before flange adaptor installation, thus allowing the gaskets to seal effectively. A distance of one centre sleeve length plus 50mm should be prepared to remove all loose rust, dirt and foreign matter. It is important that the pipe ends be smooth, concentric and within specified tolerances. It is important that weld beads are ground flush maintaining correct surface profile.
Reference marks should be placed on the pipe to facilitate in centring the Flange Adaptor / Coupling over the gap between the pipes in accordance with Klamflex setting gaps for each specific Flange Adaptor / Coupling.
Larger-diameter pipes may become out of round in transportation and handling. Therefore, it is normal to expect to use jacks, wedges, shims, or other means to facilitate assembly of the Flange Adaptor / Coupling.
The end ring containing the Gripper Blocks shall be placed on the pipe.
A suitable gasket lubricant (such as non-toxic silicone oil) must be applied to the pipe end and the sealing ring; care must be taken to ensure the gaskets are clean.
The pipe end shall be aligned & pushed in leaving the appropriate gap tabulated in Setting Gaps in the Technical Catalogue and Website. Adjustment of the trench bed may be necessary.
The end ring is to be pulled back up the sleeve.
Bolts shall be tightened to the Klamflex recommended torque.
Restraining block bolts are to be tightened, the bolts are only for gripping action and does NOT affect sealing. Tightening force of the gripper bolts will depend on the pipe material being gripped. Various pipes will require various forces.
Consult Klamflex for torque recommendations.
After pressure testing and depressurising the line and before backfilling Klamflex recommends that the bolt torques are checked again as some pipe movement may have occurred during the pressurisation and depressurisation process.
STORAGE
Store in a cool dark place and where possible below 65 degrees Celsius.
Store away from direct sunlight, electrical discharges and sparking electric motors.
Always store sealing rings in an unstressed condition, never hang even for a short time.
TROUBLE SHOOTING
Check if the fitting is correct for the application – if not, replace with correct fitting.
Check if there was any pipe movement - if yes, the pipes must be strapped or restrained and the fitting reinstalled.
Check for angular deflection – if yes then the pipes must be strapped or restrained and the fitting reinstalled.
Check if gasket is uniformly compressed and end ring evenly tightened - if not the bolts must be loosened and re-tightened as specified in the installation instructions. In some cases, the fitting might have to be strapped or restrained as excessive movement could also dislodge the gasket.
Check bolt torques - if not to specified torque, retighten and torque to installation specifications. Ensure that the pipeline is depressurised prior to retightening.
Check if fittings are properly aligned - if not loosen bolts, align, and retighten following installation instructions.
Ensure that pipe is not oval or out of specification by measuring pipe OD at open end in at least four positions.
Check if rubber was correctly installed - if not replace rubber seal and follow installation instructions.
Check setting gaps if possible - if incorrect, reinstall using correct setting gaps.
Check if lubrication has been used on rubber seal - if not strip fitting and apply lubricant to the outside of the rubber and reinstall as per installation instructions.
Check fitting ID - if incorrect, please contact supplier.
DON'T
Do not over torque bolts.
Do not modify or alter any components on the flange adaptor.
Do not exceed design nor test pressure.
Do not over stretch sealing rubbers, nor expose to open flames.
