Gap Analysis in Flanged Unions

The industrial use of simulation tools allows us to obtain a good approach in the knowledge of the phenomena that take place in the process that is modeled. Several factors of the flange design have a direct influence on the value of the gap. The value of the gap determines the capacity of the union to contain fluids under pressure, as well as the type of sealant to be indicated. Therefore, this paper presents the analyses, made using the finite element method, of the influence of different geometric parameters in the gap value and the behavior of the gap when each parameter is modified while all other parameters are maintained constant. We expect that this paper will serve to the designer as a guide to adjust the different parameters to reach the working necessities of flanged joints.