Question: If the advantages and benefits are as good as you suggest why is it then, that there is still a very high useage ASME/ANSI Flanges around the world?

Answer: In the past our products were usually used in high pressure applications or where space and weight were major considerations.
However now with a world that is becoming more environmentally concerned, leak free connections are very much more the order of the day.
The primary choice of mechanical joint is between ‘standard’ ASME/ANSI, API or one of the proprietary compact flanges or clamp connectors. The latter choices are obviously better suited where space and weight is an issue. However, they also have significant advantages over conventional flanges where high bending moments are applied.

Question: Is there any industry standard or code approval for your products?

Answer: Standard – There is an accepted industry standard between different manufacturers allowing for interchangeability, this does not cover calculations or product approval which may vary between suppliers.
Codes – There are a variety of code applications and different regions/customers will dictate these accordingly. However, Vector have based their code assessment upon ASME VIII which in turn can be adapted to comply with other code applications (API, BSI etc).

Question: Why is there no standard of code approval for your products?

Answer: Over and above the accepted interchangeability standard are a host of special applications and material issues which are dictated by our customers and markets. As a result most of our applications are bespoke in one way or another. This makes it very difficult to formulate a clear strategy for standardisation.

Question: Do you provide any software or plug-in package for AutoCad or other for working on piping layouts for calculating space on pipe work and equipment as well as support loads and weights.

Answer: At present we do not provide ‘plug in’ software for CAD packages, although it is an area we are currently looking into for further development. With regard the connector loadings, these are currently evaluated at our Design Centres using our Type Approval calculation methods. These calculations are performed using interactive software which is currently being developed to operate via the world wide web.

Question: How does our product’s delivery compare with standard ANSI flanges?

Answer: This could be like comparing apples and pears since ANSI flanges are available from thousands of outlets.
Provided that Vector’s standard materials are utilised, our deliveries can be ex stock, if however bespoke sizing and materials are required (60% of customer requirements) then deliveries will obviously vary and are dependant on material availability.
For bespoke application, our design teams are available to advise the best options for the particular application.

Question: What special materials do you use for your products?

Answer: Sealrings – generally high strength materials (4140, 630SS, Alloy 718) are used to improve sealring forces and enhance re-useability.
We try and avoid low strength materials for sealrings which is the opposite philosophy for materials specified for Ring Joint Gaskets.
Clamps – generally Low Alloy steel clamps are used to obtain a high strength component for maximum performance. All materials are impact tested (typically at – 46o C)
Hubs All material grades to suit the pipe. This would be dictated by customer requirements and applications.
General – all wetted materials are specified to meet NACE stress corrosion hardness limits. All materials are forged and are ordered to in house specifications.

Question: Will valve and interfacing equipment cost more, take longer for delivery and be unavailable with some manufacturers.

Answer: Many valve manufacturers have significant experience of working with compact flanges and clamp connectors. (see Valve Manufacture and Interfacing Equipment heading on this CD) and we work closely with them to ensure all design support is available to them on a timely basis. Delivery nor cost should be impaired. For exotic steels, there are many reasons why costs could be reduced.
We provide drawings, gauges and hydro-test equipment as may be necessary upon request.

Question: Where do you hold stock?

Answer: Around the World, Malaysia, Dubai, Europe, Norway and Aberdeen.

Question: Do you provide training, onsite machining and technical support?

Answer: Training can be organised to suit your needs. The courses can be arranged out of any of our regional offices. Included on this CD are the slides of our standard training course. Look under Technical Support heading.

Question: How do your products compare in cost to standard ANSI flanges?

Answer: Difficult question! Many variables to consider

The above is meant to show a general trend. In every case the question is dependant upon the material specification and obviously quantity. 60% of our customers are specifying special requirements.
The above trend does NOT include for cost savings associated with weight, space or assembly or indeed joint integrity.
It should be recognised that any one of these factors alone can offer savings much greater than the cost of the parts. You should be considering ‘Life Cycle Costing’.

The above questions are typical of those we get asked. If you have any other questions please contact us.