Tri Clamp Tightening

[froptus]

Only rarely have I had to use a tool to tighten a clamp. Usually because the clamp was poorly manufactured. I was careful not to over tighten and I never had any problems. Here's a true story for you: I know someone who did use a tool to tighten a clamp and during the night the pin that holds the two halves together snapped and 100 bbls went down the drain. Did he over tighten or was it a cheap, inferior clamp? Probably both.

[gitchegumee]

Thank you! Proves my point that cheap equipment and "shortcuts" are a false economy. Do it right the first time.

[gasketman]

Gaskets

Just a quick note on the gaskets. If your EPDM gaskets are swelling then your problem is rubber quality. A good EPDM material will easily service 300F hot water and steam and even the toughest caustic cleaners and sanitizers. All EPDM materials are not equal and just like everything else in the world, quality can be sacrificed for cost and often is.