Utilizing Load Indicating Fasteners for Industrial Bolted Flange Applications	Time: 1:30 PM	Room A
Kris Kolb, Lamons & Mike Tavary , Dow Chemical A problematic heat exchanger at Dow Chemical in Freeport, Texas routinely experienced leaks where many gasket designs and assembly methods were attempted. Traditional methods of tightening for bolted flange connections very often include the use of torque wrenches and tools that attempt to control the aspects of friction in a threaded fastener. This popular method is often very inaccurate considering the variables that prevent this twisting force from translating into fastener stress. Load indicating fasteners have been used in many industries to accurately measure the elongations of the fastener which directly corresponds to its stress throughout the life of the bolted joint. Greater accuracy of clamp load can be achieved while reducing maintenance time associated with cumbersome tools such as torque wrenches.