ln our previous article we looked at flange spreaders, so continuing the theme we now take a look at flange alignment and flange pulling tools.

Flange alignment tools are used to align or re-align flange joints during pipework construction, commissioning or during routine maintenance. This might be when replacing an RTJ of ring or when the flange face needs re-machining using a flange facing machine.

Once broken down, a previously assembled flanged joint may spring out of alignment at any point or in any direction around its circumference. Misalignment may not be visible until only a few bolts remain.

Flange spreading tools – (sometimes referred to as flange splitters or flange separators), are a useful addition to the on-site engineer’s arsenal of flange maintenance tools. These industrial tools are available in a range of configurations, and as the name suggests they’re used to assist in the separation of pipe flange joints. Typical projects include pipeline construction, commissioning, routine maintenance or when valves or pumps need to be replaced.

This video is brought to you by kind permission by Sandvik Coromant. As a leading manufacturer of carbide inserts, they're well placed to offer sound advice and insight into machining best practice. 

Understanding chip formation when using indexable drill inserts can increase drilling effectiveness when carrying our on-site project work, or repeatable operations in a manufacturing environment.

They say a picture paints a thousand words, but videos take this to the next level.

In the engineering world there's no substitute for a product video to show how things work and how they fit together. In the 3 month period from July to September 2018, the video viewing stats of Mirage products reached an all time high, with total views exceeding 24,000 views for the 3 month period. 

So whether you're an engineering rookie or seasoned field machinist, we recommend you take a look at our top 6 videos for Q3 2018. 

Portable milling machines can be used for a wide range of applications in the oil & gas, power generation and many other sectors. Fixing methods include a gantry frame, which converts a 2-axis milling rail into a 3-axis machine, chain clamps, switch magnets and bolt holes. Take a look at the applications listed below and discover the type of projects where Mirage milling machines have been used.