Use Higher Nut Factor K for Stainless Steel

Are you using carbon steel torque tables for stainless steel nuts and bolts?

If so, you may be in serious danger of flange leaks due to undertightened bolts. 

Please keep in mind that the Nut Factor, K for stainless steel nuts and bolts should be about 30% higher than the Nut Factor, K for the equivalent size carbon steel nuts and bolts. Using the carbon steel Nut Factor, K for stainless steel nuts and bolts may result in undertight bolts that self loosen over time. Flange leaks from loose bolts may present a major operational risk at your facility.

Unsure where any of the values in your torque tables come from? Metalmark Engineering loves checking torque tables against the real world case to determine the source of flange leaks.