Over 180 questionnaires asking about user experience and attitudes on bolted flanged joints were received from a distribution of 295 that reached the Power, Oil Refining, Chemicals, Oil and Gas Production, and Transportation industries represented in the USA and 12 other countries. By examining the needs and experience of flanged joint users, the survey was intended to help establish research priorities and provide guidance to Code and Standards bodies and to the PVRC's Long Range Flange Joint Improvement Program.

Survey findings confirm the general direction of current PVRC efforts, particularly as discussed in the Long Range Flanged Joint Improvement Program, and in the recent formulation of an experimental/analytical elevated temperature flanged joint program through a joint Task Group under the direction of the PVRCs/c's on Bolted Flanged Connections and Elevated Temperature Design. There is strong emphasis on the need for a better understanding of joint behavior, particularly in elevated temperature service; for more data in the areas of gasket behavior and facing finish effects; and for work directed at improved gasket selection and bolting practices.

This survey was conducted under the direction of the PVRC's Subcommittee on Bolted Flange Connections, through its Task Group on Gasket Testing. Sponsors of the PVRC's Gasket Test Program II funded the effort.