Enter a target torque and print a pass table for the job: snug, the percentage passes, the extra 100% pass for spiral wound and double-jacketed gaskets, and the circular check pass. Values are for reference; confirm against the current edition of the governing standard. Send us your bolting list for a quote or call (281) 581-0176.
Related: Tightening Patterns Explained · Gasket Stress Target Torque Calculator · Flange Gap Log · All technical docs
The passes
- Snug: hand tighten, then snug to 10–20 ft-lb, never more than 10% of the target (PCC-1 Sec. 9).
- Pass 1: 20–30% of target. Pass 2: 50–70%. Pass 3: 100%.
- Pass 4: a second 100% pass, which may be needed for spiral wound and double-jacketed gaskets or problematic joints (F-6.1.1.2).
- Check pass: circular, bolt to bolt at 100%, repeated until no nut turns.
- Circular pattern (four bolts at 12, 3, 6 and 9 o’clock first) is for hard gaskets only (F-6.1.3).
Bolt order
Number the bolts clockwise. The 2026 edition makes the star pattern (Table F-6.1.1.1-1) the main sequence. The legacy cross pattern on our Flange Bolt Tightening Patterns sheet remains an accepted alternative (J-6). See Tightening Patterns Explained.
References: ASME PCC-1-2026, Guidelines for Pressure Boundary Bolted Flange Joint Assembly. Summaries are paraphrased; clause numbers refer to ASME PCC-1-2026 unless noted. Patriot Bolt manufactures bolting and does not perform bolting, training or joint assembly services.