LENGAP0.5 - Gap-A-Let 1/2-Inch Socket Weld Spacer Rings (20-Pack)

Precision Socket Weld Spacing for Code Compliance

The G.A.L. Gage Company Gap-A-Let Rings are an essential component for industrial pipe fitting, designed to ensure strict adherence to ASME B31.1 and B31.3 piping codes. In socket weld applications, maintaining a minimum gap of 1/16 inch (1.6mm) between the pipe end and the bottom of the socket is critical. This gap accommodates thermal expansion during the welding process and subsequent operation, preventing stress corrosion cracking that can compromise the integrity of the piping system. The LENGAP0.5 model is specifically engineered for 1/2-inch Nominal Pipe Size (NPS) fittings, providing a precise and reliable solution for high-stakes industrial environments.

Traditional methods of establishing this gap involve inserting the pipe fully, scribing a line, and then withdrawing the pipe a specific distance. This manual process is prone to human error, inconsistency, and significant labor time. Gap-A-Let rings eliminate these variables entirely. Manufactured from high-quality stainless steel, these rings are inserted directly into the fitting before the pipe. They provide a physical stop that guarantees the correct gap is maintained every single time, regardless of the welder's skill level or fatigue. This mechanical precision is vital for Quality Assurance (QA) and Quality Control (QC) managers looking to minimize weld failures and maximize system longevity.

These rings feature a unique spring-tensioned design that secures them firmly within the fitting, allowing for use in vertical, horizontal, or overhead positions without the risk of the ring shifting or falling out during fit-up. By standardizing the gap setting process, facilities can ensure uniform compliance across all socket welds, reducing inspection failures and rework. For critical piping systems in power generation, petrochemical, and marine applications, Gap-A-Let rings offer a low-cost, high-value insurance policy against thermal stress failures.