Chiksan

Longsweep Swivel Joints

Operating and Maintenance
Instructions

Standard Service Models:

LS-7, 3-inch
LS-10, 1-, 11/2-, 2- and 3-inch
LS-15, 1-, 11/2-, 2-, 3- and 4-inch
LS-20, 2- and 3-inch
Product Description
 Product Description
Chiksan Longsweep swivel joints are made to handle a variety of
oilfield fluids, including cement, drilling mud, fracturing fluids, crude oil
and other abrasive well-treating materials.
Several Longsweep styles are available. These configurations provide
flexibility in making piping connections at the wellhead, blowout
preventer stack, and at other pieces of equipment used in servicing or
testing wells.
Longsweep swivel joint components are made from low-alloy steel
and are heat-treated to achieve required strength for the rated working
pressure.
Primary packings are elastomeric with a bonded metal anti-extrusion
ring.
All Longsweep swivels, except for the I- and 11/2-inch sizes, have a
secondary 0-ring with a leak detector port between the primary and
secondary seals.
If leakage should occur through the packing, the self-relieving grease
retainer will prevent pressure accumulation in the ball race chamber.
Longsweep swivel joints are available with integral Weco wing union
end connections of corresponding pressure ratings. Some sizes are
available with female API line pipe threads.
Swivel joint size designations indicate nominal size only. Actual
inside diameters are as follows:
End Connections
Weco wing union end connections have pressure ratings that are
consistent with the swivel joint rating. Union parts with the same figure
numbers are interchangeable. Mixing parts with different figure numbers is
hazardous and can cause wing union failure. Substituting parts other than
Weco voids pressure ratings.
When tightening union nuts, personnel must wear suitable eye
protection to protect against metal fragments that may be loosened from the
surfaces of the nut or hammer.
Use of excessive hammering force or overtightening can damage wing
unions and must be avoided.
Threaded end connections are machined in accordance with API Line
Pipe Thread (LPT) Standards. Threaded ends are limited to either 7,500 or
10,000 psi cold working pressure, depending on the model. Thread
compound and power make-up must be used to achieve rated cold working
pressure and to prevent backoff when under pressure.
Torques for adequate make-up of line pipe threads are estimated
as follows:
Swivel Joint Size, in. Torque, ft-lbs
1 250 to 400
1 1/2 500 to 800
2 1,000 to 1,400
3 1,500 to 2,000

Swivel Joint Nominal Size Actual Size After proper make-up, pipe threads are distorted and will not meet
LS-10, LS-15 1-inch .88-inch 22 mm gauging standards if disassembled. When such threads are disengaged for
LS-10, LS-15 11/2-inch 1.3-inch 33 mm any reason, it is recommended that parts not be reused, but be replaced with
LS-10, LS-15 2-inch 1.88-inch 47 mm new ones having unused ends.
LS-20 2-inch 1.3-inch 33 mm FMC recommends that the complete system containing threaded
LS-7, LS-10, LS-15 3-inch 2.75-inch 70 mm swivel joints be tested as a unit to the highest pressure anticipated in service.
LS-20 3-inch 3-inch 75 mm The test should not exceed the rated cold working pressure. New swivel
LS-15 4-inch 3.5-inch 89 mm joints can be subjected to a one-time test at 11/2 times the rated pressure if
other equipment involved is compatible with the test pressure.
Longsweep swivel joints are not intended for service in assemblies,
fixtures, or machines which inhibit rotation about the centerline. Alignment
Pressure/Temperature Ratings and concentricity of bearings with the end connections require a total lack of
Longsweep swivel joints are available for service at 7,500 psi to constraint to assure dependable service.
20,000 psi cold working pressure. Pressure ratings are given on
nameplates and union nuts that are part of the specific assemblies.

NOTE: Nameplates are the primary way to Identify the pressure rating of
a Longsweep swivel. They must not be removed, painted or otherwise
obliterated.
Paint color* as originally provided by FMC indicates rated
working pressure as follows:
Light Blue 20,000 psi (1380 bar)
Red 15,000 psi (1034 bar)
Black 10,000 psi (690 bar)
Brown 7,500 psi (517 bar)
*IMPORTANT: Since swivels may be repainted a different color by
users, do not use color as a primary means of Identification.
CAUTION: THE RATED WORKING PRESSURE IS NOT TO BE EXCEEDED
DURING FIELD SERVICE OR FIELD TESTING.
Factory pressure testing is limited to 3,000 psi to avoid damage to end
connections. Testing at higher pressures may be arranged on customer
request. Users may subject new swivel joints to a one-time hydrostatic shop
test at 11/2 times the rated cold working pressure.
The maximum operating temperature for swivels with nitrile packing
(FMC Compound 00) is 225F (107C). However, exposure to well fluids at
temperatures above 160F (71C) may accelerate deterioration of the
elastomeric packing as a result of compression set, tearing, chemical attack
or gas absorption. The minimum operating temperature is -20OF (-6C).
Assemblies consisting of components with different pressure ratings
are always limited to the lowest rating given on any individual component.
Applications
Although Longsweep swivel joints can be rotated or oscillated while
under fluid pressure, seal and bearing life may be dramatically shortened
if they are subjected to significant motion at high pressure. Chiksan swivel
joints are not recommended for use under continuous rotary motion. Swivel
joint life and warranty will be limited if joints are subjected to continuous
oscillation at high pressure.
When connecting swivels to pumps on vehicles, or when installing
swivels or fabricated loops into stationary fluid lines which are subject to
vibration, the swivel joints must be oriented so that line flexibility is present
in all planes. Style 50 (2 swivels) or Style 10 (3 swivels) assemblies are
suited for most of these installations. Style 40 (1 swivel) assemblies are not
normally used and are not suitable for use in these applications.
Care must be exercised when installing swivel joints to prevent
subsequent mechanical loading which might cause bearing damage. Typical
services which require special thought and care include installation of piping
from pump vehicles to lines on the ground and running of lines where trucks
or other vehicles could hit or run over the lines.
Acids or other corrosive fluids may cause pitting of internal surfaces
and deterioration of packing. Use of inhibitors in these fluids and
thorough flushing of swivels after exposure to pressure are necessary to
minimize damage. Examination of swivel joints following each exposure is
recommended.
Applied bending or tensile forces will result in stresses and ball-race
loads which add to those induced by internal pressure. If loads are to be
applied, consult factory to determine limitations that may result.
Gases at high pressures (especially carbon dioxide and hydrogen
sulfide) tend to permeate elastomers, resulting in blistering or rupturing
when pressure is released. After known exposure to gas pressures above
2,000 psi, FMC recommends that swivels be examined frequently and
damaged packings replaced. See note on sour gas service below.

Leak Detection
Longsweep swivel joints, except for I- and 11/2-inch sizes, have a leak
detector port on the shoulder of the female ball race section. Swivels are
shipped from the factory with a screw sealing the leak detector port. Users
who wish to use the leak detector port must remove the screw.
1
NOTE: Standard Longsweep swivels are not suitable for use In sour
gas environment, because they are susceptible to stress
corrosion cracking. Special swivels conforming with NACE MR-01-75
are available for sour gas service.
 Longsweep swivel joints are not recommended in applications where
rotating torque may be a critical factor. These swivels have relatively high
torque levels, especially at high pressures, and torque will vary as much as
50 percent between swivels.
Some Longsweep swivel joints come with external seals and ball plug
seals which permit use in submerged service. Before installing Longsweep
swivel joints underwater, consult FMC to make sure the proper swivel joint
is used.
Swivel Life and Preventive Maintenance
Because normal applications for Longsweep swivel joints involve
handling of abrasive or corrosive fluids at relatively high flow velocities,
internal surfaces may be subject to accelerated deterioration as indicated
by loss of wall thickness, pitting and wear on sealing surfaces, or possible
ball race damage if packing leakage was not detected early.
Repacking Instructions
Special Tools
Truarc pliers, awl or similar pointed tool, vise, screwdriver, pipe wrench
Disassembly
1. Remove ball plug snap rings using Truarc pliers.
2. Remove ball plugs using awl.
3. Secure female component in vise with ball plug holes positioned over
a suitable container.
4. Rotate male component, using a pipe wrench if necessary. Ball
bearings should drop out.
NOTE: It may be necessary to thin hardened lubricant with petroleum
solvent.
5. Separate male and female components after ball bearings have
been removed.
CAUTION: Do not damage machined surfaces when separating
components. Protect sealing surfaces at all times.
6. Carefully remove old packing from female packing chamber using
screwdriver.
2
To prevent leakage, malfunctions resulting from internal wear,
packing degradation, or ball-race deterioration, the user must establish a
Preventive Maintenance and Inspection Program. This program must
include: inspection of parts to detect loss of wall thickness which may result
in decreased pressure capacity; routine replacement of packings; and,
regularly scheduled lubrication.
IMPORTANT: Longsweep swivel joints which exhibit a loss of wall
thickness exceeding 20 percent at any point must be taken out of service.
Wall thickness may be measured using visual, sonic or mechanical
means.
After handling acids or other corrosive fluids, swivels must be flushed
out with water to prevent continued corrosion and deterioration when not in
service.
CAUTION: Use extreme care In removing old packing to prevent damage
tosealing surfaces.
7. Remove 0-ring from female component.
8. Remove grease retainer from male component.
9. Clean all parts with petroleum solvent.
10. Inspect parts for excessive wear, corrosion or other damage.
a. Inspect ball races for dents or grooves.
b. Check male and female components for excessive erosion or
corrosion.
c. Carefully inspect the inside surfaces of elbows for evidence of
erosion or corrosion.
WARNING: Replace all parts for which visual, ultrasonic, or other
Inspection means Indicate wall section wear or thinning in elbows or
straight sections. Such damage will result in severely reduced pressure
and structural capacity. Replace all parts that show evidence of damage
In the ball races, packing seal surfaces, or other areas. (See Swivel Life
and Preventive Maintenance.)
11. Sealing surfaces must be completely smooth. Remove minor scratches
or pitting by polishing with fine abrasive.
12. Reclean all parts after polishing to remove metal particles and
abrasives.
 Assembly
1. Apply a thin coat of lubricant to ball races, sealing surfaces, new
packing and 0-ring.
CAUTION: Make sure correct lubricant Is used for intended service
conditions. (See Lubricant Data.)
2. Install new packing in female component and 0-ring as required.
CAUTION: Anti-extrusion ring must face outward, toward ball races.
3. Place grease retainer on male component and position at extreme
end of machined surface so that it is clear of female end when parts
are initially assembled.
d. Repeat step c two more times, lubricating at each quarter turn.
e. Check smoothness of rotation.
CAUTION: Excessive lubrication can cause swivel joint to bind, distort
the anti-extrusion ring and displace the packing. Use only enough
lubricant to obtain smooth rotation. If the swivel Is more difficult to rotate
after greasing than before, or If lubricant Is detected on Inside of primary
packing, or If distortion of packing Is noted on Inner diameter,
disassemble joint and carefully Inspect all seals for damage. Replace
damaged seals and any packing which has been distorted or displaced
Into the bore.
11. Remove grease fitting and reinstall lube plug.

CAUTION: Lip on ID of grease retainer must face away from ball races Packing Identification
when installed.
Unless otherwise specified on purchase order, or required for
4. Secure female component in vise with ball plug holes on top. application described on purchase order, FMC will supply nitrile packing
5. Insert male component into female component. with brass anti-extrusion ring (OOB).
6. Look through ball plug holes to align ball races.
7. Drop balls into races. Rotate male component and add balls until Compound code* Compound Anti-extrusion ring Designation
races are filled with the specified number of balls in each race.
00 Nitrile Brass OOB
CAUTION: Count the number of balls Installed in each race to be certain
that exactly the specified number are installed. Incorrect number will *Compound code appears on inside diameter of each packing.
cause binding or excessive wear and reduced pressure or structural
capacity. (Refer to Replacement Parts List for the specified model.)
Lubricant Data
8. Install grease retainer into groove in female component, using
screwdriver. Be certain the lip on ID of retainer faces outward when Lubricant Temperature range* Part number
installed.
9. Insert ball plugs. Standard -50OF (-46C) to 3115574
10. Insert ball plug snap rings. Lube No. 7 212-F (100C)
11. Lubricate bearings as follows:
a. Remove lube fitting plug and install grease fitting. For special service conditions, consult factory for lubrication
b. Use small, hand-held grease gun to force a small amount of recommendations.
lubricant through the fitting.
*Minimum temperature for OOB packing is -20F (-6C).
CAUTION: Standard lubricant Is FMC Chiksan No. 7. (See Lubricant Data.)
**FMC Chiksan lubricants are available in various container sizes. Consult
c. Rotate male component 90 degrees (quarter turn) and add more the Chiksan Swivel Joint Price List for part numbers.
grease.

3
Hazardous Conditions
CAUTION: Following Is a list of hazardous conditions which, If
not avoided as Indicated, may result In severe property
damage, serious Injury, or death.
Hazardous Conditions
Use of incompatible union end connections on mating piping or
equipment will result in catastrophic failure of the connection at pressures
far below the rated working pressure of the swivel or union.
Mating end components not manufactured by FMC Corporation may
result in catastrophic failure of the connection at pressures far below the
rated working pressure of the FMC union or swivel.
Inadequate make-up of pipe threads may result in loosening of the pipe
connection, leakage of toxic or flammable fluids, structural failure of
the connection, or catastrophic failure under pressure. Make-up outside
a shop environment does not provide adequate control of torque,
cleanliness, pipe compound, and thread engagement to assure leak-free
performance at the rated working pressure.
Assembly of the swivel into a system which inhibits the free rotation
of the swivel about its centerline will cause binding of the bearings,
premature bearing failure, and possible structure-pressure load
combinations. This may result in catastrophic failure or structure collapse.
Use of incorrect swivels in handling fluids containing Hydrogen Sulfide
(Sour Gas) may result in stress corrosion cracking and catastrophic
failure of the swivel.
Use of swivels at pressures above the rated working pressure will result in
rapid deterioration of the bearing races and possible catastrophic failure
of the swivel.
Uncontrollable hazardous conditions may result from the use of eroded,
corroded, worn, or second-hand swivels, or the modification of swivels
by welding, machining, plating, heating or substitution of components not
made by FMC.
Use of swivels in handling acids and corrosive fluids may cause pitting of
internal surfaces, localized wall section thinning, and seal deterioration.
This may result in external leakage, structural weakening of the swivel,
and potential catastrophic failure.
Use of swivels after initial leakage has been detected may result in
contaminated bearings, binding of the swivel, external leakage of
hazardous fluids, and the introduction of mechanical loads beyond the
capacity of the swivel.
Use of swivels in any of the following applications may result in
hazardous conditions. Means of avoiding these hazards cannot be
predetermined.
-Submerged or underwater service
-Application of external loads
-Continuous rotation or oscillation
-Extended use at temperatures above 160F or below OF
-Handling radioactive materials
-Inaccessible locations or closed environments in which the eventual
leakage of the contained fluid may create a toxic or flammable condition
Impact loads, such as hammer blows, may cause failure of pressurized
swivel joints.
4
Means to Avoid Hazard
Examine the union nut for identification marking to assure that Figure
Numbers are identical. If not identical, do not use; consult factory.
Carefully examine all components for FMC identification marking.
FMC Corporation cannot assure compatibility or performance of
components not made by FMC.
Carefully make-up all pipe thread connections as recommended by the
American Petroleum Institute. Refer to torque recommendations on
page 1. A hydrostatic test of the system at the rated working pressure is
required prior to use in the field.
Do not assemble or fabricate the swivel into a system which fixes the
centerlines of both the male and the female components of the swivel.
Precision tolerances will not alleviate the hazard described in lefthand
paragraph. See page I for further information.
Use only Chiksan swivels specifically designated and identified for Sour
Gas service for handling these fluids. Consult FMC Fluid Control
Division regarding swivel joints for sour gas service.
Include rated working pressure limitations in written operating
procedures and train operators in the use of the procedures.
Used or worn swivels must be destroyed to prevent inadvertent or
intentional reuse and potential injury to subsequent users. Do not attempt
repair. A Preventive Maintenance and Inspection Program must be
initiated. (See page 2.)
The use of inhibitors in these fluids and thorough flushing of swivels
immediately after use is required to minimize damage. See Swivel Life
and Preventive Maintenance for important requirements.
Inspect swivels frequently in the area of the leak detector port or grease
seal. Immediately discontinue use and maintain swivel per Repacking
Instructions if leaks are detected. See Leak Detection feature and
explanation of purpose on page 1.
In most cases, special swivels and special precautions are necessary to
avoid misapplication and potential hazards. Do not use swivels in these
applications without specific recommendations from FMC. Consult FMC
Fluid Control. See paragraphs on Submerged Applications, Temperature
Limitations, and General Service on pages 1 and 2.
Avoid conditions which expose pressurized swivel joints to impact loads.
FMC Corporation
Fluid Control Division
Web: www.fmcenergysystems.com
Email: fluid_control@fmc.com
Fluid Control Headquarters
FMC Fluid Control
6677 North Gessner Road
Houston, TX 77040
Phone: (1) 713/510-6800
Fax: (1) 713/510-6803
Manufacturing Facility
FMC Fluid Control
2825 West Washington
P.O. Box 1377
Stephenville, TX 76401
Toll Free: 800/772-8582 (U.S.)
Phone: (1) 254/968-2181
Fax: (1) 254/968-5709
Eastern
FMC Fluid Control
130 St. Nazaire Road
Broussard, LA 70518
P.O. Box 3091
Lafayette, LA 70505
Phone: (1) 318/837-9263
Fax: (1) 318/837-5844
Western
FMC Fluid Control
1675 Broadway, Suite 1800
Denver, CO 80202
Phone: (1) 303/623-4622
Fax: (1) 303/623-7347
West Texas
FMC Fluid Control
3500 West County Road North
Odessa, TX 79764
Phone: (1) 915/550-2084
FAX: (1) 915/366-8538
Copyright 1984, FMC Corporation
Printed in U.S.A., SS 10M, 5-84
Scotland
FMC Corporation (U.K.) Ltd.
Fluid Control
Wellington Road Industrial Park
Wellington Circle
Aberdeen AB12 3JG, Scotland
Phone: 011 + 44 + 1224/898-555
Fax: 011 + 44 + 1224/249-460
Singapore
FMC South East Asia Pte. Ltd.
149 Gul Circle
Singapore 629605
Phone: 011 + 65/ 862-3659
Fax: 011 + 65/ 861-8251
United Arab Emirates
FMC International S.A.
Al Moosa Tower, 17th Floor
Box 3228
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Phone: 011 + 971 + 4/310-948
Fax: 011 + 971 + 4/310-950
Mexico
FMC Equipo Petrolero S.A. de C.V.
Carretera a Buena Vista km. 2.8
Ranchera Miguel Hidalgo
Villahermosa, Tabasco, Mexico
Phone: 011 + 52 + 93/50-0123
Fax: 011 + 52 + 93/50-1661
Venezuela
FMC Services and Supplies Occidente, S.A.
Fluid Control Division
Avenida Intercomunal
Diagonal Carretera "L"
Sector Los Morochas, #202
Cludad Ojeda Edo Zulia, Venezuela
Phone: 011 + 58 + 65-26901
Fax: 011 + 58 + 65-23406