Apprentice answer

What's the right torque or feel for tightening bolts on a TDC/TDF connection

1st YearDuct Assembly, Seams & JointsStop / Verify

Tighten them until the corner gaskets are uniformly compressed and the metal corners meet securely. * Do not over-torque with an impact gun until you warp or bend the duct flange out of shape. If you bend the flange, you create a massive air leak path that mastic cannot easily fix.

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Plain-English answer

Field checklist

Stop and verify the approved detail, manufacturer instructions, foreman direction, and project specs before touching it.
Tighten them until the corner gaskets are uniformly compressed and the metal corners meet securely. * Do not over-torque with an impact gun until you warp or bend the duct flange out...

Ask Foreman

Hey boss, I’m on hand tools & safety and need verification before I touch this: What's the right torque or feel for tightening bolts on a TDC/TDF connection? Do you want me to stop here and check the approved detail, submittal, or inspector/manufacturer requirement first?

Verify before acting

Use this as training guidance. The foreman, approved drawings, project specs, manufacturer installation instructions, employer safety policy, and AHJ/code requirements always control the final answer.

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