Inspect and correct the damaged flange before assembly: flange damaged during material handling. Bent rails/corners can prevent gasket compression and create leaks.
Fix damaged flange parts before assembly. A bent rail, corner, or flange face usually leaks or refuses to line up.
Ask when connector type, gasket, cleat/bolt schedule, pressure class, or manufacturer detail is unclear.
Watch out
Do not force a damaged flange together and bury the issue.
Check
Inspect rail/corner/flange face
Straighten or replace damaged parts
Document damage if it arrived that way
Steps
Align the duct sections square.
Check flange faces, corners, gasket, and cleats/bolts.
Fix damage or missing parts before tightening.
Tighten or cleat evenly per project/manufacturer detail.
Focus on the actual issue: flange damaged during material handling.
Say this to your foreman
In Rectangular Duct Assembly: TDC / Ductmate / Flanges, I'm looking at: Flange damaged during material handling. What should I verify before I cut, drill, seal, cover, move, or install?