Different types of flanges with varying properties fit into different applications in industrial piping systems. One such type is the socket weld flange, used when welding is required. A socket weld flange is mainly used in high-pressure and high-temperature applications and is designed to make a smooth transition from pipe to flange bore. In this blog, we delve into socket weld flanges&#; properties, composition, and uses to help you understand why they are preferred in some piping systems.

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What are Socket Weld Flanges?

Socket Weld Flanges are a type of pipe flange that attaches to the pipe by inserting it into a recessed flange area and welding it in place. They offer an alternative to slip-on, threaded, or lap joint flanges for low-pressure applications. A Socket Weld requires precisely machined ends that match the stated dimensions for proper fitment.

Properties of Socket Weld Flanges:

Socket weld flanges have a unique design that allows them to handle high-pressure situations effectively. The flange comprises a round plate with bolt holes and a raised neck with a socket or cavity fitting the pipe. The socket provides sufficient welding space and helps create a strong, leak-proof joint. One of the significant benefits of socket weld flanges is that they offer excellent flow rates due to their smooth bore transition from the pipe into the flange. They can also handle high-pressure situations, making them an ideal choice for various applications.

Composition of Socket Weld Flanges:

Notably, socket weld flanges are fabricated from different materials to meet various industries&#; specific requirements. Some of the standard materials used are Carbon Steel, Stainless Steel, inner metal, Nickel, and Titanium, depending on the fluid being conveyed and the temperature and pressure of the system. The composition also dictates the resistance of the flange against corrosion, erosion, and environmental factors.

Uses of Socket Weld Flanges:

Socket weld flanges are commonly used in high-pressure piping systems such as chemical processing, petrochemical refining, oil and gas, and power generation systems. These flanges efficiently connect pipes to valves, fittings, and equipment while offering high reliability and safety. In some instances, socket weld flanges are used in small-bore piping systems such as steam, air, water, and gas pipelines where high pressure and temperatures exist.

Advantages of Socket Weld Flanges:

One of the benefits of using socket weld flanges is that they provide a permanent and robust seal. They can easily fit into tight spaces where flange welding is challenging. The socket weld flange is also structurally sound because its design can withstand extreme vibration, pressure, and temperature fluctuations. They are also easier to machine than other flanges and provide cost-effective solutions in high-pressure piping systems.

Conclusion:

Socket weld flange has been around a lot in the industry and people are wondering about the reason for their popularity.

Here in this blog, we will dive deep into learning about socket weld flanges. Before anything, let&#;s first understand its meaning and, how it is distinct from other weld connections.

Meaning of socket weld flange

Socket-weld pipe flanges are typically useful on smaller sizes of high-pressure pipes. These pipe flanges are attached by inserting the pipe into the socket end and applying a fillet weld around the top. It allows for a smooth bore and better flow of the gas or fluid inside the pipe.

Slip-on pipe flange with a hub is a more common connection that comes with published specifications that range from ½&#; thru 24&#;.

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Socket weld pipe flanges are usually provided with an RTJ facing, flat face, or raised face. When a raised face is necessary for socket weld pipe flanges, the standard height is 1/16&#; for socket weld pipe flanges under 400#. For socket weld pipe flanges of 400# and up, the standard socket weld pipe flange raised face height is ¼&#;.

In simple words, a socket weld is a pipe bridging component installed into a recessed area of fitting or flange. The socket can be considered a female member of the joint that harbors the pipe. It is also known as a fillet weld joint as it can be secured by only one fillet.

Applications of socket weld flanges

Socket weld flanges make a good fit for non-critical operations. It is a perfect choice to join small-diameter piping less than 2 NPS. It is not usually usable at daunting pressures and temperatures as it can only resist about half of the forces than that of buttweld.

These possess characteristics where it holds leakage resistance very high along with moderate structural strength. It is why, industries that carry dangerous, toxic liquids employ socket weld fittings.

Apart from this, it has moderate pressure tolerates that may help rank better than tee joint, edge joint, or lap joint. Therefore, it is preferably adopted in pressure conditions lesser than 600 psi. Along with slip ons, these socket connections do not exist per ASME/ANSI B16.5 in # class

Useful in several industrial operations

Good calibration since the fitting is fixed and no additional fastening is required. As it does not require exclusive preparation to secure connections, the costs are cut down to half compared to the butt weld joints.

Apart from that socket weld also offers high strength. Thereby, it is leakage-proof compared to any other type of connection. A socket weld can be either a raised face or a flat-face linkage.

Advantages of Socket weld flanges

Here are some advantages of socket weld flanges:

• It can replace the threaded flange to minimize the risk of leakage.
• It doesn&#;t require beveling before welding.
• Welding work outside the pipe won&#;t penetrate the pipe bore.
• It is recommended for applications where internal welding operations are tough. The sock-welded construction eliminates internal pockets while avoiding the warpage of welding heat and damage to the flange face caused by the weld spatter. It also has the same internal pressure as the sliding on the flange with better fatigue life.

Downsides of socket weld flanges

The only bargain here is that the socket weld flange has a gap requirement of 1.6mm towards the pipe portion that receives the joint, i.e., at the bottom of the pipe.

It is done to compensate for the expansion that happens during the thermal setting at the joint. However, the setting of excess metal at the joint makes the socket weld vulnerable and creates a hotspot for stress at the particular portion.

Conclusion