Mar. 17, 2025
Offering a reliable way to connect pipe systems with the various equipment, valves, and other components of virtually any processing system, flanges are the second most used joining method after welding.
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Using flanges adds flexibility when maintaining piping systems by allowing for easier disassembly and improved access to system components.
A typical flanged connection is comprised of three parts:
In most cases, there are specific gasket and bolting materials made from the same, or approved materials as the piping components you wish to connect. Stainless Steel flanges are some of the most common. However, flanges are available in a wide range of materials so matching them with your needs is essential.
Other common flange materials include Monel, Inconel, Chrome Moly, and many others depending on the application.
The best option for your needs will depend on both the system in which you intend to use the flange and your specific requirements.
Flanges are not a one-type-fits-all sort of solution. Sizing aside, matching the ideal flange design to your piping system and intended usage will help to ensure reliable operation, a long service life, and optimal pricing.
Here's a look at the most common flange types available.
Flange design is only the start when considering the ideal flange for your piping system. Face types are another characteristic that will have a major impact on the final performance and service life of your flanges.
Facing types determine both the gaskets needed to install the flange and characteristics related to the seal created.
Common face types include:
Many face types also offer one of two finishes: serrated or smooth.
Choosing between the options is important as they will determine the optimal gasket for a reliable seal.
In general, smooth faces work best with metallic gaskets while serrated faces help to create stronger seals with soft material gaskets.
Apart from the functional design of a flange, flange dimensions are the most likely factor to impact flange choices when designing, maintaining, or updating a piping system.
However, you must consider how the flange interfaces with the pipe and the gaskets in use to ensure proper sizing.
Common considerations include:
Each of the above characteristics will have an influence on how the flange performs across a range of processes and environments.
So how can you tell which flanges are up to the task and which are not?
Flanges are often classified based on their ability to withstand temperatures and pressures.
This is designated using a number and either the '#', 'lb', or 'class' suffix. These suffixes are interchangeable but will differ based on the region or vendor.
Common classifications include:
Exact pressure and temperature tolerances will vary by materials used, flange design, and flange size. The only constant is that in all cases, pressure ratings decrease as temperatures rise.
To help make comparison easier, flanges fall under global standards established by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) -- ASME B16.5 & B16.47.
If you're attempting to replace or verify existing parts, all flanges must include markers -- typically on their outer perimeter -- to aid in the process.
These markers also follow a strict order:
This guide offers a solid foundation of the basics of flange design and how to choose the ideal flange for your piping system. However, with a wide range of stainless steel flanges and other flange materials available, it is impossible to list every configuration, detail, or consideration.
Should you have questions, the Technical Sales Experts at Unified Alloys are ready to help. Serving industries and businesses across North America and Canada for more than 40 years, we understand the complexities of alloy piping and the needs of your industry. Call us today for additional information and to find the ideal flange, piping, and components for your next project.
The flange industry is wide, and it offers customers a reliable way to connect pipe systems with the various valves, equipment, and other components of virtually any processing system. Flanges are the second most used joining method after welding.
I want to know moreWhen we talk about the flange meaning, we can say that these elements are a crucial component in piping and engineering systems. The flange meaning refers to a flat, disc-shaped piece used to connect pipes, valves, pumps, or other equipment.
Flanges provide easy access for cleaning, inspection, or modification of a system. They are typically bolted together and sealed with gaskets to ensure a tight connection.
Understanding what is a flange is essential in industries like construction, oil, and gas. There are different types of flange, such as weld neck, slip-on, and blind, to meet different requirements.
I want to know moreIf you use flanges, it adds flexibility when you need to maintain piping systems. It also allows for easy disassembly and improved access to system components.
A typical flanged connection is composed of three parts:
In many cases, specific bolting and gasket materials are made from the same or approved materials as the piping components you wish to connect. For example, stainless steel flanges are the top choice among some of the most common flanges. However, flanges are available in a wide range of materials, so matching them with your needs is crucial.
Other common flange materials include Chrome Moly, Inconel, Monel, and many others, depending on the application.
The best option for your needs depends on the system in which you intend to use the flange and your specific requirements.
The company is the world’s best Flanges Manufacturer supplier. We are your one-stop shop for all needs. Our staff are highly-specialized and will help you find the product you need.
I want to know moreFlanges are not a one-type-fits-all kind of solution. If we keep the sizing aside, matching the ideal flange design to your piping system and intended usage will help to ensure optimal pricing, a long service life, and reliable operation.
Here are the most commonly available flange types:
It is also known as a screwed flange and has a style with thread inside. The flange bore fits with the matching male thread on the fitting or pipe.
The threaded connections mean you can avoid welding in many use cases. If you simply match the threading o the pipes, you wish to connect.
Ideal for small pipe diameters with different pressure and temperature ratings scenarios, socket-weld flanges feature a connection where you place the pipe into the flange and then secure the connection with a single multi-pass fillet weld.
As a result, it makes the style simpler to install compared to other welded flange types while avoiding the limitations associated with the threaded ends.
Slip-on flanges are quite common and are available in large-size ranges. It can accommodate systems with high flow rates and throughput.
You intend to connect if you match the flange to the outer pipe diameter. Installation is slightly more as you will need to fillet the weld on both sides to secure the pipe flange.
Lap joint flanges require butt welding of the stub end to the fitting or pipe with a backing flange to create a flanged connection.
The design makes this style popular for use in systems with physical systems or space that requires frequent maintenance and dismantling.
Weld neck flanges need butt welding for installation. However, its performance, integrity in the systems with multiple repeat bends, and the ability to use them at high temperatures and high pressure make them a top choice for processing piping.
I want to know moreUseful for isolation or terminating piping systems, blind flanges are essentially boltable blank discs.
When you install them properly and combine them with the correct gaskets, it can achieve an outstanding seal that is easy to remove when needed.
The flanges types listed above are quite common. However, various specialized flange types are available to suit various environments and uses.
Other options include reducing flanges, orifice, expanding flanges, weld flanges, and nipo flanges.
The design is just a start when you consider the ideal flange for your piping system. Face types are another characteristic that greatly impacts your flanges' service life and final performance.
Facing types determine the gaskets required to install the characteristics and the flange related to the seal created.
I want to know moreMost face types offer one of the two finishes: smooth or serrated. Choosing between the options is crucial as it will determine the optimal gasket for a reliable seal.
In general, smooth faces work best with metallic gaskets, while serrated faces help create stronger seals with soft material gaskets.
Apart from the functional flange design, flange dimensions are the most likely factor that impacts the flange choices when updating, maintaining, or designing a piping system.
First, however, you must consider how the flange interfaces with the pipe and the gaskets in use to ensure proper sizing.
The above characteristics will influence how the flange performs across various environments and processes.
Flanges are often classified based on their ability to withstand pressures and temperatures. It is designated using a number and either 'class,' 'lb,' or '#' suffix. These suffixes are interchangeable but will differ based on the vendor or region.
To facilitate comparison, it should be noted that there are different flange standards that are governed by the global standards established by ASME (American Society of Mechanical Engineers): ASME B16.5 and B16.47.
If you are attempting to verify or replace the existing parts, all flanges must include the markers, typically on their outer perimeter, to aid in the process.
The above guide offers you a solid foundation of the basics of flange design and how to choose the ideal flange for your piping system. However, with a wide range of stainless steel flanges or other available flange materials, it is impossible to list every consideration, detail, or configuration.
You can contact Texas flange if you want the best quality flanges or have any queries regarding the flange function.
FAQs
What are flanges?
Flanges are mechanical components used to connect pipes, valves, pumps, or other equipment in a piping system. They provide easy access for cleaning, inspection, or modifications.
What is a steel flange?
A steel flange is a flange made from steel, known for its strength, durability, and resistance to corrosion. Steel flanges are commonly used in high-pressure and industrial applications.
What types of flanges are there?
Common types of flanges include weld neck flange, slip-on flange, blind flange, threaded flange and socket weld flange.
What is a metal flange?
A metal flange is a flange made from metallic materials, such as steel, stainless steel, or aluminum. It ensures robust connections in piping systems across various industries.
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