Flanges

Flanges are an essential component of industrial metal, used in various industries such as oil and gas, chemical, and construction. They are essentially flat rings or collars that are welded, screwed, or bolted onto pipes or equipment to provide a secure, leak-proof connection. Flanges are made from various materials, including carbon steel, stainless steel, and copper-nickel alloys, depending on the application and the environment in which they will be used. They come in different shapes and sizes, with different finishes, and are designed to handle varying pressure and temperature levels. Industrial metal would be more reliable and efficient with flanges, making them a crucial aspect of almost all modern manufacturing industries.

Flanges are an indispensable part of the industrial metal landscape. They act as connectors between pipes, pumps, and valves, allowing for the efficient flow of liquids and gases. There are several types of flanges ranging from slip-on, weld neck, blind, socket weld, and screw, each with its unique properties and applications. Slip-on flanges are ideal for low-pressure applications, whereas weld neck flanges are suitable for high-pressure environments. Blind flanges, as their name suggests, are used to seal off pipelines temporarily. Flanges are typically made of industrial metals such as carbon, stainless and alloy steel, and brass and are famous for their resistance to corrosion, temperature, and high-pressure environments. Flanges are not only practical but can also be aesthetically pleasing, giving pipes and structures a polished finish. With their versatility and strength, flanges are integral components of the metalworking industry.

Types of Flanges: -

• Threaded Flanges: - The Threaded flanges have threads under their bore. They are also known as Screwed Flanges. The Thread is used to fix the pipes, which also have threading on their end. They are the easiest to fit Flanges but are not suitable for high-temperature applications. They are also not suggested for high-pressure applications.

• Slip-on Flanges: - Slip-on Flanges are made with holes that match the outer diameter of a pipe. The pipe is passed through the hole and fillet welded from both sides. Low pressure and low-temperature applications are suitable for this kind of flange joint. Slip-on flanges are generally forged and come with a hub. Large sizes are used to connect big bore pipes with storage tanks.

• Socket-Weld Flanges: -Usually used only for Low pressure and temperature applications, Socket-Weld Flanges have a female socket. A pipe is fitted through the female socket in the Flange.

• Lap-Joint Flanges: -Lap-joint flanges are made in two components, which include a stub-end and a loose backing flange. Lap-joint Flange is used for applications that require frequent dismantling. They are designed to not wear from frequent modifications.

• Blind-Flanges: - These Flanges are used as a termination point to a piping system. Blind-Flanges have a blank surface with a bolt point to fit a pipe.

• Spectacle blind flanges: Spectacle Blinds, generally referred to as SB, are Flanges that are applied to systems that require regular separation from their installation. Spectacle blinds are made from two discs, that are attached to each other. One of the discs in SB Flanges is a ring and the other is a solid plate.

• Long weld neck flanges: Long Neck Welding Flanges are made with a circular fitting and a bulging rim around the circumference. They are similar to standard Welding Neck flanges but with a particularly long neck. They are generally not used for pipes but in processing plants.

• Orifice Flange: Orifice Flanges are used to measure the flow rate of liquids or gases in the pipeline. They are used with orifice meters and are suitable for all intensive weld neck flanges with extra machining.

• Flat-Face flange: Flat Face Flanges frequently are used where casting is used to make mating flange or flanged fitting. Similar to a bolting circle face, they have a gasket surface in the same plane.

• Ring Type Joint: The ring Type Joint flange, generally known as RTJ, is made by putting some grooves cut on their faces. They seal when the Bolts are tightened. These bolts compress the gasket into the grooves. These Flanges are typically used for high pressure and high-temperature services.

• Raised Face: The Raised Face Flanges are high-pressure flanges that have a raised face due to gasket surfaces are raised above the bolting circle face. They are widely used in process plant applications because of their increased pressure containment capability.

• Tongue & Groove: The Touch and groove Flanges consist of two flanges, where one face consists a ring machined onto the flange and the other contains a depression matching the ring on the other. These are commonly found on pump covers and Valve Bonnets.

Special Considerations

There are several special considerations to take into account when selecting a flange:

• Firstly, you need to make sure the flange is compatible with the material it will be used on.
• Additionally, you should consider the ratings and pressure requirements of your application, as well as any applicable industry regulations.
• In addition, always check that the flange has an appropriate corrosion resistance rating for its intended application and environmental conditions (e.g., temperature and humidity).
• Finally, be sure to use appropriate gaskets or sealants for secure installation and proper functioning of the flange.

Flanges FAQs

How to test Flanges Industrial Metal?

The testing of flanges industrial metal requires various tests including visual inspections, leakage and joint rigidity tests, dimensional checks, and pressure monitoring.

How to identify grade Flanges Industrial Metal?

Grade flanges industrial metal can be identified by their material, pressure rating, and size.

Is Flanges Industrial Metal eco friendly?

Yes, flanges-industrial metal is an eco friendly product as it is composed of recycled or reclaimed materials.

Is it necessary to use gaskets with certain flanges?

Yes, in some cases it is necessary to use gaskets with flanges. This is especially true for higher pressure applications where a tight seal between two pipes needs to be established. Gaskets help prevent leaks, protect against corrosion and maintain a secure connection between the flange and the pipe.