Pipe Flanges – What Are They and How Do They Work?

The second most used joining method after welding, flanges offer a reliable means of connecting pipe systems to various equipment, valves, and other components of any processing system.

It is easier to disassemble a piping system using flanges, which provides better access to the components.

Flanged connections typically consist of three parts:

• Flanges for pipes
• Gallbladder
• Bolting

There are usually specific gasket or bolt materials that are made from the same material, or from materials approved for piping connections. Most commonly found are stainless steel flanges. There are, however, many different materials available for flanges, so you need to match them to the application.

There are many other common flange materials, depending on the application, such as Monel, Inconel, and Chrome Moly.

Based on the system in which you intend to use the flange as well as your specific requirements, you will be able to determine the best option for you.

Fanatics And Types Of Flanges

An all-purpose flange cannot be the solution to every problem. Besides ensuring reliable operation, long service life, and optimal pricing, selecting the right flange design for your piping system will not only ensure the proper size.

The following is a list of the most common types of flanges.

Threaded Flanges

Screwed flanges have a threaded bore that fits into the pipe or fittings matching male thread. Many applications do not require welding due to the threaded connection. Match the threading of the pipe to the one you intend to connect.

Socket-Weld Flanges

With socket-weld flanges, you attach pipes into the flange and secure the connection with a fillet weld. This is ideal for smaller pipe diameters in low-temperature and low-pressure settings. This design makes installation easier than other types of welded flanges while avoiding thread-related limitations.

Slip-on Flanges

Various sizes of slip-on flanges are available to accommodate systems with greater output and flow rates. Flanges should be matched to the pipe’s outer diameter. The installation process is a little more difficult since you have to weld the flange to the pipe on both sides.

Lap Joint Flanges

A lap joint flange is a two-piece design requiring butt welding of the stub end to the pipe or fitting and a backing flange to complete the flanged connection. It is because of this design that this style is popular for applications requiring frequent installation and removal.

Weld Neck Flanges

Installation of weld neck flanges requires butt welding, just like that of lap joint flanges. They are, however, a popular choice for process piping due to their properties of integrity, performance in repeat bending systems, and ability to handle high pressures and high temperatures.

Blind Flanges

Blind flanges are essentially boltable blank discs used to terminate or isolate piping systems. By installing them properly and using the correct gaskets, they can produce a seal that is easy to remove when necessary.

Specialty Flanges

Above is a list of the most commonly used flange types. Nevertheless, there are several additional types of special flanges that can be used for differing applications. There are also nipo flanges, weld flanges, expanding flanges, orifices, and long weld necks.