What is a flange and its types?
Flanges are an essential component in piping and mechanical systems, serving as a connection point between two pipes or between a pipe and a valve, pump, or another piece of equipment.
At Arcellor Controls, we are a top manufacturer, supplier, and exporter of flanges that cater to a diverse range of industries and applications. Our extensive selection of flange types and sizes is designed to meet the highest industry standards and codes, ensuring dependable and efficient performance.
In this blog post, we'll discuss what flanges are, the different types of flanges available, and their key characteristics, applications, and specifications.
What is a Flange?
A flange is a ring-shaped component that is designed to connect to the end of a pipe, valve, or other equipment. The flange creates a leak-proof seal between the connected components and allows for easy installation, maintenance, and replacement of parts.
There are several types of flanges, each with its own unique features and applications. Let's take a look at the most common types of flanges:
- Weld Neck Flange
Weld Neck flanges are named after their neck-like projection that is welded to the end of a pipe. This type of flange is widely used in high-pressure and high-temperature applications, as the long neck provides added stability and resistance to deformation.
Characteristics:
- Long neck for added stability
- Welded to the end of the pipe
- Widely used in high-pressure and high-temperature applications
Mainly used in various applications such as:
- Petrochemical plants
- Refineries
- Power plants
- Slip-on Flange
Slip-on flanges have a hole in the center that allows them to slip over the end of a pipe, making installation quick and easy. They are commonly used in low-pressure applications and are less expensive compared to other types of flanges.
Characteristics:
- Easy to install
- Less expensive compared to other types of flanges
- Commonly used in low-pressure applications
Mainly used in various applications such as:
- Water treatment plants
- HVAC systems
- Agriculture
- Threaded Flange
Threaded flanges have threads on the inside circumference, allowing them to be screwed onto the end of a pipe. This type of flange is often used in low-pressure applications, as it provides a secure and leak-proof connection.
Characteristics:
- Screwed onto the end of the pipe
- Provides a secure and leak-proof connection
- Commonly used in low-pressure applications
Mainly used in various applications such as:
- Plumbing systems
- Fire protection systems
- Agricultural irrigation systems
- Blind Flange
Blind flanges are used to blank off the end of a piping system or to isolate a section of a pipeline. They are similar in appearance to a flat plate, with bolt holes for attaching to other flanges.
Characteristics:
- Used to blank off the end of the piping system
- Similar in appearance to a flat plate
- Bolt holes for attaching to other flanges
Mainly used in Various applications such as:
- Piping systems
- Oil and gas pipelines
- Chemical plants
- Lap Joint Flange
Lap Joint flanges are similar in appearance to a stub end, with a flat surface and a radiused shoulder. They are used in combination with a lap joint stub end and are commonly used in low-pressure piping systems.
Characteristics:
- Used in combination with a lap joint stub end
- Have a Flat surface and radiused shoulder
- Commonly used in low-pressure piping systems
Mainly used in various applications such as:
- Piping systems in petrochemical plants
- Refineries
- HVAC systems
Standards and Specification of Flanges
We at Arcellor Controls are well-known ASME B16.5 Flange Manufacturers in India, ANSI B16.5 standard covers Pipe Flanges and Flanged Fittings for sizes NPS ½” to 24” for above NPS 26” to 60” it should be as per ASME B16.47.Each specification further delineates flanges into pressure classes: 150, 300, 400, 600, 900, 1500, and 2500 for B16.5.
Materials that are available in flanges.
- Carbon steel
- Stainless steel
- Nickel Alloy
- Copper Alloy
- Inconel
- Monel
- Duplex, and Super duplex
Selecting the right flanges for your project!
When selecting a flange for your application, it is important to consider the specifications and standards that apply. Some of the key specifications to consider include:
Material: The material of the flange must be suitable for operating conditions, including temperature, pressure, and corrosive environments.
Size: The size of the flange must match the size of the pipe or equipment it will be connected to.
Pressure rating: The pressure rating of the flange must be suitable for the operating conditions, as higher pressure requires a higher-rated flange.
Bolt hole diameter: The bolt hole diameter must match the size of the bolts used to secure the flange to the pipe or equipment.
It is also important to consider industry standards and codes, such as ASME, ANSI, and API, which specify the dimensions, materials, and testing requirements for flanges.
Final Thoughts.
Flanges are an important component in piping and mechanical systems, offering a secure and leak-proof connection between pipes and equipment. With a variety of types and specifications available, it is important to choose the right flange for your application, taking into consideration the operating conditions, industry standards, and customer requirements. Arcellor Control is here to help, providing high-quality flanges that meet your needs and exceed your expectations.
As a global company, we supply flanges to countries such as Indonesia, Brazil, the USA, the UK, France, Germany, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Kazakhstan, among others. With a strong focus on customer satisfaction and on-time delivery, we strive to meet the needs of our customers, no matter where they are located.
