Pipe Flange

Posted by max dsouza on April 8th, 2021

Pipe Flange

What is a Pipe Flange?

A pipe flange connects piping and components in a piping system by use of bolted connections and gaskets. Most commonly used flanges are weld neck flange, slip on flange, blind flange, socket weld flange, threaded flange and lap joint flange (RTJ Flange). This type of connection in a pipe flange allows for ease of disassembly and separation for repair and regular maintenance. Most common specification for carbon steel and stainless steel flange is ANSI B16.5 / ASME B16.5. 

MS flanges manufacturer are commonly used for industrial, commercial, and institutional application. Steel pipe flanges are available in variety of styles and pressure classes. Ms flanges are classified from 150 to 2500 # rating. In addition to specifying pressure class, certain flanges such as weld neck flange & socket weld flange also require specifying the pipe schedule. This ensures the pipe bore will match the bore of the weld neck or socket weld flange.

Steel Pipe Flange Types                                                    

Metal flanges are manufactured as per ASME B16.5. These flanges are also called ANSI Flanges. 

There are six commonly used flanges, also knows as ANSI Flange, ASME B16.5 Flange.

Threaded Flanges

Also known as a screwed flange, this style has a thread inside the flange bore which fits with the matching male thread on the pipe or fitting. The threaded connection means you can avoid welding in many use cases.  Simply match  threading to the pipes you wish to connect.

Socket-Weld Flanges

Ideal for smaller pipe diameters in low-temperature and low-pressure scenarios, socket-weld flanges feature a connection in which you place the pipe into the flange and then secure the connection with a single multi-pass fillet weld. This makes this style simpler to install than other welded flange types while avoiding the limitations associated with threaded ends.

Slip-on Flanges

Slip-on flanges are very common and are available in a large range of sizes to accommodate systems with higher flow rates and throughput. Simply match the flange to the outer diameter of the pipe you intend to connect. Installation is slightly more technical as you’ll need fillet weld both sides to secure the flange to the pipe.

Lap Joint Flanges

Featuring a two-piece design, lap joint flanges require butt welding of the stub end to the pipe or fitting with the use of a backing flange to create the flanged connection. This design makes this style popular for use in systems with limited physical space or systems which require frequent dismantling and maintenance.

Weld Neck Flanges

Are Like lap joint flanges, weld neck flanges require butt welding for installation. However, their integrity, performance in systems with multiple repeat bends, and the ability to use them in high-pressure and high-temperature systems make them a leading choice for process piping.

Blind Flanges

This are Used for terminating or isolating piping systems, blind flanges are essentially boltable blank discs. When installed properly and combined with the correct gaskets, they can achieve an outstanding seal which is easy to remove when needed.