A flange is a protruded rim or edge on a pipe, valve, or other object, typically used to increase strength or facilitate the attachment of pipes or fittings.
Flange is also known as flange convex disk or convex plate. It is a disk-shaped parts, generally used in pairs.It is mainly used between the pipe and the valve, between the pipe and the pipe and between the pipe and the equipment, etc. It is the parts connecting with sealing effect. There are many applications between these equipment and pipes, so the two planes are connected by bolts, and the connecting parts with sealing effect are called flange.
Flanges are commonly used in piping systems to connect pipes, valves, pumps, and other equipment. They provide a means for easy assembly and disassembly of components, as well as for inspection, modification, or cleaning of the system.
Generally, there are round holes on the flange to play a fixed role. For example, when using at the pipe joint, a sealing ring is added between the two flange plates. And then the connection is tightened with bolts. The flange with different pressure has different thickness and different bolts. The main materials used for the flange are carbon steel, stainless steel and alloy steel, etc.
There are several types of flanges, each designed for specific purposes. Here are some common types of flanges:
- Weld Neck Flange (WN):This type of flange is characterized by a long, tapered neck that is welded to the pipe. It is designed to transfer stress from the flange to the pipe, reducing the risk of leakage. Weld neck flanges are often used in high-pressure and high-temperature applications.
- Slip-On Flange (SO): Slip-on flanges have a slightly larger diameter than the pipe, and they are slipped over the pipe and then welded in place. They are easier to align and are suitable for low-pressure applications. There is another type of flange similar to it, called plate flange. The difference between the two lies in the presence or absence of a neck, which needs to be strictly distinguished.
- Blind Flange (BL): Blind flanges are solid disks used to block off a pipe or to create a stop at the end of a pipeline. They do not have a center hole and are used to seal the end of a piping system.
- Socket Weld Flange (SW): Socket weld flanges have a socket or female end that is used to receive the pipe. The pipe is inserted into the socket and then welded in place. They are used for smaller size pipes and high-pressure applications.
- Threaded Flange (TH): Threaded flanges have threads on the inner surface, and they are used with pipes that have external threads. They are suitable for low-pressure applications.
- Lap Joint Flange (LJ): Lap joint flanges are used with a stub end or a lap joint ring. The flange is freely moved over the pipe and then the stub end or lap joint ring is welded to the pipe. This type of flange allows for easy alignment of the bolt holes.
Post time: Dec-07-2023
