Introduction

In pipeline systems, flanges are a common connector used to connect steel pipes, pipe fittings or valves.

There are different types of flanges for different types of connections. Flange connections are easy to disassemble and repair. So how to choose flanges and what type of flanges to choose as connectors? Let’s take a closer look.

What Is a Flange End?

A flange is a pipeline connector, usually two flanges of the same model and standard are usually connected to each other by bolts, nuts and gaskets. The connection between the flange and the pipeline usually requires welding. Flange connections are usually for easy disassembly and maintenance. They are mostly used in oil and gas and chemical processing and water treatment systems.

Types of Flange Ends

Flanges have different types depending on their design and standards. There are usually the following 5 types.

1. Weld Neck Flange End

A flange with a long tapered hub.

It is mostly used in high-pressure systems.

It is mostly used in oil and gas pipeline systems.

2. Slip-On Flange End

It needs to be slid into the pipe during welding and welded from the inside and outside.

It can withstand lower pressure than the weld neck flange. And the installation is relatively simple.

3. Blind Flange End

It is mostly used at the end of the pipe to close the pipe. And it is convenient for subsequent eye pipe.

It is mostly used in pressure test pipes.

4. Lap Joint Flange End (Stub End)

This flange is composed of a short pipe end and a loose support end. It can be rotated for easy alignment during connection.

It is mostly used in pipes that need to be disassembled frequently.

5. Threaded Flange End

This flange has threads inside. If there are threads in the steel pipe, it can be tightened for connection.

It is mostly used in low-pressure pipes that cannot be welded. It is often used in small-diameter pipes.

What Is Flange Finish?

The surface treatment of the flange is the treatment of smoothness and other aspects. To ensure that it can be more tightly connected when connected.
Common surface treatments include:

Surface treatment: used to treat the smoothness of the surface for tight connection.

Serrated surface treatment: serrated treatment is performed according to the flange standard to facilitate a tighter fit of the metal gasket.

Convex surface treatment: a common type of surface treatment that can improve the sealing of the flange itself.

What Is the Purpose of a Flange End?

The main functions are as follows:

1. Easy to disassemble: pipeline disassembly, assembly and maintenance are simpler.

2. Leakage prevention: flanges can be connected more tightly through gaskets.

3. High pressure and high temperature resistance: flanges have different specifications and grades, which can be suitable for a variety of environments.

4. High customization: flanges can be customized according to actual needs, materials, specifications and grades.

What Is the Flange Area?

The flange area refers to the area around the connection through bolts, nuts, etc. This place mainly determines the tightness of the connection.

Choosing the Right Flange End

How to choose the right flange? The above 4 aspects can give you a reference:

1. Pressure level: choose different pressure levels according to different needs.

2. Material: Choose the appropriate carbon steel or stainless steel according to whether it needs corrosion protection.

3. Size selection: Choose the flange size according to the pipe size.

4. Installation method: whether welding or threaded connection is required.

Summary

Flange end is a connection method, mainly connected to the pipeline through flange. It is mostly used to connect two steel pipes, or to connect elbows and steel pipes at bends. There are various types of flanges, including weld neck, slip-on, blind flange, lap flange and threaded flange. The material of the flange is also different.

How to choose specifically, customers need to refer to the pressure level, material and other aspects according to the actual use environment. To make the most perfect choice.