Stainless Steel Flange is a versatile component used in various industries and applications. Flanges play a crucial role in connecting pipes, valves, pumps, and other equipment, ensuring a leak-free and secure connection. There are several types of stainless steel flanges, each designed for specific purposes and suitable for different environments.
1. Weld Neck Flange: This type of flange has a long tapered hub that helps reduce stress concentration at the base of the flange. It is commonly used in high-pressure and high-temperature applications, such as oil refineries, chemical plants, and power plants.
2. Slip-On Flange: This flange has a flat face and is easily slipped over the pipe. It is widely used in low-pressure applications where welding is not required. Slip-On flanges are common in water supply systems, HVAC, and plumbing systems.
3. Blind Flange: As the name suggests, this flange is solid and lacks a central opening. It is used to seal the end of a piping system or vessel, preventing the flow of fluids. Blind flanges find applications in oil and gas pipelines, offshore platforms, and pressure vessels.
4. Socket Weld Flange: This flange is connected to the pipe using a socket weld connection, providing a strong and durable joint. Socket weld flanges are commonly used in small-diameter, high-pressure piping systems, such as steam lines, oil and gas pipelines, and chemical plants.
5. Threaded Flange: These flanges have internal threads that allow them to be screwed onto the pipe without the need for welding. They are widely used in low-pressure, non-critical applications, such as water supply systems, irrigation systems, and fire protection systems.
6. Lap Joint Flange: Lap joint flanges consist of two parts – a stub end and a loose backing flange. They are used when frequent dismantling and assembly of piping systems are required. Lap joint flanges find applications in industries like chemical, pharmaceutical, and food processing.
7. Orifice Flange: This special flange is used in orifice meter applications, where differential pressure measurement is required. Orifice flanges are commonly found in oil and gas production, refining, and petrochemical industries.
8. Spectacle Blind Flange: These flanges are designed to temporarily seal the pipe, preventing flow through it. Spectacle blind flanges are commonly used in pipelines during maintenance activities, repairs, or when isolating portions of the system.
In summary, stainless steel flanges come in various types, including weld neck, slip-on, blind, socket weld, threaded, lap joint, orifice, and spectacle blind flanges. Each type has its own specific design and application, ranging from high-pressure and high-temperature environments to low-pressure and non-critical applications. The choice of flange type depends on factors such as the operating conditions, system requirements, and industry standards.