What Are Flanges and Their Common Types?
Used to connect pipe systems to other pieces of piping or equipment, flanges are the second most popular method of assembly behind welding. Adding flexibility to pipe systems by improving ease of disassembly, three items that commonly comprise a flange are pipe flanges, gaskets, and bolting. Of these three components, when building a typical flanged connection, the materials that comprise the bolt and gasket are often the same. Capable of also being connected with parts made of certified materials, flanges are most often manufactured out of stainless steel. Other common, but not as frequently used, flanges include Monel, Inconel, Chrome Moly, and other types depending on the application. To better understand flanges, we will go over their common types, their intended purpose, and how they can be used to best fit your applications.
Threaded Flanges
Also known as screwed flanges, threaded flanges incorporate an inner lining of female threads within the flange’s bore. With the aid of such a lining, flanges and pipes with identical threading can be securely connected to one another; this firm connection rendering welding unnecessary. Due to this, threaded flanges are not suitable for systems requiring high-temperature and high-pressure demands.
Socket-Weld Flanges
Typically seen used for smaller piping, socket-weld flanges are often considered for low-temperature and low-pressure settings. Unlike a threaded flange, the socket-weld flange uses a single multi-pass fillet weld to securely connect a pipe to a flange connector.
Slip-on Flanges
Manufactured to fit machinery of varying sizes, slip-on flanges are a common connector option for many parts. As they are able to withstand higher amounts of stress, slip-on flanges can be used for systems with larger throughputs with ease. Like the socket-weld, this part requires a fillet weld on both sides of the part to remain securely connected to a pipe.
Lap Joint Flanges
Consisting of two parts, a lap joint flange is often considered for systems that are frequently dismantled or constructed within an environment with limited space. To secure a pipe to this particular connector, studs are inserted into premade holes atop the flange. From there, the butt-end of the studs can be welded to a backing flange to create a reliable connection.
Weld Neck Flanges
Similar to lap joint flanges, weld neck flanges require butt welding to join all parts together. A superior choice for systems that require high-temperature and high-pressure demands, weld neck flanges are capable of providing lasting structural integrity along with retaining optimal performance within systems containing multiple bends.
Blind Flanges
As opposed to combining two components together in order to continue a system, a blind flange is primarily used to create a tight seal or to terminate the end of a piping system. Resembling a disk, these items can be bolted to another piping flange for easy installation and removal.
When considering what types of flanges are best suitable for your piping, it is never too late to familiarize yourself with their different types and respective applications. If you are looking for top quality items listed with part names such as Flanges ASSY, pipe flanges, bushing flanges, or other related parts, look no further than ASAP AXIS. We are your trusted source for various flange assemblies, duct and flange parts, their components, and all types of aviation tools required for aircraft maintenance. Due to our quality control and export compliance, we operate with AS9120B, ISO 9001:2015, and FAA AC 00-56B certification and accreditation. If you would like to request a quote for your comparisons, you can submit an RFQ form as provided on our website. Upon receipt, a dedicated account manager will quickly review and respond with a personalized solution to your needs in just 15 minutes or less, 24/7x365.
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