A steel flange is a forged or cast ring of steel that looks like a protruded rim that helps in easy attachment of different objects and increases strength. For example, it can be used to connect different sections of pipe or connect a pipe to a pressure vessel or pump.
A steel flange usually comes in round shape, but they can also come in square and rectangular shapes. Steel flanges are joined to the pipe by welding or threading and are designed for specific pressure levels.
The most common types of materials used for flanges are, carbon steel, alloy steel, stainless steel, nickel alloys, aluminum, copper, etc. It is important to consider the materials used in flanges prior to buying them as the structural integrity required in each type of application varies.
What are the types of flanges?
The main types of flanges are welding neck, long welding neck, slip-on, socket weld, threaded and blind flanges.
Welding neck flange
A welding neck flange comes with a long tapered hub that can be welded with a pipe. It is generally used in high pressure and high/low temperature applications. This is ideal in facilitating an unrestricted flow of fluid through the piping system.
Long welding neck
Long weld neck flanges come with an extended tapered hub which acts as a boring extension. They are generally used in vessels, columns or barrels.
Slip on flange
A slip on flange or hubbed flange is a compact flange that is connected to the pipe by a double weld, one inside and one outside the cavity of the flange. This double weld provides the durability to avoid leaks.
Socket weld
Socket weld flanges are used to connect to pipes with a single weld outside of the flange. They are suitable for small size, high pressure piping that do not transfer highly corrosive fluids.
Threaded flange
Threaded flanges come with taper pipe threads in its bore which fits on the pipe with matching male thread on the pipe. They are simple to use, yet not suitable for high temperature/high pressure applications.
Blind flange
A blind flange helps to block off a section of pipe that is not used. Blind flanges do not have a center hole, and are used to block or blind a pipeline/valve. Blind flanges have to undergo a high mechanical stress due to the system pressure.
If you would like to buy high-quality steel and steel accessories for your next steel project, contact Melsteel today. Give us a call and our friendly customer service team will be happy to assist you with your steel needs.