Types of Flanges and Their Uses

Flange is an essential component in piping systems used to connect pipes, valves, pumps, and other equipment to form a reliable and efficient piping network. Flange makes it easy to install, dismantle, and maintain piping systems. This article will discuss the various types of flanges and their uses in industry.

Definition of Flange
A flange is a disc-shaped plate with a hole in the center and usually has bolt holes around it to connect two sections of pipe or other equipment. Flanges are usually made of metal such as steel, stainless steel, or cast iron, but can also be made of plastic or other materials according to application needs.

Types of Flange
Weld Neck Flange (WN Flange)
Use: Used for high-pressure and high-temperature applications. The long neck of this flange provides additional strength to the joint and reduces stress concentrations.
Applications: Oil and gas, petrochemical, and power generation industries.

Slip-On Flange (SO Flange)
Use: Easy to install by sliding the flange onto the pipe and then welding it into place. This flange is suitable for low-pressure applications.
Application: Piping system with medium pressure and temperature.

Blind Flange (BL Flange)
Use: Used to close the end of the piping system or pressure opening on the tank. Does not have a hole in the middle.
Application: Temporary or permanent closure of the end of the pipe, inspection, and maintenance.

Socket Weld Flange (SW Flange)
Use: This flange has a groove hole to insert the pipe before welding. Suitable for pipes with small diameters and high pressure applications.
Application: Oil and gas industry, chemicals, and hydraulic systems.

Threaded Flange (TH Flange)
Use: Has internal threads that allow installation without welding. Suitable for low pressure and low temperature applications.
Application: Piping installation in fire-prone areas because it does not require welding.

Lap Joint Flange (LJ Flange)
Use: Used in conjunction with stub ends. Facilitates disassembly for inspection and cleaning.
Application: Piping systems that often require disassembly and maintenance.

Orifice Flange
Use: Used in conjunction with an orifice plate to measure the flow rate of fluid in a pipe. Equipped with an access hole for pressure.
Application: Piping systems in the oil and gas industry for flow measurement.

Spectacle Blind Flange
Use: In the form of a pair of flanges connected together, one end is a blank plate and the other is a ring. Used to separate or connect two parts of the pipe without disrupting operations.
Application: Maintenance and operations that require temporary separation of the pipe.

Use of Flange in Industry
Connectivity and Integration
Flanges are used to connect pipes with various equipment such as valves, pumps, and tanks, allowing flexible integration into the piping system.

Maintenance and Inspection
Flanges make it easy to dismantle parts of the piping system for inspection, cleaning, and routine maintenance.

Safety
Flanges designed for high pressure and temperature provide a safe and reliable connection, reducing the risk of leakage and damage.

Design Flexibility
A variety of flange types allow flexibility in piping system design to meet a variety of operational needs and engineering specifications.

Flanges are essential components in piping systems that ensure safe and reliable connectivity. With various types of flanges such as weld neck, slip-on, blind, socket weld, threaded, lap joint, orifice, and spectacle blind, flanges have wide applications in various industries including oil and gas, petrochemical, power generation, and others. Selecting the right flange type is essential to ensure efficiency, safety, and ease of maintenance of piping systems.

Find Quality Flange at PT Intisumber Bajasakti!
Do you need high-quality flanges for your piping system? PT Intisumber Bajasakti provides various types of flanges that suit your needs and specifications. We offer high-quality products at competitive prices.

Contact us at (021) 66675999 or visit our website at intisumberbajasakti.com for more information and the best deals. Don't hesitate to contact us for your flange needs!

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