Flange Types
What Is a Flange?
An introduction to pipe flanges and how they work in industrial systems.
A flange is a mechanical joint component used to connect pipes, valves, pumps, and other equipment in a piping system. It consists of a disc-shaped body with a central bore (hole) sized to match the pipe and a ring of bolt holes around the perimeter. Two flanges are bolted face-to-face with a gasket compressed between them to form a leak-tight, pressure-retaining connection.
Flanged connections are preferred over permanent welded joints when the piping system needs to be disassembled for inspection, cleaning, repair, or equipment replacement. They are used extensively in petrochemical refineries, chemical plants, power stations, water treatment facilities, oil and gas production, and anywhere industrial piping operates under pressure.
Flanges are manufactured in standardized sizes (1/2" through 60" and larger), pressure classes (150 through 2500), and multiple material grades to suit virtually any service condition. The six primary flange types are weld neck, slip on, blind, socket weld, threaded, and lap joint. Flanges.IO supplies all types in all standard sizes and materials. Contact us to discuss your project requirements.
