Pipe Flanges 101

Summary

This video provides an overview of pipe flanges, detailing the six most common types: weld neck, slip-on, socket weld, lap joint, threaded, and blind. It explains their uses in various applications, such as high-pressure or low-temperature environments. Additionally, the video covers five types of flange faces, including flat face, raised face, ring joint, male and female, and tongue and groove, each suited for different sealing needs. Understanding these flange types and faces is essential for making the right connections in piping systems. Dixon offers expert assistance for specific applications.

Takeaways

• 😀 Pipe flanges are used to connect pipes with gaskets and bolts to form secure joints in piping systems.
• 😀 The six most common types of pipe flanges are weld neck, slip-on, socket weld, lap joint, threaded, and blind.
• 😀 Weld neck flanges have a tapered hub that reinforces the pipe, ideal for high-pressure and high-temperature applications.
• 😀 Slip-on flanges slide over the pipe end and are welded in place, suited for low-pressure and low-temperature systems.
• 😀 Socket weld flanges are easy to install and best for small-diameter pipes in low-pressure and low-temperature settings.
• 😀 Lap joint flanges consist of a stub end welded to the pipe and a backing flange, often used where space is limited or frequent disassembly is needed.
• 😀 Threaded flanges are screwed into male-threaded pipes without welding, typically used in air and water utility services, but not for high-pressure or high-temperature systems.
• 😀 Blind flanges are used to close the ends of pipes or valves, or for pressure testing, and can handle high-pressure capacity.
• 😀 Flange faces determine the gasket type needed for a proper seal. There are five common types of flange faces: flat, raised, ring joint, male and female, and tongue and groove.
• 😀 Flat face flanges have an even surface that contacts most of the gasket, while raised face flanges have a raised area around the bore.
• 😀 Ring joint flanges are used in high-pressure and high-temperature applications and feature a groove to maintain a metal gasket seal.

Q & A

What is the primary function of pipe flanges in a piping system?

Pipe flanges are used in piping systems to create a connection between two pipes or a pipe and a valve, using gaskets and bolts to secure the joint.

What are the six most common types of pipe flanges?

The six most common types of pipe flanges are weld neck, slip-on, socket weld, lap joint, threaded, and blind.

What is the key characteristic of a weld neck flange?

A weld neck flange features a long, tapered hub that helps transfer stress from the flange to the pipe, providing reinforcement, making it ideal for high-pressure and high-temperature applications.

In what kind of applications are slip-on flanges typically used?

Slip-on flanges are used in low-pressure and low-temperature applications, as they are easy to install by sliding over the pipe and welding in place.

How are socket weld flanges installed?

Socket weld flanges are installed by placing the pipe into the flange and welding it into place. They are best suited for small pipe diameters in low-pressure and low-temperature systems.

What is a lap joint flange and where is it most useful?

A lap joint flange consists of a stub end welded to the pipe and a backing flange that moves freely over the pipe. This type is useful in spaces where frequent disassembly is required and helps with bolt hole alignment for easy installation.

What is the main feature of threaded flanges and their typical usage?

Threaded flanges have internal threads that match the male threads of the pipe, requiring no welding. They are typically used in air and water utility services but are not suitable for high-pressure or high-temperature applications.

What is the purpose of a blind flange?

A blind flange is used to close the ends of pipes or valves, or for flow pressure testing. It can handle high pressure and allows for easy removal, offering access to a line even after sealing.

What are the five main types of flange faces and their purposes?

The five main types of flange faces are flat face, raised face, ring joint, male and female, and tongue and groove. They determine the gasket used to maintain a secure seal.

How do raised face flanges differ from flat face flanges?

Raised face flanges have a raised portion around the bore, which requires a specific gasket, while flat face flanges have a flat surface that contacts a full face gasket.