Flanges are essential components within piping systems, especially systems set up for industrial use. They make pipe systems easier to maintain and service.

Piping systems have come a long way over the years. The first hydrocarbon pipelines appeared in China in 500 BC and were made of bamboo. Now, iron, steel, and other higher-grade materials are far more common. Of course, even with these advances, problems with flanges can still crop up. Fortunately, flange distributors and service providers can help you resolve these problems. Let’s examine some of the most common flange issues.

Selecting the Wrong Size

While this problem is relatively easy to avoid, it’s still an issue many companies face on a regular basis. If you select the wrong-sized flange, you might be tempted to try and make it work anyway. This is often a major mistake. You’re better off working with high-quality flange distributors to select the right-sized flange.

Wear and Tear

High-quality flanges will last for a long time in most situations. That said, like everything else, these components will slowly wear down over time. By keeping a close eye on your flanges, you can replace them before a critical failure occurs. This can save you time and prevent many serious issues.

Stripped and Worn Bolts

Many flanges rely on bolts to hold them together. These bolts can become worn off or stripped over time. When inspecting your piping, make sure you pay especially close attention to the flange bolts. If there’s an issue, you should address it as quickly as feasible. Replacing the bolts is often a fairly straightforward job.

Thermal Shocks

Metal will expand and contract as temperatures rise and fall. This will strain flanges, and over time, it can contribute to them breaking down. If your flanges operate in environments with frequently changing temperatures, you may want to inspect them more frequently. If you uncover signs of thermal shock, you should contact a flange distributor to get replacement parts.

Excessive Leaks

One of the most common flange issues is leaking. If your flanges are leaking, it could be due to another problem, like thermal shock or general wear and tear. No matter the root cause, it’s important to address leaks quickly. If you fail to act, the problem could get much worse. You might be able to patch the leak, but ultimately, you’ll want to replace or repair the flange.

Do you need help selecting the right flanges for your project? Want more advice on troubleshooting? As one of the leading flange distributors, we’re ready to help. Contact Lynco Flange & Fitting today to learn more!