Apart from welding, steel pipe flanges are the most commonly used joining method. These flanges are available in a variety of styles and pressure classes. To classify them, the flanges are given a rating that ranges from 150 to 2500. Read on to find out more about the most common pipe flange sizes and uses.

Blind Pipe Flanges

This type of flange is manufactured without a bore and is used to blank off the ends of valves, pipes, and pressure vessel openings. These are the most overstressed flange types. There is no standardized inner diameter for blind pipe flanges, and they are mainly used for higher pressure temperature systems. Blind pipe flanges are used to block a segment of a pipe or nozzle that’s no longer in use.

Threaded Pipe Flanges

This type of flange is joined to pipes by a screwing mechanism. While they are mostly used without seam welds, sometimes small welds can be applied to boost the strength of the connections. Threaded pipe flanges are available in sizes of up to 4 inches. They also have a variety of pressure ratings. However, pressure is not a significant factor since they are mainly used in small piping and low-pressure applications like water and air utility services. Apart from these areas, threaded flanges are also a must in explosive areas. This means they are likely to be found on plants and gas stations.

Long Weld Neck Flange

This flange has a tapered hub for a neck that is extended, and it functions as a boring extension. You will find this flange type of vessels, columns, or barrels. There are two main types of long weld neck flanges which are the heavy barrel and the equal barrel flanges.

Slip-On Pipe Flanges

Slip-on Flanges are basically rings that are placed over the end of a pipe. Each flange will have its face extending from the end of the pipe by a distance that’s enough to install a welded bead to the pipe’s inner diameter. Slip-on flanges are slightly bigger than the pipes. They are suitable for low-pressure applications, and in some instances, they can be welded. You will find this flange type mostly in fluid pipelines.

These are the most common types of flanges. Each type is suitable for a particular application, from the blind pipe flanges to the long weld neck flange, mostly depending on how it can handle pressure. Some flanges will require a bit of welding, while some, like the threaded flange, can function without welding.

If you require flanges for your pipes but are not sure which ones to go for, contact Lynco Flange & Fitting today for immediate assistance.