Raised Vs. Flat Faced Flanges and Their Uses

As you might have guessed, one of the significant differences between a raised face flange and a flat face flange is its shape. A raised face flange has a raised area that surrounds the pipe bore, whereas the flat faced one does not. Continue reading to find out some more details about the differences between these two pipe flanges.

What are Raised Faced Flanges?

A raised face flange is the most common of the pipe flanges. It has a raised surface where the gasket is positioned above the bolt circle. To seal this type of flange face, you must compress a soft, flat, or semi-metallic gasket in the raised area between mating flanges. Raised face flanges are most common in process plants but are suitable for almost all applications.

In the next five years, there will be over 100 major projects along the Gulf Coast requiring flanges, piping, and various pipe fittings. These pipe flanges are ideal for high and low temperatures and pressures. Their purpose is to focus more pressure on the smaller gasket area to increase the pressure containment capabilities of the joint.

What are Flat Faced Flanges?

Just as their name suggests, flat face flanges do not have a raised area. Their entire surface is flat. The gasket paired with these pipe flanges has complete contact with the whole surface of the flange. These gaskets are generally made from materials like Viton or Ethylene-Propylene Diene Monomer (EPDM), which are non-metallic.

This flange intends to avoid the pressure that is put on the flange when the bolts are torqued. This bend is a point where fiberglass and cast iron flanges can break. The flat face flange eliminates that break. This type of flange is typically used in low-pressure water piping, low-temperature, and low-pressure environments.

When selecting pipe flanges, it’s essential that you know the application in which you want to use them. This knowledge enables you to choose the proper flange for the job. In addition, when dealing with pipe, pipe fittings, and flanges, it is essential to have the right tools for the job. If you are unsure, contact a professional to ensure you are working with the proper equipment.

As always, contact us at Lynco Flange & Fitting with all your questions, and we will make sure to connect your project with the right materials.

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