Here is a wide range of flanges such as steel flanges (black or galvanized), blind flanges, and weld flanges. Flanges are one of the most optimal solutions for pipe end connections that have bends and are subjected to very high lateral forces, which tend to loosen the joint.
The use of flanges makes it easier to maintain and repair the piping system. Instead of removing the entire pipe for inspection, a smaller part of the pipe can be examined to find the fault using a flange. The connection point at the flange allows for system reinforcement as well as easy cleaning and inspection of the pipe.
Remember gaskets for your flanges for additional protection against spills. Here we have universal gaskets, as well as gaskets for steam, chemicals, food, and rubber.
What is a flange?
A flange is a component used in many industries, and its function varies depending on its application. A general definition of a flange can be an edge or collar that is attached to a pipe or a plate. How the flange is connected to the pipe is determined by its end connection, and a fitting is used here.
You can assemble the two flanges using bolts, with a gasket placed between them to ensure effective sealing. Steel flanges are primarily used in the gas industry, oil industry, and chemical industry.
The flange can be placed either on the inside or outside, where it acts as this edge or collar as mentioned above. They are often used on hoses or pipes. Flanges are produced in various materials and colors, including black, galvanized steel, and stainless steel. This depends on their specific application, which also means that they are available in different sizes.
What different types of flanges are there?
There is a wide selection of flanges and flange types available on the market, ensuring that there is always a suitable flange for each individual pipe or hose. Among the flanges you can acquire are:
- Threaded flanges
- Weld flanges
- Flat flanges
- Blind flanges
A threaded flange is used in situations where welding is not desired. This may be necessary in certain cases. However, this does not mean that welding is never used in connection with threaded flanges.
Weld flanges, as the name suggests, are used when welding is required. They are often used in pipe joints. There are also different variants here. The most common is the weld neck flange, which is used in high-pressure applications, among other things. For low-pressure applications, a type called slip-on flange is used. A slip-on flange is popular due to its lower production costs.
Advantages of using flanges
Although there are specific applications where flanges are the only practical choice, flanges also bring advantages to the piping system. This applies, for example, in larger applications where flanges are often better able to connect pipes and component ports compared to adapters or threaded fittings. It can be said that flanges are often suitable for the following situations:
- Easy assembly in tight spaces where wrenches do not have enough room, if you install traditional flange fittings.
- Difficult-to-access areas where you need flexibility, allowing you to eliminate the need for adapters in the hose or pipe.
- Pipe connections, pipes, or large hose connections where you find high pressures, vibrations, or shock pressures that can easily damage traditional large hydraulic fittings.
- Creating flange connections allows for easy maintenance - typically in metal pipes or continuous pipes.
- Reducing the risk of components loosening in strict hydraulic applications.
Dimensions
The size of flanges varies depending on the type, and each flange type has a standard dimension. The dimensions of flanges are uniform across the world to ensure efficient repair, maintenance, and general trouble-free operation. Dimensions are usually published in both inches and millimeters.
Basic dimensions for a flange include outer diameter, number of bolts, and thickness. The bolts are typically located on the front outside of the flange. The gasket used between two flanges has the same bolt holes and size as the front of the flange.
Application of flanges
The use of flange connections under high pressure makes it easy to assemble pipe joints. The flanges come with a "plug and play" assembly, making it easy to reconnect and disconnect for maintenance of hoses and pipe connections. This can be done much faster and allows for a more accurate torque of the bolt - instead of trying to achieve the correct torque of a large fitting.
Flange fittings and flange connections are also less likely to loosen compared to a standard hydraulic fitting when the load is properly distributed around the flange.
Ahlsell is your supplier of flanges
We have a wide selection within pipes and fittings. Find what you need for your project in Ahlsell's webshop - available 24/7. Timely delivery is a given, and when you shop at Ahlsell, you can have your items delivered in several different ways. You can see which delivery method suits your preferences best here.
We have several years of experience with products from various leading manufacturers. If you need guidance, you will experience professional expertise and good service if you call our sales department or seek advice in one of our many stores across the country.
You can choose to have your orders delivered to the company, the construction site, or another location entirely. You can also simply reserve the products in your nearest Ahlsell store. After a short time, all your products will be ready for pick-up.