Flanges

INDUSTRY ASSOCIATIONS

Flanges

Flanges are typically made from materials such as steel, stainless steel and various alloys, depending on the specific requirements of the application. The choice of flange type and material depends on factors like pressure, temperature, compatibility with the substances being transported, and structural demands. Proper flange design and installation are critical to ensuring the integrity and safety of the systems in which they are used.

A flange is a projecting flat rim, collar, or rib typically used to strengthen, attach, or support various objects or structures. Flanges come in various shapes, sizes, and materials and have diverse applications in different industries.

Flanges are defined in the ASTM A182 / A105 / A350 B564 Standard. These valuable fittings are available in many different shapes, dependent on the intended purpose:

SORF

A flange type that is slipped over the pipe and welded both inside and outside to provide strength and prevent leakage.

SWRF

A flange where the pipe is inserted into a recessed area and fillet welded for high-pressure and small-diameter applications.

BLRF

A flange used to close the end of pipes, valves, or pressure vessel openings, providing a tight seal.

Orifice

A specialized flange with an orifice plate for measuring the flow rate of fluids in a pipeline.

WNRF

A flange with a tapered neck that provides strong, leak-proof connections, ideal for high-pressure and high-temperature applications.

Specifications of Flanges

Standard ANSI, ASME, BS, DIN, JIS, EN
Dimension ANSI B16.5, ANSI B16.47, ANSI B16.36, ANSI B16.48, BS 4504, EN1092, UNI 2277/2278
Size ½" (15 NB) to 48" (1200NB)
Class 150 LBS, 300 LBS, 600 LBS, 900 LBS, 1500 LBS, 2500 LBS, DIN Standard ND-6,10, 16, 25, 40 Etc.
Flange Face Type Flate Face (FF), Raised Face (RF), Ring Type Joint (RTJ)
Materials Stainless Steel, Carbon Steel, Alloy Steel, High Nickel Alloys, Special Alloys, Copper Nickel, Titanium, Duplex & Super Duplex, Tantalum etc.
Specification for High Nickel Alloy ASTM B564 / ASME SB564
Specification for Alloy Steel ASTM A182 / ASME SA182
Specification for Duplex & Super Duplex ASTM A182 / ASME SA182
Specification for Stainless Steel ASTM A182 / ASME SA182
Specification for Carbon Steel ASTM A105, A350 / ASME SA105, SA350
Form SORF, BLRF, SWRF, WNRF, Orifice, Lap Joint, Spectacle Blind, Threaded Flanges.

Types of Flanges

Orifice Flange

Features a long tapered hub welded directly to the pipe. Suitable for high-pressure and high-temperature applications.

BLRF

Blind Raised Face, A solid flange used to seal the end of a pipeline or vessel, effectively blocking off an opening. It features a raised face for a tighter seal with a gasket, making it ideal for high-pressure systems. BLRF flanges are commonly used in maintenance, inspection, and as temporary closures in pipelines and pressure vessels. These flanges are designed for situations where access to the line or vessel may be needed in the future, allowing easy removal when necessary.

SWRF

Socket Weld Raised Face, A flange designed for small-diameter pipes, where the pipe is inserted into the flange’s socket and welded for a secure, leak-proof connection. The raised face helps create a tight seal when paired with a gasket. SWRF flanges are ideal for high-pressure systems where a smooth flow and strong joint integrity are required. They are typically used in systems with smaller pipe sizes and are commonly found in industries like oil, gas, and chemical processing.

SORF

Slip-On Raised Face, A type of flange that slips over the pipe and is welded in place, making it easier to install than other flanges. It features a raised face that helps ensure a tight seal and prevent leaks. SORF flanges are commonly used in low- to medium-pressure applications, as they are cost-effective and provide adequate strength for many industrial uses. However, they are generally not as robust as Weld Neck Flanges in high-pressure environments.

WNRF

Weld Neck Raised Face, A flange with a long, tapered neck that provides a smooth transition between the pipe and the flange, ensuring strong, stress-resistant joints. The raised face helps create a tight seal with a gasket, making it suitable for high-pressure and high-temperature applications. WNRF flanges are commonly used in critical applications where leak-proof, durable connections are required, such as in refineries, power plants, and chemical industries. The flange is welded to the pipe for added strength and support.