A Guide to Flanges: What You Need to Know

A flange is a fitting that goes around a round object, such as a pipe, in order to strengthen it and add the opportunity to attach additional components to the pipe. They can also join pipes, valves, gauges and other components. Flanges come in a variety of materials, including stainless and other types of steel, carbon and aluminum. The type of flange you need depends on the type of fluid your piping system is transporting and how you will join them (either screwing or welding together). There are no building standards that demand the use of flanges, but they can be a simple and cost-effective method of joining pipes.

You may have seen flanges referred to as blind, threaded, lap-joint, socket-welded, slip-on or welded neck flanges. Ask the experts at Royal Brass Incorporated about which flange fitting in San Jose, CA is right for you.

Flanges can be categorized based on the type of connection, the flange facing type, pressure temperature ratings, material type, pipe size or diameter or the surface finish. When looking at their numbers, ranging from 5B to 12B, bear in mind that these numbers refer to the inner wall diameter of the pipes, even if the outer diameter is the same.

Benefits of flanges

• Great for tight spaces: If you can’t use regular wrenches in your installation space, flanges can help. They require moderate torque and are easier to install in tight spaces, depending on how much clearance you have.
• Flexible: If you need flexibility or are installing pipes in a hard-to-reach area, flanges allow you to join your lines without needing adapters in the line, whether it’s a tube, hose or pipe.
• Good for high pressure situations: Flanges are great for hydraulic applications, like large hoses, high pressure or high vibrations, which can hasten damage. They also reduce the risk of your components coming loose during usage.
• Easy maintenance: Because the pipes aren’t welded together, flanges allow for easy maintenance of rigid lines or tubes.

Drawbacks of flanges

• Insulation: It is more expensive to insulate flanged pipes as opposed to other methods of joining them. However, since they’re a more cost-effective option on the whole, you might find that this balances out.
• Space concerns: While flanged pipes are more flexible and can be installed in tight spaces, you’ll still need more space on the whole for your system.
• Leaks are possible: With professional-grade installation, your flanges shouldn’t be a problem, but you should be aware that there is the possibility they’ll leak. If you’re transporting a hazardous substance, you might want to consider another option.

Get quality pipe flanges and fittings in San Jose, CA

When you need pipe flanges in San Jose, CA, call or stop by Royal Brass Incorporated. We have been family-owned and operated since 1952, serving customers throughout California with an unmatched selection of hoses, fittings, flanges, regulators, valves, adapters and gauges. We’re knowledgeable about everything we sell, ensuring you get exactly the components you need from reputable brands like Parker Hannifin, Dixon and more. Reach out to us today to speak with an expert.

Categorised in: Hose Parts, Hydraulic Hose