Why Do Hydraulic Lines Use Square Flanges?

Square flanges are typically made of steel or stainless steel, and used in a wide range of systems with standard pipes in water systems, offshore environments, pipe projects, oil fields and more. They’re frequently used in hydraulic systems to connect pipes to components, or to make strong pipe-to-pipe connections. As you might expect based on the name of the part, these flanges feature a square shape.

But why square flanges versus other types of flanges? Here’s an overview of what you should know as you prepare for a project in San Jose, CA.

Square flanges in piping and various systems

Square flanges are frequently used in a wide range of high-pressure industries to make connections between pipes and any other components needed to create a full, effective system.

In a square flange end connection, there is a weld to create a stronger connection, and the pipe inserts into the recessed part of the flange, or is otherwise socketed to have a plain end. But there are numerous options for other customized fittings.

Square flanges are most beneficial when working with smaller diameter pipes. With larger diameter pipes there is more likely to be a large weight load working inside, and square flanges aren’t necessarily going to be designed to operate under a high-torque environment. You’re most likely to come across square flanges in heat exchangers, plumbing and water systems, petrochemical industrial plants and in oil and gas pipes and pipelines.

There are several types of flanges as well, each of which will be used for different types of applications:

• SHAB: The most common flange type in the industry, it will be used in conjunction with hexagon bolts and will be capable of having maximum pressures of 201 kg per square centimeter.
• SSAB: This type of flange works under the same maximum pressure as SHAB, but features a smaller body. It’s used with Allen cap screws.
• KAB: This type of flange features a similar design and configuration to SHAB flanges, and will have higher pressure ratings of either 280 kg per square centimeter or 350 kg per square centimeter.
• Square blind flanges: These flanges are used specifically for closing off the end flow of the connection in the system.

Square flanges are also beneficial in that they are easily assembled. First, check the surface to make sure it’s clear of any debris or scratch marks before applying a lubricant on all the O-rings. Place your fingers in the right position to fix the bolts in the bolt holes, then hand tighten the flanges with bolts and nuts before achieving optimal tightness with a wrench.

Interested in learning more about square flanges, their benefits and their applications? We encourage you to contact Royal Brass Incorporated or visit our hose company in San Jose, CA with any questions you have about the wide range of parts and products we supply to manufacturers and industrial companies. We have a wide range of hoses, belts and flanges for your machinery needs and would be pleased to provide you with further information as needed.

Categorised in: Flanges