Industrial flanges: types, uses and coding
Industrial flanges: types, uses and coding
Flanges are fundamental elements in industrial piping systems. They allow connecting sections of pipe, valves, pumps or other components, guaranteeing a robust and watertight union, but at the same time easily removable. This feature facilitates maintenance, inspection or modification tasks, since it is not necessary to make cuts or welds to intervene in the line.
However, to guarantee good operation and compatibility between components, it is essential to know how flanges are identified and classified. Next, we explain how to interpret their coding and what types exist according to their design and application.
How to interpret the coding of flanges?
Industrial flanges have a standard marking according to their design code, which can be ASME/ANSI or EN 1092 mostly, which establishes the minimum requirements for marking. This coding allows you to easily identify the most relevant parameters for their use:
- Design standard: Usually B16.5 or B16.47 according to ANSI/ASME or EN 1092-1 according to EN 13445.
- Nominal diameter: Indicates the diameter of the pipe to which it is connected. (NPS measured in inches / DN)
- Pressure class: Rating between pressure and temperature. (150Lb,…, 2500Lb / PN6,…, PN400)
- Material: For example SA A182 F304/304L, indicating the type of stainless steel. If there are two references, it means that it meets both.
- Type: Flange shape, WN (Weld Neck), SW (Socket Weld), type 05-B, type 11-B
- Identification or casting number: For product traceability.
- Manufacturer or trademark: Supplier name.
Most common flange types
Depending on the use, pressure or type of connection, we can find several types of flanges:
- Weld Neck Flange (Weld Neck – WN or Type 11)
With a conical neck that is welded to the pipe, it provides great resistance and stability. Recommended for high pressures and temperatures. - Socket Weld Flange (SW)
The pipe is inserted into the flange and welded. Ideal for small and medium diameters with moderate working conditions. - Slip On Flange (Slip On or Type 12)
Easy to install and economical. It slides over the pipe and is welded on both sides. Good option for general systems. - Threaded Flange (Type 13)
Connected to the pipe by thread. Does not require welding and is used in temporary installations or with heating restrictions. - Blind Flange (Type 05)
Closes one end of the pipe. Withstands high pressures and allows for isolation of lines that could be expanded in the future. - Lap Joint
Ideal for frequent assemblies. It is used with a collar welded to the pipe, and the flange is left free for easier maneuverability.
At IES we have had the opportunity to work with pieces of considerable size, one of ANSI ASME B16.47 of 30” 600Lb RF incorporated in some heating equipment destined for Finland. But we have also managed high pressures with smaller diameters, as is the case of one of ANSI B16.5 16” 1500Lb. We can also work with clamp or tri-clamp flanges according to BS4825 regulations.
At IES SOLER we are specialists in industrial solutions for electric heat and we have a team of industrial engineers who provide active advice in the design, implementation and commissioning.
- We design efficient and safe systems.
- They select the appropriate flange for your project.
- And we complete with the implementation and commissioning.
At IES Soler we work to offer you reliable and industrial quality thermal solutions, always promoting local and local suppliers, taking care of our network. We are primarily present in the Energy, Transport and Industry sectors.
