What Are Stainless Steel Flanges? Different Grades And Sizes Of Stainless steel Flanges
Introduction:
Flanges made of stainless steel are mechanical parts that join pipes, valves, pumps, and other pieces of machinery in pipeline systems. A flange is essentially a flat or raised ring with bolt holes around its perimeter. It acts as a connecting point between two sections of pipe or equipment, allowing for easy assembly, disassembly, and maintenance of the system.
Stainless steel is a popular material choice for flanges due to its excellent corrosion resistance, durability, and strength. It is commonly used in applications where the system may be exposed to harsh environments or corrosive substances, such as in chemical processing plants, oil and gas pipelines, food processing industries, and marine applications.
Stainless steel flanges come in various shapes, sizes, and types to suit different requirements. The most common types include:
Weld Neck Flanges:
These flanges are butt-welded to the piping and have a long, tapered neck that transfers stress efficiently. They are excellent for uses necessitating high pressures and temperatures.
Slip-On Flanges:
These flanges are then welded into position after sliding over the pipe. They are excellent for low-pressure applications and simple to align.
Socket Weld Flanges:
These flanges have a socket inside the bore that allows for pipe insertion. They are primarily used for small-diameter, high-pressure piping systems.
Threaded Flanges:
These flanges have internal threads that match the external threads on the pipe. They are suitable for low-pressure applications and are commonly used in plumbing systems.
Blind Flanges:
These flanges are solid disks used to seal the end of a pipe, valve, or vessel. They are often used in systems that require periodic inspection or maintenance.
Stainless steel flanges are typically manufactured to standards such as ASME (American Society of Mechanical Engineers) or ANSI (American National Standards Institute), which specify dimensions, materials, and pressure ratings. It is essential to select the appropriate flange type, size, and rating to ensure a proper and leak-free connection in a piping system.
Stainless steel flanges are available in different grades and sizes to suit various applications and requirements. The choice of grade and size depends on factors such as the intended use, temperature, pressure, and corrosive environment.
Here are some commonly used grades and sizes of stainless steel flanges:
Grades of Stainless Steel Flanges:
Stainless Steel 304 (A2):
This grade contains 18% chromium and 8% nickel, offering good corrosion resistance and strength. It is frequently employed in all-purpose applications.
Stainless Steel 316 (A4): This grade contains 16-18% chromium, 10-14% nickel, and 2-3% molybdenum, providing excellent corrosion resistance, especially in chloride environments. It is suitable for more corrosive applications, such as marine and chemical industries.
Stainless Steel 321: This grade contains titanium, which stabilises the stainless steel against sensitization during welding. It offers high-temperature strength and resistance to intergranular corrosion.
Other grades: There are various other grades available, such as 310, 347, 904L, and duplex stainless steels like 2205 and 2507, each with specific properties for different applications.
Sizes of Stainless Steel Flanges:
Flange Diameter:
Stainless steel flanges are available in a range of diameters, from small sizes (e.g., 1/2 inch or 15 mm) to large sizes (e.g., 60 inches or 1500 mm) or even larger for special applications.
Flange Pressure Class: Flanges are manufactured to different pressure classes or ratings, such as 150, 300, 600, 900, 1500, and 2500. The pressure class indicates the flange’s ability to withstand pressure at a given temperature.
- Stainless Steel Flange Manufacturer in Coimbatore
Flange Facing:
Flanges also have different facing types, such as raised face (RF), flat face (FF), and ring type joint (RTJ), which affect the sealing surface and compatibility with gaskets.
It’s important to consult the specifications and standards relevant to your specific application to determine the appropriate grade and size of stainless steel flanges. Additionally, consulting with industry professionals or suppliers can provide guidance and ensure the correct selection for your project.
Sanjay Metal India is one of the leading Stainless Steel Flanges Manufacturers in India. ANSI B16.5 Stainless Steel Flanges are designed and developed in accordance with international and national quality standards. One of our popular products in the Metal Market is Stainless Steel Flange.
