Steel flanges: purpose, types and application features
The reliability of pipeline systems largely depends on the quality of the connecting elements. One of the most common parts for pipeline installation are steel flanges, which provide a strong and hermetic connection of pipes, shut-off valves, pumping equipment, tanks and other engineering systems. Due to the collapsible design, the flange connections greatly simplify the maintenance, repair and modernization of pipelines. The market offers flat, collar and pressure flanges of various diameters, nominal pressures and grades of steel that meet the requirements of GOST 33259-2015.
Steel flanges are widely used in the oil and gas industry, energy, housing and communal services, chemical industry, water supply and manufacturing enterprises. They allow you to create reliable detachable connections, which, if necessary, can be quickly dismantled without damaging the pipeline.
Main types of steel flanges
Depending on the operating conditions, different types of flange connections are used.
- flat welded;
- collar (butt-welded);
- pressure plates for a polyethylene sleeve;
- blind flanges;
- free flanges on the welding ring.
Each type has its own design features and is used depending on the pressure of the working medium, temperature and characteristics of the pipeline system.
Where flanged connections are used
Flanges are used in almost all engineering communications where a reliable detachable connection of equipment or pipes is required.
- main pipelines;
- heating and water supply systems;
- oil and gas industry;
- chemical production;
- boiler rooms;
- pumping stations;
- food companies;
- energy facilities.
How to choose a steel flange
When selecting a product, several technical parameters must be taken into account. First of all, the nominal passage (DN), nominal pressure (PN), type of connection surface and steel grade are determined. For standard conditions, steel 20 is often used, when operating at low temperatures, steel 09G2C is used, and for aggressive environments, stainless grades such as 12X18H10T are used.
It is also important to take into account the operating temperature of the medium, the characteristics of the transported product and the requirements of the design documentation.
Advantages of steel flanges
- high mechanical strength;
- tightness of the connection;
- possibility of multiple disassembly;
- wide range of standard sizes;
- Compatible with various types of pipe fittings;
- long service life.
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