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Steel Flange

A steel flange is more than just a structural component; it is a key element in building effective and efficient piping systems. The flange serves as the main connector for joining pipes, valves, pumps, gates, sections of industrial installations, and other equipment.

What are the types of steel flanges?

Neck Flange – Manufactured according to the EN 1092-1:2013 standard, type 11, characterized by a conical hub that allows for smooth transitions from the flange thickness to the pipe wall thickness. Neck flanges are used for welding. When selecting a flange, it is important to consider the neck thickness, flange pressure rating, and the type of material needed. You can purchase them here>>
Flanges according to the American standard "Weld Neck" – These are neck flanges manufactured according to the ANSI B16.5 standard. They come in inch sizes, e.g., 1/2'', 1'', 4'', 10'', etc., and their pressure is rated in lbs. The most common are 150lb, 300lb, and 600lb. These flanges are designed for welding.

Steel Flange for Welding according to EN Steel Flange according to ANSI ASME

A flange manufactured according to EN typically has a shorter and narrower neck compared to a flange manufactured according to ANSI. This difference is visible in the photos above.

Flat Flange - Type 01, used to create a durable and leak-proof connection between pipes. Flat flanges are manufactured according to the EN 1092-1:2013 standard. They are commonly used in industrial installations, such as in pipelines carrying water or steam. They are also frequently used by plumbers and installers. A key consideration when using flat flanges is ensuring proper sealing, which should be chosen according to the medium flowing in the installation and the pressure. Gaskets for steel flanges can be purchased here>>

SLIP-ON – Manufactured according to the ANSI B16.5 standard, this welding flange is installed by slipping it over the pipe. It is slightly wider to allow the pipe to slide inside. The flange is welded at the top and bottom. You can buy them here>>

When welding, ensure there is space between the end of the pipe and the flange to avoid damage to the flange face, as shown in the diagram.

Loose Flange - Type 02, used in conjunction with flat rings, type 32, for welding according to EN 1092-1:2013, or Loose Flange Type 04 with a neck ring for welding, type 34, according to EN 1092-1:2013. These are used in installations that require frequent cleaning and/or inspection. The freedom to rotate around the pipe facilitates the alignment of opposite holes for the flange bolts. The lack of contact with the fluid in the pipe often allows the use of inexpensive carbon steel flanges with corrosion-resistant pipes. You can buy them here>>

Lap Joint Flange – These are loose flanges manufactured according to the ANSI B16.5 standard and are used in conjunction with stub ends. They are applied in installations that require frequent cleaning and/or inspection. The ability to rotate around the pipe makes it easier to align opposite holes for flange bolts. The lack of contact with the fluid in the pipe often allows the use of inexpensive carbon steel flanges with corrosion-resistant pipes. You can buy them here>>

Threaded Flanges – These flanges are threaded in the hole to fit the external thread of the pipe. They are ideal for applications where welding is not recommended. Threaded flanges according to the EN standard have a BSP thread, while according to the ANSI standard, they have an NPT thread. You can buy them here>>

Socket Weld Flange – These flanges are manufactured according to the ANSI B16.5 standard and feature a socket for welding. The pipe is inserted into the recess and welded around the flange. It is important to consider the pipe wall thickness to ensure proper fitment. The socket weld flange is commonly used in gas and steam installations and petrochemical industries. You can buy them here>>

Blind Flange – Type 05, manufactured according to the EN 1092-1:2013 standard. These are primarily used for closing the ends of pipelines, openings in pressure vessels, and other piping systems where the end needs to be sealed. The American standard equivalent of a blind flange is simply called BLIND. You can buy them here>>

It is important to note that flanges can have different types of face finishes, called "facings." Examples include:

Type A – Flat face
Type B1 – Standard raised face
Type C – With a tongue
Type D – With a groove
Type E – Flange with a projection
Type F – Flange with a recess
Type G – Flange prepared for an O-ring seal
Type H – Flange with a groove for an O-ring

Other names: flange, disk, collar, blind, flange, steel ring.

For flange manufacturing, high-quality stainless steel and carbon steel are commonly used, such as 304, 304L, 316, 316L, 316Ti, P235GH, P245GH, P265GH, P280GH, P355NH, P355NL1, A234WPB, 16Mo3, 13CrMo4-5.

How to Choose the Right Steel Flange?

When selecting a flange, remember these four points:

What type of steel do you need? Stainless or carbon steel? If you are unsure, provide us with the medium, and we can help you choose the right material.
What is the pressure in the installation? Examples include PN10, PN16, PN40, PN100, 150lb, 300lb, 600lb.
What size do you need?
What pipe wall thickness will the flange be used with? Provide the pipe wall thickness you intend to use.

Applications of Steel Flanges

Flanges are used in countless industries, including oil and gas transport, power plants, pumping stations, and energy production.

Flanges are often found in installations at sewage treatment plants, water transport systems, dams, etc.

We offer a wide range of flanges. You can find them in our store here>> Fast shipping within 24 hours.

If you are unsure which flange to choose, send us an inquiry to the email: biuro@polberis.pl. We will gladly prepare a price proposal for you.

If you have any questions, feel free to contact us.