To the uninitiated a flange is a flange. However to the pipeline designer the use of a particular type of flange for a specific situation is critical. The use of the incorrect type of flange can lead to restrictions is flow rates, turbulence in the flow leading to cavitation and even premature failure. This can be catastrophic if it occurs in the wrong place at the wrong time. Also different types of flanges, although similar in appearance may be used for totally different applications.

A weld neck flange is probably the most common type of flange fitting for connecting two sections of pipe and is particularly used for high pressure installations; it consists of a round plate with the central bore the size of the pipe. They also have a collar which increases in thickness at the base of the plate. They are connected to the pipe by welding the collar end on to the pipe. They are recommended for installations which require a robust pipe joint especially if it is subject to temperature variations.

However there is also a long weld neck flange. Although this is similar in concept is has a considerably longer collar and is used for a completely different application. This type of flange is used where a nozzle is required for a pipe.

We at Chemipetro produce a wide variety of pipe fittings and flanges to ensure that you always have the correct specification of fitting for any specific application.