1. Design and Structure
2. Functionality and Purpose
Serves as a terminal connection for a pipe or equipment, enabling it to attach to another flanged component. For example, a single flange welded to the end of a pipe allows it to connect to a valve with a flange on one end.
Used to seal or terminate a system when paired with a blind flange (a solid disc) to close off a pipe end.
Often used in simple, linear connections where only one joining point is needed.
Acts as a bridge or adapter between two separate piping sections or components. For instance, a double-flanged valve has flanges on both inlet and outlet, allowing it to fit directly into a continuous pipeline.
Facilitates alignment and flexibility in systems. For example, double-flanged expansion joints use two flanges to connect to pipes while absorbing thermal expansion or vibration, preventing stress on the system.
Enables modular assembly, as the two flanges simplify integrating intermediate components (e.g., pumps, filters) into a pipeline without requiring additional welding or threading.
3. Applications
End caps for tanks or vessels (where only one connection point is needed).
Piping ends that require occasional disassembly (e.g., for cleaning or inspection).
Attachments for instruments (e.g., pressure gauges) or small branch lines off a main pipeline.
Valves (gate valves, ball valves) that need to fit into a continuous pipeline.
Expansion joints, where two flanges connect to pipe ends to absorb movement.
Pumps, compressors, or meters with flanged inlets and outlets, allowing easy integration into a system.
Spacers or reducers (to connect pipes of different diameters) with flanges on both ends for secure, leak-proof transitions.
4. Installation and Sealing
Requires alignment with a single mating flange (or a blind flange) and is secured with bolts and a gasket between the two surfaces.
Sealing depends on proper torque of bolts to compress the gasket evenly against the single flange face.
Requires alignment with two separate mating flanges (one on each end of the component). Each joint is sealed with its own gasket and bolt set.
Installation may demand more precise alignment, as both flanges must align with their respective counterparts to avoid stress or leakage.
