The Variety of ANSI Flange Categories and Materials in Manufacturing

A flange is a projecting lip, ring, or collar on the end of a pipe or other machine housing. The purpose of it is to give additional support or strength or to connect another object. There are a variety of types, which are interchangeable. The design is such that the ANSI flanges can meet increasing safety and manufacturing requirements. As well as connecting, ANSI flanges can also be used to close off the pipe.

Most Common Categories of ANSI Flanges

The most common categories used are called pipe flanges. ASME Standards and Certifications is a government organization of engineers who create rules for flanges. ASME B16.5 or ASME B16.47 are the standards used for pipe flanges for a variety of manufacturing standards. These engineering standards cover a wide range of forging materials, in different size and pressure classes. Another flange used in various industries is the vacuum flange. Its purpose is for the connection of vacuum chambers, tubing, and vacuum pumps to each other.

Materials Used in Flange Manufacturing

There is a wide range of materials used in the manufacturing of flanges. Carbon steel is the combination most used. It is the alloy of carbon and steel together. The carbon steel flange takes on the advantages of both carbon and steel. Steel will withstand high working temperatures, and it will become harder and stronger through heat treatment. There are four different types of carbon steel. Low carbon steel is cheaper and it is easy to shape. Higher amounts of steel add strength to the flange, but too much carbon will make the carbon steel brittle.