A flange serves as a crucial component in piping systems, facilitating the connection of pipes, valves, pumps, and other equipment. Its design allows for easy access, enabling cleaning, inspection, or modifications as needed. Flanges are typically welded or screwed into place, forming joints by bolting two flanges together with a gasket between them to ensure a sealed connection. Flanges can also be plates or rings attached to pipe ends, creating a rim. A blind flange, for instance, covers or closes off the end of a pipe. Flange joints utilize bolts to secure connecting pieces with flanges, ensuring a robust connection.

Various types of flanges are commonly used, each suited to specific applications:

• Weld Neck Flange: Designed for high-pressure applications, it requires specification of pipe schedule to match bore sizes.
• Slip-On Flange: Easy to align and used in low-pressure systems.
• Blind Flange: Used to close off pipes, valves, or equipment openings.
• Socket Weld Flange: Used for smaller-size, high-pressure piping.
• Threaded Flange: Connects pipes with threaded ends, suitable for low-pressure systems.
• Lap Joint Flange (RTJ Flange): Ideal for systems requiring frequent dismantling.