Steel Flange
We know the industrial piping world can be complex. This site was created to be a simple, surface-level guide for anyone looking to understand the basics. Here, you'll find straightforward articles and guides on the common types, materials, and functions of steel flanges.
This is an informational resource only. When you're ready to source high-quality flanges from an industry leader, we proudly direct you to our partners at Texas Flange.
What is a Steel Flange?
A steel flange is a fundamental component used to connect pipes, valves, pumps, and other equipment to form a complete industrial piping system. Typically forged or cast, these flanges are designed to be bolted together with a gasket in between to create a secure, leak-proof seal. They are available in various types, like weld neck, slip-on, and blind flanges, and different materials, such as carbon steel (A105) or stainless steel (304/316). Selecting the correct flange requires matching its dimensions, pressure rating (e.g., 150#, 300#), and technical specifications to your project's requirements.
An expert team is available at Texas Flange to help you with any questions you may have and all your sourcing needs.
Why Choose a Stainless Steel Flange?
Steel flanges are the industry's most trusted and widely specified material due to their exceptional strength, reliability, and cost-effectiveness. Ideal for most standard industrial applications, carbon steel provides robust performance in high-pressure and high-temperature environments. You can source all types, from weld neck and slip-on flanges to blind flanges, in common specifications like A105. This material is the workhorse for industries like oil and gas, power generation, and manufacturing, and it is available in all standard dimensions and pressure ratings (like 150# or 300#) to meet your project's requirements.
FAQs
What is a steel flange?
A flange is a forged or cast steel ring designed to connect sections of pipe, or to join a pipe to a valve, pump, or other piece of equipment. Flanges are bolted together with a gasket in between to create a secure, leak-proof seal that allows for easier system maintenance.
Why choose a steel flange?
Steel flanges are the industry standard because they offer the best combination of strength, durability, and cost-effectiveness. They are strong enough to handle high-pressure and high-temperature requirements, making them the go-to material for critical applications in oil and gas, manufacturing, and power generation. As the most common specification (like A105 for carbon steel), they are easy to source in all types (like weld neck or slip-on) and dimensions.
How do flanges connect pipes?
Flanges create a strong, bolted joint. A flange is typically welded or screwed onto the end of each pipe. To make the connection, a gasket (a ring of softer, compressible material) is placed between the two flat flange faces. Bolts are then inserted through the matching bolt holes and tightened with nuts. This action compresses the gasket, creating a tight, leak-proof seal that securely fastens the two pipe sections together.
What types of steel flange are there?
The most common types include Weld Neck flanges, which are ideal for high-pressure and high-temperature applications; Slip-On flanges, which are easier to align and install; and Blind flanges, which are used to seal the end of a piping system.
Where are steel flanges used?
Steel flanges are essential components in virtually all industrial and mechanical piping systems. You'll find them in any industry that transports liquids or gases, especially under high pressure or at high temperatures. Key industries include oil and gas (for pipelines and refineries), petrochemical and chemical processing plants, and power generation facilities. They are also critical for connecting pumps, valves, and equipment in municipal water treatment systems.
How do I choose the right flange?
Consider pipe size, pressure, material compatibility, and application environment for best fit, and call Texas Flange today!
