It is well-known that pipes are usually connected by a type of fitting called a “flange.” However, in real life, many of us know little about flanges and blind flanges, and they are often confused. Here, we have specially distinguished the difference between flange and blind flange, explained as follows:
Features Of The Difference Between Flange And Blind Flange
A blind flange is a particular type of flange that features no central hole, distinguishing it from other flanges. It is mainly employed to seal the end of a pipeline, effectively blocking the port. This function is akin to that of a valve head or pipe cap; however, the difference between a flange and a blind flange is that the latter is a removable sealing device that does not allow reopening of the sealed port.
Blind flanges are made from materials such as carbon steel, alloy, stainless steel, and plastic, among others. Due to its superior sealing capabilities, the blind flange serves various functions, including isolation, cutting, sealing heads, and acting as a pipe cap. It is commonly used as a permanent isolation method when complete separation is needed. The blind flange is essentially a solid plate with a handle, making it more convenient to use in isolation systems compared to other types of flanges under standard conditions.
For typical operations, a yellow throttling ring can also be used to fill the installation gap of the blind flange on the pipe, highlighting another difference between flange and blind flange in practical applications.
A flange, also referred to as a flange or raised edge, is a component designed to connect pipes, typically featuring a hole at the end of the pipe. To make the connection, the flange must be secured with bolts.
Unlike a blind flange, which has no hole and is used to seal off a pipeline, a standard flange is often sealed with gaskets or used temporarily for testing purposes. Flanges are common in pipeline engineering and are generally classified by their connection method into threaded flanges, welded flanges, and clamped flanges.
While threaded and welded flanges are used for low-pressure pipelines, those exceeding 4 kg typically require more robust connection methods, highlighting the difference between flange and blind flange in terms of their application and functionality.
Applications
Flanges are widely used in fundamental engineering fields such as chemical, construction, oil, sanitation, piping, and firefighting due to their excellent performance characteristics.
In pipeline strength or sealing tests, the blind flange used in the initial preparation phase cannot be used simultaneously with connected equipment. The blind flange should be installed at the connection point between the equipment and the pipeline. Various process material pipes are connected outside the boundary area. When the equipment is shut down, the blind flange should be installed at the shut-off valve.
Advantages
Advantages Of Flanges
Flanges allow for the connection of various piping sections, valves, and equipment. They are available in multiple types such as weld neck, slip-on, and threaded, each suited for different applications.
Many types of flanges, especially slip-on and threaded flanges, are relatively easy to install. This can reduce labor costs and time compared to other joining methods.
Flanges enable easy disconnection and reassembly of piping systems. This feature is particularly advantageous during maintenance, inspections, or modifications, as components can be readily accessed and replaced.
Advantages Of Blind Flanges
Blind flanges provide a reliable and effective seal for the end of a pipe or an opening in a system. This is essential for maintaining system pressure and preventing leaks.
Blind flanges are useful for temporarily or permanently closing off sections of a pipeline during maintenance or modifications. They facilitate system repairs and adjustments without the need to remove entire sections of piping.
Blind flanges are often less expensive than flanges with central openings because they require simpler manufacturing processes. This can make them a cost-effective solution for sealing purposes.
Alright, the above content covers the difference between flange and blind flange. I hope you have gained some understanding. After all, only through understanding can we choose the right connecting fittings to make pipe connections more secure. If you want to learn more knowledge on flanges, elbows, please contact us!
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