Definition and Details of Pipe

Definition of Pipe
Pipe is a hollow tube with round cross section for the conveyance of products. The products
include fluids, gas, pellets, powders and more. The word pipe is used as distinguished from
tube to apply to tubular products of dimensions commonly used for pipeline and piping
systems. On this website, pipes conforming to the dimensional requirements of: ASME
B36.10 Welded and Seamless Wrought Steel Pipe and ASME B36.19 Stainless Steel Pipe
will be discussed.

Pipe or Tube?
In the world of piping, the terms pipe and tube will be used. Pipe is customarily identified by
"Nominal Pipe Size" (NPS), with wall thickness defined by "Schedule number" (SCH). Tube is
customarily specified by its outside diameter (O.D.) and wall thickness (WT), expressed either
in Birmingham wire gage (BWG) or in thousandths of an inch.
Pipe: NPS 1/2-SCH 40 is even to outside diameter 21,3 mm with a wall thickness of 2,77 mm.
Tube: 1/2" x 1,5 is even to outside diameter 12,7 mm with a wall thickness of 1,5 mm.
The principal uses for tube are in Heat Exchangers, instrument lines and small
interconnections on equipment such as compressors, boilers etc..
Materials for Pipe
Engineering companies have materials engineers to determine materials to be used in piping
systems. Most pipe is of carbon steel (depending on service) is manufactured to different
ASTM standards.
Carbon-steel pipe is strong, ductile, weldable, machinable, reasonably, durable and is nearly
always cheaper than pipe made from other materials. If carbon-steel pipe can meet the
requirements of pressure, temperature, corrosion resistance and hygiene, it is the natural
choice.
Iron pipe is made from cast-iron and ductile-iron. The principal uses are for water, gas and
sewage lines.
Plastic pipe may be used to convey actively corrosive fluids, and is especially useful for
handling corrosive or hazardous gases and dilute mineral acids.
Other Metals and Alloys pipe made from copper, lead, nickel, brass, aluminium and various
stainless steels can be readily obtained. These materials are relatively expensive and are
selected usually either because of their particular corrosion resistance to the process chemical,
their good Heat Transfer, or for their tensile strength at high temperatures. Copper and copper
alloys are traditional for instrument lines, food processing and Heat Transfer equipment.
Stainless steels are increasingly being used for these.
Lined Pipe
Some materials described above, have been combined to form lined pipe systems.
For example, a carbon steel pipe can be internally lined with material able to withstand
chemical attack permits its use to carry corrosive fluids. Linings (Teflon®, for example) can be
applied after fabricating the piping, so it is possible to fabricate whole pipe spools before
lining.
Other internal layers can be: glass, various plastics, concrete etc., also coatings, like Epoxy,
Bituminous Asphalt, Zink etc. can help to protect the inner pipe.
Many things are important in determining the right material. The most important of these are
pressure, temperature, product type, dimensions, costs etc..

Fittings
Definition and details of Butt
Weld Fittings
Buttweld Fittings general
A pipe fitting is defined as a part used in a piping system, for changing direction, branching or
for change of pipe diameter, and which is mechanically joined to the system. There are many
different types of fittings and they are the same in all sizes and schedules as the pipe.
Fittings are divided into three groups:
 Buttweld (BW) fittings whose dimensions, dimensional tolerances et cetera are defined
in the ASME B16.9 standards. Light-weight corrosion resistant fittings are made to MSS
SP43.
 Socket Weld (SW) fittings Class 3000, 6000, 9000 are defined in the ASME B16.11
standards.
 Threaded (THD) fittings Class 2000, 3000, 6000 are defined in the ASME B16.11
standards.
Applications of Buttweld Fittings
A piping system using buttweld fittings has many inherent advantages over other forms.
 Welding a fitting to the pipe means it is permanently leakproof
 The continuous metal structure formed between pipe and fitting adds strength to the
system
 Smooth inner surface and gradual directional changes reduce pressure losses and
turbulence
and minimize the action of corrosion and erosion
 A welded system utilizes a minimum of space

Bevelled Ends
The ends of all buttweld fittings are bevelled, exceeding wall thickness 4 mm for austenitic
stainless steel, or 5 mm for ferritic stainless steel. The shape of the bevel depending upon the
actual wall thickness. This bevelled ends are needed to be able to make a "Butt weld".

ASME B16.25 covers the preparation of buttwelding ends of piping components to be joined
into a piping system by welding. It includes requirements for welding bevels, for external and
internal shaping of heavy-wall components, and for preparation of internal ends (including
dimensions and dimensional tolerances). These weld edge preparation requirements are also
incorporated into the ASME standards (e.g., B16.9, B16.5, B16.34).
Material and Performance

The most common materials used in fittings produced is carbon steel, stainless steel, cast
iron, aluminium, copper, glass, rubber, the various types of plastics, etc..
In addition, fittings, like pipes, for specific purposes sometimes internally equipped with layers
of materials of a completely different quality as the fitting themselves, which are
"lined fittings".
The material of a fitting is basically set during the choice of the pipe, in most cases, a fitting is
of the same material as the pipe.

Buttweld Fittings: Elbows 45° - 90° - 180° LR/SR

The function of a elbow is to change direction or flow in a piping system. By default, there are
5 opportunities, the 45°, 90° and 180° elbows, all three in the "long radius" version, and in
addition the 90° and 180° elbows both in the "short radius" version.

1. 90°- 2"- LR : = 38.1 x (25,4 x 2) A = 76,2 mm

2. 180°- 2"- LR : = 38.1 x (25,4 x 2) x 2 A = 152,4 mm
3. 90°- 2"- SR : = 25,4 x 2 A = 50,8 mm
4. 180°- 2"- SR : = (25,4 x 2) x 2 A = 101,6 mm
5. 45°-2”-LR : = (15.875 x 2) A =31.37 mm

45° Elbow
The function of a 45° elbow is the same as a 90° elbow, but the measurement of dimensions
is different to that of the 90° elbow.

The radius of a 45° elbow is the same as the radius of the 90° LR (1½D). However, the center
to face dimension is not equivalent to the radius as in 90° LR elbows. This is measured from
each face to the point of intersection of the center lines perpendicular to each other, distances
B on the image. This is due to the smaller degree of bend. Short radius 45° elbows are not
available.

90° Elbow

Standards
The most applied version is the 90° long radius and the 45° elbow, while the 90° short radius
elbow is applied if there is too little space. The function of a 180° elbow is to change direction
of flow through 180°. Both, the LR and the SR types have a center to center dimension double
the matching 90° elbows. These fittings will generally be used in furnesses or other heating or
cooling units.
Dimensions, dimensional tolerances and more images, can be found in the main Menu
"Fittings".
In addition to the defined elbows, there is the Reducing Elbow, which is a elbow with various
diameters on the ends. Because this elbow, for many suppliers it is not a standard item, and
thus probably a high price with a long delivery time, the use of a "normal" elbow with a
separate reducer is an option if the situation allows.

Image of a buttweld reducing elbow.

Other degrees elbows can be machined from a standard elbow. Longer radius type, the center
to face dimension e.g. is three times the nominal size (3D), even is available.
Dimensions, dimensional tolerances etc. for long and short radius elbows are defined in ASME
B16.9.

Wall Thickness of Elbows

The weakest point on an elbow is the inside radius. ASME B16.9 only standardizes the center
to face dimensions and some "squareness" dimensional tolerances. The wall thickness at the
weld line location even is standardized, but not through the rest of an elbow. The standard
states that the minimum tolerance will be within 12.5% of the minimum ordered wall
thickness of the pipe. A maximum tolerance is specified only at the ends of the fitting.
Many providers of buttweld elbows (and tees) provide one schedule greater thickness so that
sufficient wall thickness, after forming, remains.
Buttweld Fittings: Tee straight and reducing
The primary purpose of a Tee is to make a 90° branch from the main run of pipe. Standard
there are 2 possibilities, on behalf of the equal tee and reducing tee. The equal tee (or straight
tee) is used as the branch has the same diameter as the run-pipe. The reducing tee is used as
the branch has a smaller diameter as the run-pipe.

Dimensions and Standards

When we talk about a tee NPS 3, a equal or straight tee is intended. With a tee NPS 3 x 2 a
reducing tee is intended. Although, officially a reducing tee will be indicated by 3 diameters,
namely 3 x 3 x 2 (A x B x C). The A & B measure stands for the Nominal Pipe Size of Run-
Pipe, C measure stands for Nominal Pipe Size of Outlet.
This designation actually is superfluous, but comes from the time that tees were available in 3
different ends of diameters, such as
4 x 3 x 2 (A x B x C). In this implementation of course it is necessary, to specify 3 different
sizes.
That kind of tees is probably no longer available. Applying a equal tee with a concentric or
eccentric reducer is now the usual practice.
A straight or equal buttwelding Tee is available for all common diameters.
A Reducing Tee not, because many diameters are not produced, or can not be produced.
As an example: a reducing tee NPS 6 x 4 is a standard item for most suppliers, but a reducing
tee NPS 16 x 2 is probably not available by any supplier.
It would also not economical to use a NPS 16 tee with a NPS 2 outlet; in such situations a
Branch Fitting will be used or a Branch Connection will be made.
In addition to the defined tees, there are straight and reducing crosses.
Straight crosses are generally stock items, reducing crosses are often difficult to obtain.
I have never used that tees and I have they never seen in practice, at least not in petro and
chemical industry. They will be used where space is limited, by revision work, in shipping
industry et cetera.

Image of a equal buttweld cross Tee.

Wall thickness Tee

By the shape of a tee, the wall thickness can be a critical item. ASME B16.9 only standardizes
the end-to-end dimensions, center-to-end dimensions and some "squareness" dimensional
tolerances. The wall thickness at the weld line location even is standardized, but not through
the rest of the fitting. The standard states that the minimum tolerance will be within 12.5% of
the minimum ordered wall thickness of the pipe. A maximum tolerance is specified only at the
ends of the fitting.
Many providers of welding tees (and elbows) provide one schedule greater thickness so that
sufficient wall thickness, after forming, remains. In Tee's, the crotch radius (T) varies from
one manufacturer to another, but some establish itself as a requirement, 1.3 times the wall
thickness to maintain the crotch.

Buttweld Fittings: Reducers

Reducers be applied, to change from pipe diameter in one direction. Standard there are 2
possibilities, the concentric reducer, is usually used in vertical pipe lines, and the
eccentric reducer that is used in horizontal pipe lines.

Length of reducers
The length of a Reducer is very short in relation to the diameter, so in some dimensions the
transition from one to another diameter is very abruptly. For example, a reducer 6" x 2½" has
a length of 140 mm. On this short distance a pipeline will be reduced from 168.3 mm O.D. to
73 mm O.D. During the design phase of a new pipe system, a piping designer certainly must
think about it.

An alternative for a smoother flow would be to apply multiple reducers like:

 6" x 5" (L=140 mm)
 5" x 4" (L=127 mm)
 4" x 3½" (L=102 mm)
 3½" x 3" (L=102 mm)
 3" x 2½" (L=102 mm)
So, now the distance is approximately 573 mm if the 6" pipe is reduced to 2½" inches, and
and a smoother flow is guaranteed.
In practice this example will probably never occur, I hope, no no, I'm sure, there are better
designers like me.

TF & BF
On an isometric view, in a horizontal line, with a eccentric reducer must be declared, or the
flat side at the bottom or top must be assembled. Perhaps, you have ever seen on a drawing,
the abbreviation "TF" or "BF". This stands for respective "top flat" and "bottom flat"

Image with a eccentric reducer refers to BF

Buttweld fitting: Cap

Basically a cap will be applied, to shut down the end of a pipe. The Cap, as it is shown in the
image below, is available for all pipe dimensions, and is sometimes also used for other
purposes.
The large variations of caps, are the so-called ellipsoidal or dished heads. There are used to
close pipes of large diameters, and are similar to those used for constructing vessels.
Often you can see on a vessel drawing the name "Klöpperboden" ASME F & D, and it is a
German name for a special head. F & D stands as an abbreviation for flanged and dished, and
this form is also known as torispherical head defined.
"Korbbogenboden", is also an german indication that you can find on a vessel drawing. This
head is similar to the ellipsoidal head.

Buttweld fitting: Stub End

A Stub End always will be used with a Lap Joint flange, as a backing flange; both are shown on
the image below.

Image with a Stub End.

 Image with a Stub End and Lap Joint flange.

This flange connections are applied, in low-pressure and non critical applications, and is a
cheap method of flanging.
In a stainless steel pipe system, for example, a carbon steel flange can be applied, because
they are not come in contact with the product in the pipe.
Stub Ends are available in almost all pipe diameters. Dimensions and dimensional tolerances
are defined in the ASME B.16.9 standard. Light-weight corrosion resistant Stub Ends (fittings)
are defined in MSS SP43.

Fitting: Swage nipples

Swage nipples are often used in small diameter pipe systems, and are similar to buttweld
reducers. They are concentric and eccentric available, with various ends. The most common
types are:
 PBE = Plain Both Ends
 BBE = Beveled Both Ends
 TBE = Treaded Both Ends


Definition and Details of Socket Weld
Fittings ASME B16.11
Socket Weld fittings general
A Socket Weld is a pipe attachment detail in which a pipe is inserted into a recessed area of a
Valve, fitting or flange. In contrast to buttweld fittings, Socket Weld fittings are mainly used
for small pipe diameters (Small Bore Piping); generally for piping whose nominal diameter is
NPS 2 or smaller.
To join pipe to Valves and fittings or to other sections of pipe, fillet-type seal welds be used.
Socket-welded Joints construction is a good choice wherever the benefits of high leakage
integrity and great structural strength are important design considerations.
Fatigue resistance is lower than that in butt-welded construction due to the use of fillet welds
and abrupt fitting geometry, but it is still better than that of most mechanical joining methods.

Some details of Socket Weld fittings

SW Fittings are family of high pressure fittings are used in various industrial processes.
 They are used for lines conveying flammable, toxic or expensive material where no
leakage can be permitted, and for steam 300 to 600 PSI.
 They are used only in conjunction with ASME Pipe and are available in the same size
range.
 They are used in areas where pipe-work is permanent and are designed to provide
good flow characteristics.
 They are are produced to several ASTM standards and are manufactured in accordance
with ASME B16.11. The B16.11 standard covers pressure-temperature ratings, dimensions,
tolerances, marking, and material requirements for forged carbon and alloy steel.
Acceptable material forms are forgings, bars, seamless pipe, and seamless tubes which
conform to the fittings chemical compositions, melting practices, and mechanical property
requirements of ASTM A105, A182, or A350.
 They are available in three pressure ratings: Class 3000, 6000 and 9000.
 TYPES OF SOCKET WELD FITTINGS BY CLASS, SIZE AND WALL THICKNESS

Class Designation
Description
3000 6000 9000
Elbows 45 and 90 degrees, ½-4 ½-2 ½-2
Tees, Crosses, Couplings,
½-4 ½-2 ½-2
Half-Couplings,
End or Pipe Caps ½-4 ½-2 ½-2

Pipe Size
SCH 80 & XS SCH 160 XXS
by Wall Thickness
Plugs and Bushings are not identified. They may be used up through Class 6000 NPS

Advantages and disadvantages of Socket Weld fittings

Advantages
 The pipe need not be beveled for weld preparation.
 Temporary tack welding is no needed for alignment, because in principle the fitting
ensures proper alignment.
 The weld metal can not penetrate into the bore of the pipe.
 They can be used in place of threaded fittings, so the risk of leakage is much smaller.
 Radiography is not practical on the fillet weld; therefore correct fitting and welding is
crucial. The fillet weld may be inspected by surface examination, magnetic particle (MP), or
liquid penetrant (PT) examination methods.
 Construction costs are lower than with butt-welded joints due to the lack of exacting
fit-up requirements and elimination of special machining for butt weld end preparation.
Disadvantages
 The welder should ensure for a expansion gap of 1/16 inch (1.6 mm) between de pipe
and the shoulder of the socket.
ASME B31.1 para. 127.3 Preparation for Welding (E) Socket Weld Assembly says:
In assembly of the joint before welding, the pipe or tube shall be inserted into the socket
to the maximum depth and then withdrawn approximately 1/16" (1.6 mm) away from
contact between the end of the pipe and the shoulder of the socket.
 The expansion gap and internal crevices left in socket-welded systems promotes
corrosion and make them less suitable for corrosive or radioactive applications where solids
buildup at the joints may cause operating or maintenance problems. Generally require butt
welds in all pipe sizes with complete weld penetration to the inside of the piping.
 Socket welding are unacceptable for UltraHigh Hydrostatic Pressure (UHP) in Food
Industry application since they do not permit full penetration and leave overlaps and
crevices that are very difficult to clean, creating virtual leaks.

The purpose for the bottoming clearance in a Socket Weld is usually to reduce the residual
stress at the root of the weld that could occur during solidification of the weld metal, and to
allow for differential expansion of the mating elements.
Fittings for Socket Weld systems
Full-coupling

Termed Coupling, joins pipe two pipe or to a nipple etc..

Half-coupling

The Half Coupling can be directly welded to the run

pipe, to make a branch connection.

Reducing coupling
 Joints two different outside diameters of pipe.

Reducer insert

Socket Weld Reducer Inserts are manufactured to MSS SP-79.

They enable quick and economic combinations of pipeline
reductions to be made using standard Socket Weld fittings.

Union (MSS SP-83)

 It is a screwed joint design and it consists of three
interconnected pieces: two internally threads and a centerpiece that draws the ends together when rotated.
Unions should be screwed tight before the ends are welded to minimize warping of the seats.

Elbow 90°

This Elbows make 90° changes of direction in the run of pipe.

Elbow 45°
 This Elbows make 45° changes of direction in the run of pipe.

Tee Straight

This Tee makes 90° branch from the main run of pipe.

Cross
 Crosses makes 90° branch from the main run of pipe.

Cap (End Cap)

Seals the end of pipe.

Definition and details of O'let Branch

Connections
Branch Connection Fittings general
Branch Connection fittings (also known as O'lets) are fittings which provide an outlet from a
larger pipe to a smaller one (or one of the same size). The main pipe onto which the branch
connection is welded is usually called the Run or Header size. The pipe to which the branch
connection provides a channel is usually called the Branch or Outlet size. Branch connections
are in all sizes, types, bores, and classes, in a wide range of stainless steel, chrome-moly, and
other alloys.
Perhaps you know, Bonney Forge has been supplying quality branch fittings (O'lets) for many
years. In 1943 when Bonney Forge pioneered the "Shape of Reinforcement" for branch
connections, who would have thought it would fast become a recognized industry standard.
Today, Bonney Forge Branch Connections offer complete run pipe reinforcement while
avoiding cracks, fillet welds, and sharp re-entrant corner reinforcement tapering at the sides,
thus preventing abrupt changes in thickness where the fitting joins the header pipe.
Bonney Forge fittings meeting the 100% reinforcement requirement of applicable piping codes
i.e. ASME B31.1, B31.3, B31.4 and B31.8. They also meet the 2001 edition of MSS-SP-97
Standard- "Integrally Reinforced Forged Branch Outlet Fittings".

Types of Branch Connection Fittings

Weldolet
 Weldolet® is the most common of all branch connections,
and is welded onto the outlet pipe. The ends are bevelled to facilitate this process, and
therefore the weldolet is considered a butt-weld fitting. Weldolet's are designed to minimize
stress concentrations and provide integral reinforcement.

Sockolet

Sockolet® utilizes the basic Weldolet® however the branch affixes by way of a socket inside
the olet. The bore matches the outlet bore, and the existence of a counter bore roughly the
size of the OD of the outlet provides a socket where the pipe can sit, facilitating installation
and welding. The Sockolet® is considered a socket fitting, and manufactured in 3000#, 6000#
and 9000# classes.

Thredolet
 Thredolet® utilizes the basic Weldolet® however the
branch affixes by way of a thread just inside the top of the olet. The bore matches the outlet
bore, and the existence of this threading facilitates installation, as no welding is necessary.
The Thredolet® is considered a threaded fitting, andmanufactured in 3000# and 6000#
classes.

Latrolet

Latrolet®, used for 45° lateral connections, is

available butt-weld to meet specific reinforcement requirements, and 3000# or 6000# classes
for Socket Weld and threaded applications.

Elbolet
 Elbolet® is used on 90° Long Radius Elbows (can be
manufactured for Short Radius Elbows) for thermowell and instrumentation connections.
Available butt-weld to meet specific reinforcement requirements, and 3000# and 6000#
classes for Socket Weld and threaded applications.

Nipolet

Nipolet® is a one piece fitting for valve take-offs,

drains and vents. Manufactured for Extra Strong and Double Extra Strong applications in 3
1/2in to 6 1/2in lengths. Available with male-socket-weld or male threaded outlets.

Sweepolet
 Sweepolet® is a contoured, integrally reinforced, butt-
weld branch connection with a low stress intensification factor for low stresses and long fatigue
life. The attachment weld is easily examined by radiography, ultrasound and other standard
non-destructive techniques. Manufactured to meet your specific reinforcement requirements.

Specifying the Schedule of both the Run and Branch

Generally the schedules of the run pipe and branch pipe are identical and thus specification of
the equivalent schedule Weldolet assures the proper fitting being used.

Example:
16" Standard weight x 6" Standard weight is specified as a 6" standard weight fitting.
Where the schedule of the run is greater or less than the schedule of the branch, it is essential
that both schedules be specified since (a) The Weldolet's reinforcing characteristics are a
function of the run pipe wall thickness, which in turn designates the schedule of the basic
Weldolet® fitting to be used;(b) The wall thickness of the outlet or branch end must match
the wall thickness of the branch pipe.

Example:
16" Extra strong x 6" Standard weight
16" Standard weight x 6" Extra strong
Special care is suggested to avoid confusing schedule 40 and standard weight as being
identical (above 10" schedule 40 is heavier) and schedule 80 and extra strong (above 8"
schedule 80 is heavier).
Example:
8" Schedule 80 x 4" Schedule 80 fitting or extra strong fitting.18" Schedule 80 x 4" Schedule
80 is a considerably heavier fitting, because the reinforcement is for 18" schedule 80 pipe with
a wall thickness of approximately 1".
The Weldolet® is available in standard code designs for all combinations of run wall
thicknesses up through 3 1/2" thickness and branch wall thicknesses up through double extra
strong. Designs for thicknesses greater than these can be developed on request.

Definition and Details of Flanges - What

is a Flange? –
A flange is a method of connecting pipes, valves, pumps and other equipment to form a piping
system. It also provides easy access for cleaning, inspection or modification. Flanges are
usually welded or screwed. Flanged joints are made by bolting together two flanges with a
gasket between them to provide a seal.

Types of Flanges
The most used flange types in Petro and chemical industry are:

 Welding Neck Flange

 Slip On Flange
 Socket Weld Flange
 Lap Joint Flange
 Threaded Flange
 Blind Flange

Materials for Flanges

Pipe flanges are manufactured in all the different materials like stainless steel, cast iron,
aluminium, brass, bronze, plastic etc. but the most used material is forged carbon steel and
have machined surfaces.
In addition, flanges, like fittings and pipes, for specific purposes sometimes internally
equipped with layers of materials of a completely different quality as the flanges themselves,
which are "lined flanges".
The material of a flange, is basically set during the choice of the pipe, in most cases, a flange
is of the same material as the pipe.
All flanges, discussed on this website fall under the ASME en ASTM standards, unless
otherwise indicated. ASME B16.5 describes dimensions, dimensional tolerances etc. and ASTM
the different material qualities.

Dimensions of Flanges

Each flange ASME B16.5 has a number of standard dimensions. If a draftsman in Japan or a
work preparer in Canada or a pipefitter in Australia is speaking about a Welding Neck flange
6"-150#-S40 ASME B16.5, then it goes over the flange which in the image here on the left is
shown.
If the flange is ordered, the supplier want to know the material quality. For example ASTM
A105 is a forged carbon steel flange, while A182 is a forged stainless steel flange.
So, in a correct order to a supplier two standards must be specified:
Welding Neck flange 6"-150#-S40-ASME B16.5 / ASTM A105.
Bolted Flange connections
A bolted flange connection is a complex combination of many factors (Flange, Bolts, Process,
Temperature, Pressure, Medium).
All these various elements are interrelated and depend upon one another to achieve a
successful result.
The reliability of the flanged joint depends critically upon competent control of the joint
making process.

Definition and Details of Flanges - Types

of Flanges –
Flange types
As already described before, the most used flange types acc. to ASME B16.5 are:
Welding Neck, Slip On, Socket Weld, Lap Joint, Threaded and Blind flange. Below you will find
a short description and definition of each type, completed with an detailed image.

Welding Neck flange

Welding Neck Flanges are easy to recognize at the long tapered hub, that goes gradually over
to the wall thickness from a pipe or fitting.
The long tapered hub provides an important reinforcement for use in several applications
involving high pressure, sub-zero and / or elevated temperatures. The smooth transition from
flange thickness to pipe or fitting wall thickness effected by the taper is extremely beneficial,
under conditions of repeated bending, caused by line expansion or other variable forces.
These flanges are bored to match the inside diameter of the mating pipe or fitting so there will
be no restriction of product flow. This prevents turbulence at the joint and reduces erosion.
They also provide excellent stress distribution through the tapered hub and are easily
radiographed for flaw detection.
This flange type will be welded to a pipe or fitting with a single full penetration, V weld
(Buttweld).

Slip On flange

The calculated strength from a Slip On flange under internal pressure is of the order of two-
thirds that of Welding Neck flanges, and their life under fatigue is about one-third that of the
latter.
The connection with the pipe is done with 2 fillet welds, as well at the outside as also at the
inside of the flange.
The X measure on the image, are approximately:
Wall thickness of pipe + 3 mm.
This space is necessary, to do not damage the flange face, during the welding process.
A disadvantage of the flange is, that principle always firstly a pipe must be welded and then
just a fitting. A combination of flange and elbow or flange and tee is not possible, because
named fittings have not a straight end, that complete slid in the Slip On flange.
Socket Weld flange
Socket Weld flanges were initially developed for use on small-size high pressure piping. Their
static strength is equal to Slip On flanges, but their fatigue strength 50% greater than double-
welded Slip On flanges.
The connection with the pipe is done with 1 fillet weld, at the outside of the flange. But before
welding, a space must be created between flange or fitting and pipe.
ASME B31.1 1998 127.3 Preparation for Welding (E) Socket Weld Assembly says:
In assembly of the joint before welding, the pipe or tube shall be inserted into the socket to
the maximum depth and then withdrawn approximately 1/16" (1.6 mm) away from contact
between the end of the pipe and the shoulder of the socket.
The purpose for the bottoming clearance in a Socket Weld is usually to reduce the residual
stress at the root of the weld that could occur during solidification of the weld metal. The
image shows you the X measure for the expansion gap.
The disadvantage of this flange is right the gap, that must be made. By corrosive products,
and mainly in stainless steel pipe systems, the crack between pipe and flange can give
corrosion problems. In some processes this flange is also not allowed. I am not an expert in
this matter, but on the internet, you will find a lot of information about forms of corrosion.
Also for this flange counts, that principle always firstly a pipe must be welded and then just a
fitting.
Lap Joint flange
Lap Joint Flanges have all the same common dimensions as any other flange named on this
page however it does not have a raised face, they used in conjunction with a "Lap Joint Stub
End".
These flanges are nearly identical to a Slip On flange with the exception of a radius at the
intersection of the flange face and the bore to accommodate the flanged portion of the Stub
End.
Their pressure-holding ability is little, if any, better than that of Slip On flanges and the fatigue
life for the assembly is only one tenth that of Welding Neck flanges.
They may be used at all pressures and are available in a full size range. These flanges slip
over the pipe, and are not welded or otherwise fastened to it. Bolting pressure is transmitted
to the gasket by the pressure of the flange against the back of the pipe lap (Stub End).
Lap Joint flanges have certain special advantages:
 Freedom to swivel around the pipe facilitates the lining up of opposing flange bolt
holes.
 Lack of contact with the fluid in the pipe often permits the use of inexpensive
carbon steel flanges with corrosion resistant pipe.
 In systems which erode or corrode quickly, the flanges may be salvaged for re-use.

Stub End
A Stub End always will be used with a Lap Joint flange, as a backing flange.
This flange connections are applied, in low-pressure and non critical applications, and is a
cheap method of flanging.
In a stainless steel pipe system, for example, a carbon steel flange can be applied, because
they are not come in contact with the product in the pipe.
Stub Ends are available in almost all pipe diameters. Dimensions and dimensional tolerances
are defined in the ASME B.16.9 standard. Light-weight corrosion resistant Stub Ends (fittings)
are defined in MSS SP43.

Threaded flange
Threaded Flanges are used for special circumstances with their main advantage being that
they can be attached to the pipe without welding. Sometimes a seal weld is also used in
conjunction with the threaded connection.
Although still available in most sizes and pressure ratings, screwed fittings today are used
almost exclusively in smaller pipe sizes.
A threaded flange or fitting is not suitable for a pipe system with thin wall thickness, because
cutting thread on a pipe is not possible. Thus, thicker wall thickness must be chosen...what is
thicker ?
ASME B31.3 Piping Guide says:
Where steel pipe is threaded and used for steam service above 250 psi or for water service
above 100 psi with water temperatures above 220° F, the pipe shall be seamless and have a
thickness at least equal to schedule 80 of ASME B36.10.
Blind flange
Blind Flanges are manufactured without a bore and used to blank off the ends of piping,
Valves and pressure vessel openings.
From the standpoint of internal pressure and bolt loading, blind flanges, particularly in the
larger sizes, are the most highly stressed flange types.
However, most of these stresses are bending types near the center, and since there is no
standard inside diameter, these flanges are suitable for higher pressure temperature
applications.