Petrochemical companies including ESSO, SHELL, APA, API, WOODSIDE, EXXON MOBIL, Chevron, Bechtel all have specialist requirements. These can be supplied in a stunning range of materials and configurations.
Petrochemical companies with their own specifications
What is stainless flange?
This is a flange made from stainless steel. Most standards specify a range of materials the flanges can be manufactured from including Stainless Steel. Stainless steel is a generic classification for steel that has a varied resistance to corrosion. Mostly these materials have a high Nickel and Chromium content.
What stainless steel material and grade should I select?
The most common stainless steels are:
- 304/304L Stainless Steel 8-11% nickel, 18-20% Chromium
This is a general purpose stainless steel that is suitable for outdoor use. - 316/316L Stainless Steel 10-14% nickel, 16-18% Chromium, 2-3% Molybdenum.
This has better corrosion ability specifically where chlorine is present. - Duplex Stainless Steel. Known as A240 2205 or A182 F51
4.5-6.5% nickel, 21-23% Chromium, 2.5-3.5% Molybdenum
Used where extreme corrosion resistance is required such as in seawater.
These stainless steels require specific manufacturing techniques and heat treatment to achieve the corrosion resistance ability.
The material used to manufacture the flange is chosen specifically to cope with the fluid being transported and the environment.
Explain the properties and typical applications of each material.
Sizes and Specifications grades/shapes
- Available sizes (e.g., 1/2" to 24")
- Pressure ratings (e.g., 150#, 300#, 600#)
- Standards (e.g., ASME, DIN, JIS)
- Flange Type
Applications
List and briefly describe common applications in various industries:
- Oil and Gas – used where corrosive fluids are being transported for their process or to clean the lines
- Chemical Processing. Many processes are very corrosive and it is not uncommon to use stainless steel with a protective paint.
- Food and Beverage. Everything in food is done with stainless steel that does not contaminate the contents and resists the cleaning chemicals used
- Water Treatment. 2205 and 316 is used extensively in desalination plants and associated piping.
Why use stainless flanges?
Stainless flanges are used when either the process demands it or the environment is corrosive or both. Sometimes stainless flanges are used because they look terrific such as in engine rooms in boats where everything is kept clean and shiny.
Stainless flange vs carbon flange
Stainless flanges are always more expensive than the carbon steel variant. It comes down to corrosion resistance and cost, and in some cases, presentation.
What is duplex stainless steel flange?
A stainless flange from A240 2205 or A182 F51.
304 vs 316
Use 316 where more corrosion resistance is required and the extra cost is justified.
How to install stainless steel flanges with pipes?
Stainless flanges are welded to the stainless pipe providing a corrosion resistant joint that can be bolted to a valve or more piping.
How much pressure can a stainless steel flange take?
Pressure ratings of flanges are found in the standard applicable to the flange being used. Additional standards mostly include temperature derating charts so the capability of the flange to withstand pressure is documented as the temperature increases. Generally, the ranges are pressure dependent, so AS4087 PN 16 means 16 bar and ASME B16.5 300 lbs is indicative of the pressure withstood.
Can we mix carbon steel flange with stainless steel flange?
Yes, it is OK to bolt stainless steel flanges to carbon steel flanges.
Flange Standards
Flange tables are produced to assist engineers in selecting the right flange. Always
refer the selection of
flanges to a qualified person.
Learn about flange standards
Flange Basics
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