Installing flanges in piping systems needs precision. A single mistake can lead to leakage and damage. What if there was a flange that doesn’t require high precision for installation? Wouldn’t it be better?
This is where the slip-on flange comes into the picture. You don’t have to precisely align the flange while installation. They are easy to install and maintain.
In this blog, we are going to discuss slip-on flanges, their advantages, and how they differ from other types of flanges.
So, let’s start with what is slip-on flanges.
As the name suggests, a slip-on flange is designed to slide over the end of the pipes. These flanges are slightly bigger in diameter than the pipe outer diameter. So you can easily slide them.
Once you slide them over the pipe and place it the proper position and alignment, you can weld them. They should be welded from both ends. It is to make sure that they are reliable and safe to use.
There are many advantages of using slip-on flanges in piping systems. Let’s learn about them.
Slip-on flanges are very easy to install. You can just slide it in the pipe and then weld it. They require less precision in cutting the pipe to the right length, as slip-on flange slips over the pipe. Also, they can easily be aligned, reducing the time and labor costs needed for installation.
Slip on flanges are affordable when compared to other flange types. You can buy them for low rates. And you don’t have to spend much money on installation. They are easy to install and maintain. It saves you labor costs and time as no surface preparation is required before welding like weld neck raised face flanges.
Slip-on flanges are thinner and require less material for manufacturing. It makes them lighter and less expensive compared to other flanges like weld neck flanges. Also, the process is less complicated compared to weld neck flanges.
Slip-on flanges are slightly bigger in diameter than the pipe. When you properly weld it, it provides a reliable and tight seal. This seal helps reduce the leakage. It makes these flanges an ideal choice for handling fluids.
Slip-on flanges can be used under different conditions. You can use them in environments with low pressure and temperature. So, industries operating under low-risk environments can use slip-on flanges.
Slip-on flanges are usually used in industries operating under low pressure and temperature requirements. Here are some examples of different industries using slip-on flanges with their use cases.
Generally, water treatment plants work under low-pressure conditions. So, slip-on flanges can be used in piping systems from one place to another. Slip-on flanges are easy to assemble and maintain. So water treatment plants can easily clean and maintain them. They can save companies time and money.
Slip-on flanges are easy to install and repair. It makes it the best option for use in HVAC systems. They are generally used in ductwork and low-pressure gas lines, where cost efficiency and regular maintenance are very important.
Slip-on flanges are used in sprinkler systems and other fire protection equipment. They are important because fire protection systems require quick assembly. They are also cost-effective, which is important as fire protection systems are important in fire conditions.
Light industrial manufacturing companies use slip-on flanges in their compressed air and low-pressure stream systems. For example, the Textile industry uses them in compressed air systems to make sure that the machinery runs smoothly. These flanges are quick to install and low cost making it a best choice for light industrial manufacturing companies.
Slip-on flanges differ from other types of flanges in many ways. Here is a list of few parameters that makes slip-on flanges different.
Slip-on flanges let you slide the flange in the pipe to align it easily and install it faster. Other flanges, like weld neck flanges, directly connect to the pipe which needs precision. But slip-on flanges don’t really need precision. They are more flexible by design.
Other flanges, like weld neck and blind flanges, are costly compared to slip-on flanges. Slip-on flanges are thin and light. They use less material to manufacture. It makes them affordable, and the use of less material also makes installation easy.
Slip-on flanges are designed to operate under low pressure and temperature conditions. So, they are the best choice among all the flanges that operate under low pressure and temperature conditions.
Most flanges are welded from a single end. But slip-on flanges are welded from both the inside and outside. It creates a strong seal and prevents leakage.
In short, slip on flanges are the best choice to operate under low pressure and temperature conditions. Now that we have seen the advantages and use cases of slip-on flanges, lets take a look at some tips to install and maintain them.
Clean both the pipe and the flange. Remove if there is any oil or dirt. Make sure there is no damage that looks for any damage that can affect a proper fit or sealing. If you are using raised face flanges, you must ensure that it has proper serrations. So the gasket can fit easily, and leakage can be avoided. Generally, concentric serration is preferred, but sometimes non concentric raised faces are also used. Concentric raise face should be generally 125AARH.
Slide the flange over the end of the pipe. It is always better to align it properly. Flanges with bigger diameters help you do it smoothly.
properly align your pipe and flange in the correct position. It can help you with even welding.
Slip on flange welding from both the inside and the outside. Look for manufacturer guidelines when using a welding material. It ensures that your welding is smooth and durable.
Here are four maintenance tips that can help you make your piping system durable and operate smoothly.
Check flanges regularly for any wear, corrosion, or damage. Make sure that welded areas don’t have any leakage.
Tighten the bolts periodically to secure the flanges. Bolts sometimes loosen up due to vibration, so keep an eye on them.
Regularly clean flanges so there is no rust or debris on them. It can help you maintain proper sealing without any leakage. Check manufacturer guidelines before using any solvents and cleaners.
Keep a log: After every maintenance or changing any components, write it down in a log. So, engineers from different shifts can know about the maintenance.
Slip-on flanges offer many advantages and are an ideal choice for industries operating under low pressure and temperature. By understanding how and when to use these flanges, you can ensure that your operations run smoothly without any machine downtime. Whether you are working on a new project or upgrading an existing one, slip-on flanges are an amazing choice to consider.
At KMS Engineers, we are a leading manufacturer and exporter of slip-on flanges. Our flanges are manufactured with industry and safety standards in mind. We offer a variety of flanges and piping equipment.
Call us at 07990688545 or email us at amit@kmsengineers.com and share your requirements for Slip-on flanges and other piping equipment.
A seasoned Electronics and Communications engineer, Amitkumar Miyani brings over 12 years of experience in Pipe Fitting Manufacturing to KMS. He plays a pivotal role in overseeing the Purchase, Sales, and Finance departments, ensuring operational efficiency and financial stability.
