Product Description
Stainless Steel Blind Flanges (often designated as BL, BLRF, or BLRTJ) are solid forged or plate discs without a central bore, used to blank off, cap, or isolate pipeline ends, pressure vessel nozzles, and valve outlets.
1. Operating Principle & Key Functions
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System Termination: Acts as a removable seal to cap off line ends, manifold branch headers, and pressure vessel openings.
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Maintenance & Inspection Access: Allows quick access into piping spools or vessels during maintenance, hydro-testing, or internal cleanouts when unbolted.
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Pressure Isolation: Withstands full system internal pressure and bending loads across the entire disc face, making it one of the highest-stressed flange configurations in a piping loop.
2. Sealing Face Configurations
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RF (Raised Face): Features a raised seating area with concentric serrations (125 to 250 AARH) for spiral wound or flat gaskets; standard for Class 150 through Class 600.
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RTJ (Ring Type Joint): Machined with an annular metallic groove to house solid oval or octagonal metal ring gaskets; mandatory for high-pressure, high-temperature lines (Class 600 and above).
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FF (Flat Face): Full flat contact surface; primarily used when mating against cast equipment, low-pressure stainless steel, or plastic-lined systems to prevent flange cracking.
3. Common Stainless Steel Material Specifications
Stainless steel blind flanges are specified under ASTM A182 (forged) or ASTM A240 (plate material):
| Alloy Grade | Common Designation | Key Characteristics & Service Application |
| Austenitic 304 / 304L | UNS S30400 / S30403 | Standard grade for general corrosion, water treatment, and food/beverage processing. |
| Austenitic 316 / 316L | UNS S31600 / S31603 | Molybdenum-bearing alloy offering superior resistance to chlorides, acids, and marine pitting. |
| High-Temp 321 / 347 | UNS S32100 / S34700 | Titanium/Niobium-stabilized grades for high-temperature service ($> 400^circtext{C}$). |
| Duplex 2205 | ASTM A182 F51 / UNS S31803 | High yield strength with excellent resistance to stress corrosion cracking in sour environments. |
| Super Duplex 2507 | ASTM A182 F53 / UNS S32750 | Severe offshore oil and gas, desalination, and chemical process service. |
4. Applicable Standards & Dimensional Specs
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ASME B16.5: Pipe Flanges and Flanged Fittings ($text{NPS } 1/2 text{ to } 24$, Class 150, 300, 400, 600, 900, 1500, 2500).
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ASME B16.47 Series A & B: Large Diameter Steel Flanges ($text{NPS } 26 text{ to } 60$).
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EN 1092-1 Type 05: European standard for blank / blind flanges (PN 2.5 through PN 400).
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JIS B2220 BL: Japanese standard blind flanges (5K through 30K).
Precision Engineering & ComplianceThis flange is meticulously forged and solution annealed, ensuring robust mechanical properties and a polished, corrosion-resistant finish. It is fully compliant with ASTM A182 and ASME/ANSI B16.5 for quality assurance and standardized integration into piping systems. Markings clearly indicate all critical parameters, such as size, grade, and manufacturer.
Versatile Application and Superior PerformanceDesigned for diverse industries-including Oil & Gas, Chemical Processing, and Water Treatment-these flanges offer dependability under high pressures and temperatures up to 600C. Their 304/304L stainless steel composition ensures high strength, durability, and corrosion resistance for challenging operational environments.
Customizable & Secure PackagingAdaptable to various project requirements, these blind flanges are available in customizable dimensions and are packaged securely in wooden cases or pallets to ensure safe transportation. Their round, polished design facilitates easy installation across a range of industrial applications.
FAQ's of Stainless Steel Blind Flange:
Q: How is the Stainless Steel Blind Flange with Weld Neck installed in a piping system?
A: The flange is welded to the end of a pipe, creating a secure and leak-proof connection. The raised face (RF) ensures optimal sealing when mated with a compatible gasket and bolted to another flange, making installation straightforward in industrial setups.
Q: What advantages does a solution-annealed SS 304/304L flange offer for industrial applications?
A: Solution-annealing enhances the mechanical properties of stainless steel, resulting in improved corrosion resistance and strength. This ensures that the flange can withstand harsh environments, high temperatures (up to 600C), and pressures up to 150# with outstanding durability.
Q: When should a blind flange be used instead of other flange types?
A: A blind flange is ideal for sealing pipe ends, isolating systems, or allowing future extensions. It ensures safe closure of piping systems during maintenance or system modification, especially in applications requiring high integrity and easy access.
Q: Where are SS 304/304L blind flanges commonly applied?
A: These flanges are widely used in Oil & Gas fields, chemical processing facilities, water treatment plants, and general industrial piping networks where corrosion resistance, strength, and reliable sealing are essential.
Q: What is the process for customizing the dimensions of the flange?
A: Customers can specify their required dimensions when placing an order. The manufacturer then fabricates each flange to meet those specifications while adhering to industry standards, ensuring compatibility with existing systems.
Q: What benefits do the standard markings (size, grade, pressure, manufacturer) provide?
A: Standard markings enable easy identification and traceability of each flange. This facilitates inspection, maintenance, and system upgrades, ensuring the correct components are used and simplifying compliance with industry regulations.
Q: How is the product packaged for delivery and export?
A: Each flange is securely packed in wooden cases or pallets to prevent damage during transit, making them suitable for local delivery or international export. This ensures the product arrives in pristine condition, ready for installation.