Socket Weld Flange

Socket weld flange is usually suitable for smaller high-pressure pipelines and are connected to the pipeline through socket welding. It allows for a smooth bore and better flow of the gas or fluid inside the pipe. It is  usually provided with an RTJ facing, flat face, or raised face. Socket weld flange initially designed for high pressure small diameters piping system. Moreover, apply for projects such as industrial furnaces, thermal engineering, water supply and drainage, heating and ventilation, self-control, etc.

Features of  ASME B16.5 Flange

The recess on the inside diameter of the socket weld flange allows for a good fit of the pipe allowing for a smooth flow of liquid.

Socket welding flanges work well for smaller sizes and higher pressure temperature conditions.

They are similar to slip-on flanges, but must specify the schedule of the pipe where they will be used for with socket welds.

Socket Welded Flange Face Types

Socket welded flange including RF type and RTJ type, which like other types of welding flanges (slip on, weld neck or blind flange).

RF 

RF socket weld flange has a small portion surrounding the flange bore that protrudes from the face. Gasket seat will be placed in this raised area.

RTJ

On the raised face surface there has a groove is RTJ type, which you can place a gasket ring to get better sealing performances.

Difference Between Socket Weld Flanges and Weld Neck Flange

                 Socket Weld Flange                                                                                                  Weld Neck Flange

The primary distinction between socket weld flanges and weld neck flanges lies in their shape. Socket weld flanges are cylindrical with a small depression in the center. Weld neck flanges have a tapered neck with a beveled end that extends from the base of the cylinder. This taper makes it easier to align the welding joint during installation.

Advantages of Forged Flanges

It can replace the threaded flange to minimize the risk of leakage.

It doesn’t require beveling before welding.

Welding work outside the pipe won’t penetrate the pipe bore.

It is recommended for applications where internal welding operations are tough. Sock-welded construction while avoiding damage to the flange face caused by the weld. It also has the same internal pressure as the sliding on the flange with better fatigue life.

Markings

ASME B16.5 flange shall furnished with below marking requirements.

Name: Manufacturer name or trademark

Material: Material standard ASTM A105/ASTM A182/ASTM A694 etc.

Pressure Ratings: Class 150 to 2500

Conformance: ASME B16.5 /EN standard/other standard

Size: Diameter and pressure or thickness

Marking: 1″ CL150 SW RF A182 F316 ASME B16.5 ZZ12586

Applications

Socket weld flanges make a good fit for non-critical operations. These possess characteristics where it holds leakage resistance very high along with moderate structural strength.