Guide To Stainless Steel Flanges And Fittings Its Benefits

When high durability and corrosion resistance are required, stainless steel flange and fittings are often suitable choices. Stainless steel offers better longevity than hot dip galvanized steel because it is stronger and more corrosion-resistant. When buy a stainless steel flange and fittings, consider the specific manufacturing technique used to produce stainless steel, the most common options being forged, cast, or cut. You will also choose the grade that suits the application you want.

Benefits of Stainless Steel Flanges and Fittings

Stainless steel is corrosion resistant due to the addition of chromium, the source of the thin oxide layer on the surface of the material. This inert layer protects the material but can rust even if the protective layer is damaged. Stainless steel is incredibly durable and easy to maintain and it self-treats. The protective chromium barrier on the surface of the material can re-form to repair limited surface damage.

Proper flange and fitting maintenance aids in the continued prevention of corrosion and surface damage. Corrosion can also occur when exposed to salt, such as in coastal environments or when sensitive to road salt. Choosing the correct grade for your intended use and performing routine maintenance using the proper solvents can help stainless steel components keep their maximum performance. It is also a versatile option for piping systems. Stainless steel components can be modified or manufactured to your exact specifications to create custom flange or fitting solutions.

What Applications Are Stainless Steel Flanges Used For?

In industrial, commercial, and residential pipe systems, stainless steel flange and fittings are employed. The strength, corrosion resistance, and ability to withstand high temperatures, pressures, and flows make stainless steel a common choice for transporting gases or liquids, for chemical processing, and in marine applications that call for hygienic usage and corrosion resistance. If you need assistance in choosing the right stainless steel grade and flange type for your desired application refer to the appropriate standards or contact us.

Common Stainless Steel Flange Types

Numerous standards, including AWWA, DIN or metric, and ANSI-category rated, can be satisfied by stainless steel flanges. Within these standards, you can find the most common flange types – and custom machining is available to prepare the flange for your individual needs and intended application.

The most typical varieties of stainless steel flanges are:

• Adding neck
• Slip-on or ring
• Socket Weld
• Lap joint
• Blind

Other sections of the pipe system, such as elbows, nipples, braided pump connections, and threaded couplings, are also made of stainless steel in addition to the flange. Refer to the standards of the application you want to determine the appropriate stainless steel piping system components.

What Standards Are Applicable to Fittings and Flanges Made of Stainless Steel?

The chemical makeup, measurements, pressure ratings, and other specifications of the flange and fitting materials needed for pipe systems are established by a number of standards. Standards that apply most frequently to stainless steel include:

• ASTM A182 covers forged or rolled piping system components for high-temperature service
• ASME B16. 5 is a dimensional standard applicable to pipe flange and flange fittings including stainless steel
• ASME B16.47 is specific for large-diameter steel and stainless steel flange

Choosing Stainless Steel Grade for Flanges

When choosing stainless steel fittings, flange, and accessories, you will need the appropriate grade to suit the application you want. However, the correct grade of stainless steel is essential to ensure it can withstand the intended use. Using the wrong grade at high temperatures can cause the piping system to deform or otherwise deform. Selecting the appropriate grade to suit the intended application helps prevent damage or prompt failure of the piping system.

What’s the Difference Between 304 and 316 Stainless Steel?

While both 304 and 316 stainless steel are corrosion resistant, 316 stainless steel contains nickel and molybdenum for better performance at high temperatures and better corrosion resistance. Because it offers superior resistance to saltwater corrosion, 304 stainless steel is preferred over 316 stainless steel for marine environments.

What Does the L Mean in Stainless Steel?

Available in stainless steel 304 and 304L and 316 and 316L. L designates stainless steel with a lower carbon content than standard 304 or 316, so it is softer and offers better weldability. Each of these options 304, 304L, 316, and 316L offer corrosion resistance and higher tensile strength, but 304L and 316L are more corrosion resistant than 304 or 316. 

Dual-grade stainless steel that is either 304/304L or 316/316L fulfills more than one Standard. For example, the chemical composition of 304 / 304L stainless steel meets the certification requirements for 304L stainless steel and the requirements of 304 stainless steel. Dual-Grade stainless steel conforms to AWWA C228 specifications.

Stainless Steel Piping Systems for Saltwater Exposure

When selecting components for your piping system, determine the expected temperature range and tensile stress, how much salt water exposure the piping system will receive, and which other elements may come into contact with the components. High saltwater exposure in areas with saline environments such as for marine use or in splash zones 316, 316L, or dual 316/316L stainless steel may be the best choice due to its increased corrosion resistance.

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