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Piping Flange Fundamentals
To ensure no leaking between the mating2 flanges occurs, gaskets are used. It is possible to mate two metal flanges
together without the use of gaskets, but sealing is difficult and can only be achieved with specially designed flanges.
The end connection specifies how the flange is connected to its accompanying pipe (threaded connection or welded).
Flange Design
How Flanges Work
A flange is created when two opposing surfaces are intentionally pressed together in order to create a leak tight seal. To
obtain a seal, force must be applied and maintained to each of the opposing flange faces. As many flange faces have
manufacturing imperfections (scratches, dents, pits etc.), it is necessary to put a softer material between the two mating
sealing surfaces to obtain the seal; this softer material is the gasket.
Flange Assembly
2 Mating – refers to the pressing together of two opposing flange face sealing surfaces.