[DETAILS] Flange machining process

The process of flange fabrication in general and stainless steel flange fabrication in particular is the process of manufacturing flanges used to connect pipes and equipment in piping systems. This process is carried out by skilled and experienced technicians at companies specializing in flange fabrication. Are you curious about this process? Check it out now!

This process typically includes the following steps:

Process of preparing materials for processing stainless steel flanges

Materials used to manufacture flanges are often carbon steel, stainless steel, or alloys. Here, when processing stainless steel flanges, we will use 304 stainless steel plates or 316 stainless steel plates. To ensure product quality, the material you choose needs to

• Meet the specific technical requirements of the flange product. Such as strength, heat resistance, corrosion resistance, hardness, ductility, etc.
• Suitable for the operating conditions of the pipeline system. Such as pressure, temperature, humidity, liquid or gas quality, etc.
• Reasonable price and suitable for the project budget.
• Able to be machined to form flange products. For example, materials that are too hard or too soft can cause difficulties in the machining process.
• Able to be recycled or reused to minimize the impact on the environment (if possible).
• Meet the standards and regulations related to the use and production of materials, such as ANSI, EN, JIS standards, etc.
  Come from reputable brands and manufacturers to ensure product quality.

Because each material will have different properties and characteristics. Therefore, processing stainless steel flanges will certainly be slightly different from processing steel flanges. Therefore, you should refer to the corresponding standards and regulations and seek advice from experts or manufacturers. This helps ensure that you have selected the right material for your application.

>>You can learn more about the characteristics of flanges machined from different materials through the following articles:

• Steel Flange
• Cast Iron Flange

Stainless steel flange processing process

Stainless steel flange processing includes steps such as polishing, grinding, drilling, grooving, and milling. This process is carried out on specialized machining machines to ensure the accuracy and durability of the flanges.

Flange machining usually includes the following steps:

Cutting material

The material is cut to the desired size using a plasma cutter or laser cutter.

Polishing and grinding

The material is polished and ground to remove cracks and uneven surfaces. By using grinding and polishing tools such as grinding stones, grinding wheels, or grinders.

Drill holes

Drill holes on the flange to create holes with the exact diameter that matches the diameter of the pipe or equipment being connected. Using drilling machines can be used to perform this step. Before drilling these holes, you need to know the exact location of the drill. To know these locations, you need to refer to the formula for dividing the holes on the flange that Bao Tin Steel has instructed.

Create groove

Grooves are created on the flange to increase the adhesion of the seals or rubber gaskets. By using milling machines and lathes.

Flange milling

Some types of flanges, such as flat flanges, require milling to achieve the highest accuracy. By using a milling machine.

Basically, the machining process of stainless steel, steel, and cast iron flanges goes through the same 5 steps above. However, depending on the specific requirements for the structure and design of the flange, technicians will use different tools and machines.

Quality control after stainless steel flange processing

After flanges are manufactured, they must be quality tested. Only quality flanges that meet standards are sold on the market. You can take the following measures to evaluate the quality of flanges:

1. Dimensional accuracy test. Dimensional accuracy test methods include measuring with a ruler, measuring accuracy with a precision gauge, and measuring deviation with a bore gauge.
2. Strength test. The strength of the flange can be tested through tensile strength, compression strength, and bending strength.
3. Adhesion test. The adhesion of the seals or rubber rings on the flange is tested using an adhesion tester.
4. Gloss test. The gloss of the flange can be tested using a gloss meter. This helps to ensure that the flange has a high gloss without any dirty spots or cracks on the surface.
5. Material test. The material of the flange needs to meet the standards and technical requirements. Material test methods include testing the toughness, hardness, and durability of the material.

Flange quality testing and evaluation methods are also very important in the flange manufacturing process. It will help ensure that the products meet technical requirements. At the same time, ensure the safety and efficiency of the pipeline system.

>> You can refer to the article: Formula for calculating flange weight because quality flanges will ensure size, thickness, weight, etc. following technical regulations. If there is no available specification table, you can directly calculate based on the instructions in the article.

Flange marking process after quality is achieved

Flange marking is an important process when manufacturing flanges. It ensures that the flanges are put into use properly and safely for the piping system. Here is some information that is required when marking flanges:

• Product Name
• Size
• Pressure
• Standard
• Manufacturer Information

• Inside diameter: marked with “ID.” Followed by the inside diameter of the flange.
  Outside diameter: marked with “OD.” Followed by the outside diameter of the flange.
• Thickness: marked with “THK.” Followed by the thickness of the flange.
  Connection standard: marked with “STANDARD.” Followed by the connection standard code of the flange.
• Pressure: marked with “PRESSURE CLASS.” Followed by the pressure code of the flange.
• Material: marked with “MATERIAL.” Followed by the material code of the flange.
  Required number of holes: marked with “NUMBER OF HOLES.” Followed by the number of holes required on the flange.

You need to understand the standards and technical requirements in flange manufacturing. The machined flange will fully meet the above regulations.

Packaging and shipping to consumers

Packing:

Flanges should be packed in wooden crates. To protect them from impact and scratches during transportation. In addition, cushioning materials such as foam or paper should be used. To ensure that the flanges are not deformed during transportation.

Preserve:

Flanges should be stored in a cool, dry place. To ensure that they are not damp or oxidized. Flanges should be avoided in places with high humidity, and high temperature. Or places exposed to direct sunlight.

Note:

Necessary information should be noted on the flange packaging. Such as product name, quantity, size, etc.

There is the flange processing process. Hopefully, the sharing from Bao Tin Steel will help you make this process simpler and more effective. If you need to process or buy flanges, do not hesitate to call us. We are always ready to serve – 0932 059 176!

Tiger steel is a branch of Bao Tin Steel