What are the different types of bolted flange connections?

The classification of bolted flange connections involves identifying their design features that influence how they function and interact with other components in a piping system. The correct choice highlights three specific types of flanges: flat face, raised face, and ring-type joint flanges.

Flat face flanges have a flat surface that allows them to mate directly with the flat surface of a connection, making them suitable for applications where the sealing surface does not need to create a pressure seal. Raised face flanges, on the other hand, have a protruding section at the sealing surface which provides a more effective sealing mechanism under pressure, making them widely used in various industrial applications. Ring-type joint flanges are designed to use a soft metal ring as a gasket, which effectively seals the joint even under high pressures, commonly found in high-pressure piping.

This distinction is crucial for applications in fixed equipment, as the choice of flange type can significantly affect the integrity and safety of the piping system. Understanding these differences helps engineers and inspectors select and assess the appropriate flange for the application, ensuring reliable performance and compliance with industry standards.