What is socket weld flange?

What is socket weld flange?

Socket welding flange, a popular type of pipe flange, was initially developed for use on small-sized high- pressure piping. The fabrication of this type of flange is similar to that of a slip-on flange. However, the internal pocket of a socket weld flange allows for a smooth bore and better fluid flow. When provided with an internal weld, the static strength of this flange is equal to slip-on flange, but the fatigue strength is 50% greater than double welding slip-on flanges. 

Smooth bore conditions in such a flange can easily be attained without having to bevel the flange face and, after welding, to reface the socket weld flange as would be required with slip-on flanges. For this reason, the internally welded flange is popular in chemical process piping.

Materials used:

• Stainless Steel: ASTM A 182, A 240 F 304, 304L, 304H, 316, 316L, 316Ti, 310, 310S, 321, 321H, 317, 347, 347H,904L  
• Duplex Steel:  ASTM / ASME A/SA 182 F 44, F 45, F51, F 53, F 55, F 60, F 61  
• Alloy Steel: ASTM / ASME A/SA 182 & A 387 F1, F5, F9, F11, F12, F22, F91  
• Carbon Steel:  ASTM / ASME A/SA 105 ASTM / ASME A 350 , ASTM A 181 LF 2 / A516 Gr.70 A36, A694 F42, F46, F52, F60, F65, F70

Key Features:

• 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.

Uses of socket weld flanges:

• They are ideal for small diameter applications.
• They are used for high pressure applications.
• Socket weld flanges have an internal recess on the inside diameter which allow for a smoot flow of the process fluid.
• They create a smooth bore with the proper welding and grinding.

The socket weld flange is generally applied on pipes with smaller sizes but high pressure. These pipe flanges are attached by inserting the pipe into the socket end and applying fillet weld around the top. This allows for a smooth bore and better flow of the fluid or gas inside of the pipe. Slip on Pipe flanges with a hub has published specifications that range from 1/2 inch to 24 inch.

Socket Weld flanges are typically provided with a raised face, flat face, or RTJ facing. When a raised face is necessary for socket weld pipe flanges, the standard height is 1/16 inch for socket weld pipe flanges less than 400#. For socket weld pipe flanges of 400# and up, the standard socket weld pipe flange raised face height is 1/4 inch.

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