matingfläns

A mating flange is a flange designed to connect two components in a piping or mechanical system, providing a flat sealing surface and a means to fasten the parts together with bolts. In practice, the term often refers to the flange on one side of a joint that is intended to mate with a corresponding flange on the adjacent component, together with a gasket to form a leak-tight seal.

Standardization and compatibility are important for mating flanges. They follow established dimensions, bolt patterns, and pressure ratings defined by organizations such as ASME, DIN, and JIS. Common references include ASME B16.5 and B16.47 for pipe flanges, DIN EN 1092-1, and JIS B2220. Flanges are sized by nominal pipe size (NPS) in the US or DN in Europe, and by a pressure-temperature rating. To be compatible, mating flanges should match in size, rating, and facing type.

Flange faces and materials vary. Typical face types include raised face (RF), flat face (FF), ring-type joint (RTJ), and tongue-and-groove (T&G). Materials range from carbon steel and stainless steel to alloy steels and nonferrous alloys, selected for corrosion resistance, strength, and service conditions. Gaskets, seals, and bolt patterns must be chosen to suit the fluid, temperature, and pressure.

Installation and maintenance are critical. Proper alignment, gasket selection, and correct bolt tightening (often in a cross-pattern and to a specified torque) are required to achieve a reliable seal. Regular inspection for leaks, corrosion, or deformation is advised, with replacement of damaged flanges or gaskets as needed.

Applications encompass oil and gas, chemical processing, water networks, and general industrial piping, where durable, removable joints are needed for inspection or repair.