Blind Flanges Explained

What is a blind flange?

A blind flange (also called a ‘closure plate flange’) is installed at the end of a piping system to terminate a pipe. It has no centre hole (bore), so there is no flow through the flange. A blind flange may be used for isolating a pipe, valve, or pressure vessel. This type of flange is available in all sizes and classes, and may use a flat, raised, or ring-type joint face.

Blind Flange Terminating Pipe

Blind Flange Terminating Pipe

A blind flange can replace a butt weld cap in case an extension of the piping line is required, or in case a piping inspection is required (remove the blind flange to access the pipe interior). This type of flange can also be used as the rod access point on drain systems. Depending upon the application, a blind flange may be drilled and used as a slip-on flange, or tapped and used as a threaded flange.

Despite its simplistic design, this type of flange is comparatively expensive.

Blind FlangeBlind Flange

Blind Flange

 

Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) Techniques

Blind flanges are not usually part of any routine non-destructive inspection (NDI) program. It is possible to measure the thickness of a blind flange as a precautionary measure, but this rarely occurs.

ASME Standards

The ASME B16.5 standard details the dimensions and tolerance requirements for blind flanges.

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Flange Types, Faces, and Surfaces - Explained!

This video is part of our Piping Flange Fundamentals Video Course

 

Additional Resources

http://www.wermac.org/flanges/flanges_welding-neck_socket-weld_lap-joint_screwed_blind.html

http://www.sunnysteel.com/what-is-a-blind-flange.php

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flange

https://www.garlock.com/sites/default/files/documents/en/Blind%20Flanges%20-%20TECHNICAL%20BULLETIN.pdf