FLANGES

  1. Nominal Pipe Size (NPS):
    • Flanges come in different sizes specified by the nominal pipe size, which corresponds to the diameter of the pipe. Common sizes in the pharmaceutical industry can range from small NPS (e.g., 1/2 inch) to larger sizes (e.g., 6 inches or more).
  2. Flange Face Diameter:
    • The flange face diameter is a key dimension, and it corresponds to the outer diameter of the raised face of the flange. This dimension is important for determining the fit with gaskets.
  3. Bolt Circle Diameter:
    • The bolt circle diameter is the diameter of the circle formed by the centers of the bolt holes. This dimension is essential for aligning flanges during installation.

Description

  1. Connection and Joining:
    • Flanges provide a secure and leak-free connection between pipes, valves, and other equipment. They facilitate easy assembly and disassembly, allowing for quick installation and maintenance.
  2. Versatility:
    • Flanges are versatile components that can connect pipes of different materials, sizes, and types. This versatility is advantageous in pharmaceutical processes that involve various fluids and substances.
  3. Standardization:
    • Flanges are manufactured according to industry standards, such as ASME B16.5 or DIN standards. Standardization ensures compatibility and interchangeability of flanges, facilitating ease of procurement and system integration.
  4. Material Compatibility:
    • Flanges are available in various materials, such as stainless steel, which is commonly used in pharmaceutical applications due to its corrosion resistance and compatibility with pharmaceutical products.
  5. Sanitary Flanges:
    • In the pharmaceutical industry, sanitary flanges with smooth surfaces and crevice-free designs are often used to meet hygienic requirements and minimize the risk of contamination.
  6. Gasket Seals:
    • Flanges are designed to accommodate gaskets, providing a reliable seal between connected components. The choice of gasket material is crucial to ensure compatibility with pharmaceutical processes.
  7. Ease of Cleaning:
    • Sanitary flanges are designed for easy cleaning to meet the stringent hygiene standards of the pharmaceutical industry. Smooth surfaces and minimal crevices reduce the risk of bacterial growth.
  8. High Purity Standards:
    • Sanitary flanges are suitable for applications requiring high purity, such as the production of pharmaceuticals. They help maintain the integrity of the fluid by minimizing the potential for contamination.
  9. Pressure and Temperature Resistance:
    • Flanges are designed to withstand the pressure and temperature conditions encountered in pharmaceutical processes, ensuring the integrity of the connections under varying operating conditions.
  10. Bi-Directional Flow Capability:
    • Flanges are versatile in accommodating bi-directional flow, allowing for flexibility in controlling the direction of fluid flow in pharmaceutical systems.
  11. Compliance with Standards:
    • Pharmaceutical flanges can be designed to comply with industry standards and regulations, including cGMP (Current Good Manufacturing Practice) and FDA (Food and Drug Administration) requirements.
  12. Instrumentation Integration:
    • Flanges provide connection points for instruments, sensors, and other components, facilitating the integration of monitoring and control devices in pharmaceutical processes.
  13. Adaptability to Changing Process Conditions:
    • Flanges allow for easy modifications to the piping system to accommodate changes in process conditions or system layouts.
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