Flange Thickness
The flange thickness is the measurement of the outer rim of a flange. SAE Flanges are designed in various sizes and with different materials. In determining the right SAE Flange to be used in a connection, there are several factors to consider such as SAE Flange size, inner and outer diameter (ID & OD), pitch circle diameter (PCD), flange thickness, and so on.
​
All these values will determine the type of flange to be used for the hydraulic application. SAE Flanges play an important role in mechanical machines and are widely used across various fields. SAE Flange thickness is important especially for weld-on connection and it can be calculated with a formula.
1. How do you measure SAE Flange Thickness ?
*** OD: Outer Diameter
SAE Flanges are connecting tools used in the hydraulic industry for connection purposes. Flanges are used to connect pipes, hoses, tubes, and other devices to each other. There are different types of flanges, also, they are available in various sizes. Further, the various types are applied in different systems based on their design. As SAE Flanges are available in different sizes, they vary in thickness as well. They are labeled in schedule thickness. The most common thicknesses are schedule 40 (SCH40), schedule 80 (SCH80), schedule 160 (SCH160) and schedule double extra strong (SCH XXS).
For the perfect connection of the SAE flanges to other parts, one of the most important factors to check is the measurement of the flange outer diameter and its thickness. While this sounds so simple, it also needs a basic understanding of the pressure ratings in flanges.
Please refer to the steps explained below for an in-depth understanding of the measurement of SAE Flanges:
​
-
The first step to take is the measurement of the outer diameter (OD). This can be done by measuring the outside edge from one end to the other. Thereafter, you can measure the inner diameter.
-
Then, measure the thickness of the SAE Flange using the outer rim alone. To do this, there are several methods to use. The first method to calculate flange thickness is through the standard dimension tables.
-
The formula for calculation is stated below:
Thickness (t) = (Outer Diameter - Inner Diameter)/2
The table below shows some of the SAE Flange outer diameter and inner diameter:
*** ID: Inner Diameter
2. How can you choose SAE Flange thickness in the installation?
Generally, SAE Flange dimensions including flange thickness are easy to determine because most of the flanges are designed for welding on or butt weld connection with the piping line. Piping is an important component to determine the SAE Flange standard as both are connected. Many countries have certain bodies guiding their production, for example, ASME standards thrive in the United States, DIN is for the German community, and many more.
Sometimes, however, the flanges fail to meet certain criteria given by the standards. There are other alternative factors such as using the raw material SAE Flange body to machine according to dimension requirement. You need to note that the SAE Flange body can be different from the size connection.
​
More so, you have to consider the weight and pressure of the hydraulic application intended for the SAE Flange. When the application requires high pressure, the clamping pressure of the flange needs to be fully maximized.
3. How can a wrong SAE Flange thickness affect the installation?
The importance of flange thickness in an installation cannot be overemphasized. SAE Flanges are important components in a pipe installation. They are designed to add strength and durability to the other parts of the system. The thickness of the SAE Flange gives the flange the ability to give the installation proper functionality.
​
In the case where the SAE Flange thickness is wrong and does not match the system, the installation is subjected to the risk of leakage or malfunctioning. This could further affect the whole system application by causing a total breakdown of the application.
4. Can you customize the SAE Flange thickness when needed?
Sometimes, you may need to customize the thickness of the SAE Flange based on the application either due to unavailability or scarceness of the needed thickness. Yes, companies specialize in customizing flanges if requested. Also, some SAE Flange thickness is not available for sale except on request. You must use the right SAE Flange thickness for the intended application to avoid problems explained in the above subsection. So, if you need customized flange thickness, simply request from the producer.