Flat Side
Flat side Flange is a component of a complete SAE Flange set. The flat side comes with a UNC or Metric thread used for connection with hydraulic applications. The flat side is made following the SAE J518/ISO 6162 standards and mostly used for applications made of Carbon Steel or Stainless Steel. Flat side flanges are made to reduce the risk of breakages in flanges and they are applied to high pressure and temperature equipment.
1. What is Flat Side ?
SAE Flanges are one of the most common applications in hydraulic systems. They are used to aid connection in various devices. SAE Flanges are designed following the J518/ISO 6162 standards. SAE Flanges are designed in different components which are attached together to form the connection and are available in two pressure classes.
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The complete set of an SAE Flange comes with an o-ring side flange and a flat side flange. These two side flanges are connected to connect a flat surface with the o-ring used to hold the other part.
The flat side is designed with the Unified Thread Standard (UNC) or metric thread. These connection types are common in Europe. The flat side flange is made following ISO 6162 standards. Flat sides SAE Flanges are commonly applied in high pressure and high/low-temperature equipment.
2. Differences between Flat Side and O-ring Side?
SAE Flanges come in different types, such as raised face flange, etc. The flat side and o-ring side are types that make up the complete setup of the flange. However, these flanges are designed to fit into each other to form a perfect and tight seal connection. Although the flat and o-ring side works together to form the connection, there are certain differences to distinguish them.
The major difference between the flat and o-ring sides is the surface area design. The flat side flange has a smooth surface beyond the normal flange face, while the o-ring side flange has a depressed area. These surfaces are designed in a way that will enable the perfect mating of the flanges. Both the flat side and o-ring side of the SAE Flange have smooth finishing.
3. How can you protect Flat Side Flange?
Flanges generally have high damage risks when not properly protected. Flat Side Flange damage can be in either mechanical or chemical form or accumulation of particles into the inner parts. Mechanical damage occurs through exposure to physical force which can be during transportation and other methods. This damage can lead to leakages after the connection. Chemical damage happens when oxides and metals react with oxygen leading to corrosion, and flanges can also accumulate. Failure to clear out this dirt leads to clogging or blockage of passage fluids.
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A flat side flange can be protected using a flange protector. The flange protector is a device designed to secure the flanges from the damage of any sort during operation. This in turn elongates the lifespan of the flange. Also, proper storage of the flange can increase the rate of protection of the device against damages.