SS400 Steel Flanges
SS400 Steel Flange is a flange made from SS400 steel, a widely used structural carbon steel grade under the Japanese standard JIS G3101. Known for its excellent weldability, strength, and ease of fabrication, SS400 is commonly used in various industries like construction, machinery manufacturing, and pipeline systems. SS400 steel flanges are designed for connecting pipes, valves, pumps, and other equipment to form a complete piping system, facilitating smooth flow, and maintaining the integrity of the system under pressure.
Key Features of SS400 Steel Flange:
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High Strength: SS400 steel offers a minimum tensile strength of 400 MPa (58,000 Psi) and a minimum yield strength of 245 MPa (36,000 Psi), making it suitable for structural and piping applications where strength is required.
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Excellent Weldability: The carbon composition of SS400 steel makes it easy to weld, allowing for seamless connections in complex piping systems without compromising the material's integrity.
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Good Fabricability: SS400 steel can be easily machined, cut, and formed into various shapes and sizes, making it a versatile material for manufacturing flanges and other components.
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Corrosion Resistance: While SS400 steel is not as corrosion-resistant as stainless steel, it can be treated with coatings such as galvanization, painting, or varnishing to improve its performance in corrosive environments.
Common Types of SS400 Steel Flanges:
- Weld Neck Flange: Ideal for high-pressure applications, the weld neck flange is welded directly to the pipe, ensuring strength and leak-proof performance.
- Slip-On Flange: This type is slipped over the pipe and then welded in place, making it easier to install, particularly in low-pressure systems.
- Blind Flange: Used to close off a pipeline, blind flanges are essential for systems where future expansion or maintenance might be required.
- Threaded Flange: Used in low-pressure applications, threaded flanges are screwed onto the pipe without requiring welding, allowing for quick installation and removal.
- Socket Weld Flange: Suitable for small-diameter, high-pressure systems, this flange is welded to the pipe after being inserted into the socket.
Applications:
- Structural Construction: SS400 steel flanges are often used in construction projects, such as building frameworks, bridges, and other structures, where the flanges play a role in connecting structural components.
- Pipeline Systems: SS400 steel flanges are used in various piping systems, including water, oil, gas, and industrial piping, where they help connect pipes and other equipment.
- Machinery Manufacturing: In the production of machinery, SS400 steel flanges are used to connect components, offering strength and durability for heavy-duty equipment.
- Shipbuilding: The durability and weldability of SS400 steel make it suitable for marine applications, such as shipbuilding and offshore platforms.
- General Engineering: SS400 steel flanges are also used in a wide range of general engineering applications where structural strength and reliable performance are necessary.
Mechanical Properties:
- Tensile Strength: 400-510 MPa (58,000-74,000 Psi)
- Yield Strength: 245 MPa (36,000 Psi)
- Elongation: 20%-23%, depending on the thickness
- Hardness: 160-210 HB, offering a good balance of strength and workability.
Advantages:
- Cost-Effective: SS400 steel flanges offer a cost-effective solution for structural and piping applications, providing excellent performance at a reasonable price point.
- Versatility: SS400 steel is highly versatile and can be used in a variety of applications, from construction to industrial piping systems, due to its strength, weldability, and formability.
- Easy to Fabricate: SS400 steel flanges can be easily fabricated into different shapes and sizes, making them customizable to suit specific project requirements.
Standards and Specifications:
- JIS G3101: The standard governing the chemical composition and mechanical properties of SS400 steel.
- ASME/ANSI B16.5: SS400 steel flanges are typically manufactured according to ASME/ANSI standards, ensuring compatibility with various piping systems.
- EN 1092: European flange standard that covers the dimensions and pressure ratings of SS400 steel flanges.
Surface Treatment:
To enhance corrosion resistance and extend the lifespan of SS400 steel flanges, surface treatments are often applied, such as:
- Galvanization: Coating the flange with a layer of zinc to protect against rust and corrosion.
- Painting or Coating: Applying specialized paint or coatings to protect the steel from environmental factors and chemical exposure.
- Varnishing: A clear protective layer that helps to prevent corrosion while maintaining the natural finish of the steel.
Sizes and Availability:
SS400 steel flanges are available in a wide range of sizes, typically from ½ inch to 60 inches, with pressure ratings from 150# to 2500#. They can be customized in terms of thickness, hole dimensions, and face types (such as raised face or flat face) to meet specific industrial requirements.
Maintenance:
- Regular Inspection: Although SS400 steel is durable, regular inspection is recommended to check for signs of wear, corrosion, or damage, particularly in systems exposed to harsh environments.
- Surface Treatment Care: Protective coatings such as galvanization or paint may need reapplication over time to maintain the flange’s corrosion resistance.
SS400 Steel Flanges are a reliable and cost-effective solution for structural and piping systems that require strong, weldable, and durable components. With the ability to customize their size, shape, and surface treatment, they are widely used across multiple industries, ensuring long-lasting performance under a variety of conditions.