Blind Flanges and MS Dummy Flanges: Essential for Piping Systems
Blind Flanges and MS Dummy Flanges: Essential for Piping Systems
Piping systems that are designed to transport fluids or other matter between two points often require Intermediate Operation Connections (IOC) to help with any systems changes, cleaning, or addition of flow components. Blind and MS dummy flanges provide vital support for these IOC needs, and are essential part of many piping systems, helping to hold and maintain the right pressure, aligning materials, and preventing any hazardous or unexpected material releases. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the types of blind, and MS dummy flanges, and the various uses of each.
The Types of Blind and MS Dummy Flanges
A blind flange is a sealing plate that is used in large-diameter piping systems, typically used to blind off the ends of a pipe or valve. Blind flanges can also be used for closing off a line, blocking portions of a piping system, and ensuring pressure integrity within the pipe. Blind flanges are typically manufactured from cast iron, though more modern designs involving specialty alloys are also used.
An MS dummy flange is an Intermediate Operation Connection (IOC) specifically designed to function within pressurized piping systems. These types of flanges provide stability and support to these systems whilst helping to maintain desired pressures, and can be used in place of valves, or where valves are not possible. MS dummy flanges are typically made of metal or a metal alloy, such as carbon steel, stainless steel, Aluminum, or Nickel alloy.
Uses of Blind and MS Dummy Flanges
Blind flanges finding uses in a wide variety of industrial settings, from providing system pressure containment to providing a secure fitting for other components, such as pipes, valves and joints on a pipe network. They are also often used for testing the pressure of a pipe system without needing to risk damage to components or the environment. Blind flanges are also essential components in pump systems, where they provide isolation and prevent reverse flow of liquids or gases.
MS dummy flanges provide useful additions to newer piping systems, allowing for the addition of valves, pumps, or other components during clean up, repair or installation work. Additionally, MS dummy flanges provide greater stability than standard flanges where higher pressures are present.
Conclusion
Blind and MS Dummy flanges serve an essential function in many piping systems, providing stability and containment whilst also helping to facilitate repairs, installations and system changes. Blind flanges are especially useful for holding and maintaining pressure within a system, whilst MS dummy flanges provide a more effective solution for sophisticated piping systems and higher pressures.