What components make up a flanged joint?

A flanged joint is designed to create a strong, leak-proof connection between two sections of pipe or other equipment. The primary components that constitute a flanged joint are flanges and gaskets.

Flanges are flat pieces that are typically welded or screwed onto the ends of pipes, which allows them to attach to another similar flange. This setup aids in the alignment and stability of the connection. The gasket, which fits between the two flanges, plays a critical role in ensuring the joint is sealed properly. Gaskets can be made from various materials, depending on the type of fluid being carried and the temperature and pressure conditions of the piping system.

The combination of flanges and gaskets allows for the creation of a reliable seal that prevents leaks, while also allowing for some flexibility for expansion and contraction due to temperature changes. This is why flanges and gaskets are considered essential components of a flanged joint.

While bolts are also involved in holding the flanges together, they are not part of the actual joint itself; they serve as a securing device rather than a structural component of the joint. Pipes and fittings, although essential in a plumbing context, do not specifically define a flanged joint, as they do not encompass the sealing mechanism provided