MS Pipes & Fittings
Mild Steel (MS) Pipe Flanges

Mild Steel (MS) Pipe Flanges are critical components used to connect pipes, valves, pumps, and other equipment to form a piping system. They provide easy access for cleaning, inspection, or modification. Unlike welded joints, flanged connections are semi-permanent and can be dismantled easily.
1. Primary Technical Standards
MS flanges are manufactured according to various international and national standards depending on the pressure and application:
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ASME/ANSI B16.5: The most common global standard for pipe flanges (1/2" to 24").
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BS 10: British standard (Table D, E, F, H) widely used in older Indian plumbing systems.
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IS 6392: The Indian standard for steel pipe flanges.
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DIN Standards: German standards (e.g., DIN 2576, DIN 2527) common in European machinery.
2. Common Types of MS Flanges
Type | Technical Description | Best For |
|---|---|---|
Slip-On (SORF) | Slides over the pipe and is welded both inside and out. | Low-pressure, easy alignment. |
Blind (BLRF) | A solid disc used to seal the end of a pipeline. | Inspection ports or future expansions. |
Weld Neck (WNRF) | Features a long tapered hub that is butt-welded to the pipe. | High-pressure and extreme temperatures. |
Socket Weld (SWRF) | Pipe is inserted into a socket before welding. | Small diameter, high-pressure lines. |
Lap Joint | Used with a stub end; the flange can rotate freely. | Systems requiring frequent dismantling. |
Threaded | Screwed onto the pipe without welding. | Low pressure; areas where welding is hazardous. |
3. Pressure Ratings (Class)
Under the ASME B16.5 standard, flanges are categorized by their ability to handle pressure at specific temperatures:
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Class 150: Standard utility (Water/Air).
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Class 300: Medium industrial.
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Class 600, 900, 1500, 2500: High-pressure oil, gas, and steam applications.
4. Dimensional Data (Reference: ASME B16.5 Class 150)
Nominal Pipe Size (NB) | Outside Diameter (mm) | Thickness (mm) | No of Bolt Holes | Bolt Circle Dia (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1/2" (15mm) | 90 | 11.2 | 4 | 60.3 |
1" (25mm) | 110 | 14.3 | 4 | 79.4 |
2" (50mm) | 150 | 19.1 | 4 | 120.7 |
4" (100mm) | 230 | 23.9 | 8 | 190.5 |
6" (150mm) | 280 | 25.4 | 8 | 241.3 |
5. Flange Facing Types
The "Face" determines the gasket surface and the seal quality:
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Flat Face (FF): Used when the mating flange is cast iron (prevents cracking).
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Raised Face (RF): The most common; concentrates more pressure on a smaller gasket area.
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Ring Type Joint (RTJ): A groove is cut for a metal ring gasket; used for very high pressures.
6. Material & Finish
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Material Grade: Commonly ASTM A105 (Forged Carbon Steel) or IS 2062 Gr. B (Mild Steel Plate).
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Surface Coating: * Black: Self-color/Anti-rust oil.
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Galvanized: Hot-dip zinc coating to prevent corrosion.
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Yellow/Blue Primer: For temporary protection during transit.
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