Blind Flange

1. Product Overview

A blind flange is a round metal plate with bolt holes around the perimeter but a solid center. It is typically installed at the end of pipelines or on reserved nozzles of pressure vessels and fuel tanks to block fluid flow.

2. Standard Technical Specifications

3. Why Use Blind Flanges Instead of Welding Pipe Ends Shut?

In the fuel industry, flexibility is critical, and blind flanges offer superior benefits:

• Easy expansion: When extending pipelines or adding pumps, simply remove the bolts and replace the blind flange with a slip-on flange. Welding shut requires cutting and re-welding, which is time-consuming and hazardous in flammable environments.
• Maintenance access: Allows technicians to quickly access the inside of pipelines or tanks for cleaning and inspection.
• Pressure testing: Essential for isolating sections of piping during leak checks or hydrostatic pressure tests.

4. Key Features

• High pressure resistance: As a solid steel plate, blind flanges bear the highest pressure loads in flange systems.
• Absolute sealing: Combined with oil-resistant gaskets (NBR/Viton) and proper bolt torque, ensures zero leakage of fuel.
• Corrosion protection: Surfaces are often galvanized or epoxy-coated to resist corrosion from seawater or chemicals.

5. Practical Applications

• Pipeline ends: Blocking fuel inlet/outlet lines at terminals or depots.
• Manholes: Serving as covers for inspection openings on fuel tanks.
• Reserved equipment connections: Sealing positions intended for future installation of flow meters or valves.