industrial equipment

Metals for flanges and fittings: the image shows steel flanges, in an article on metals used for flanges and fittings.

Metals for flanges and fittings: the most commonly used

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Flanges and fittings are among the most widely used connecting elements in the piping network of a complex industrial system.

However, what are the metals most commonly used in their processing?

Let’s find out together in this article.

FLANGES AND FITTINGS: METALS TO CHOOSE AND PROCESS

The basis of the production of flanges and fittings is always the choice of a particular metal selected for certain characteristics and its subsequent processing.

For fittings, the machining methods are the same as those already seen with the manufacture of flanges:

  • investment casting
  • welding

We have already seen how, between the two methods, that of welding is preferable, succeeding in preserving certain characteristics of metal integrity.

With regard to hydraulics, the machining of flanges is done based on the pressure rating.

Metals for flanges and fittings: standards and machining

Regarding the machining of fittings, reference is made to a very complicated standard that we could basically summarise as follows.

  • BW fittings: ASME B16.9; ASME B16.25; DIN 2605; DIN 2615; DIN 2616; DN 2617; MSS-SP 25; MSS-SP 75; AFNOR NFA49-281; ISO 5251
  • Forged fittings: made of forged steel (carbon and stainless steel) according to ASTM/AMS-MSS SP44 international standards and with reference to ANSI B16, 11, B36, 10, BS 3799, MSS-SP83.
  • Compression fittings: carbon and stainless steel ogive fittings for high pressure, with reference to DIN 2353 standards from D. 6mm to D. 28mm

As for flanges, the main standards to be followed are.

  • ASME B16.5/16.36/16.47;
  • UNI
  • DIN
  • BD
  • EN 1092

What is certain is that for flanges and fittings, given the wide range of uses, it is necessary to make a judicious selection of metal, based on specific characteristics.

But how does this selection take place? Aren’t you curious to know?

METALS FOR FLANGES AND FITTINGS

Although the field of flange and fitting processing has undergone major changes – especially the contribution of new technologies – one thing has not changed at all: the processing material used.

Metals continue to be used to make finished products.

Yes, this has not changed: since the first industrial revolution and even since the Iron Age, when various metals were used in the production of tools and weapons for hunting.

If we try to think of a metal, we can only imagine it as a processed product, ignoring all the selection and optimization aspects that lead to the definition of that product.

The use of metals, however, remains preponderant.

However, how to choose the most suitable one?

The choice of metals for flanges and fittings is based on a few criteria

There are many characteristics that need to be evaluated in selecting the most suitable metal for flanges and fittings.

The choice of one or the other metal responds not only to the peculiar characteristics of the metal itself, but mainly starts from the final product.

Specifically on how this should be machined and sometimes notched.

The most important characteristics are as follows:

  • Malleability: for a metal to be considered malleable it must retain intact structural characteristics in the face of excessive force or pressure. In essence, it must not exhibit fracture or physical transformation. This is something to consider when the flange or fitting is intended for very harsh environments.
  • Hardness: this refers to the ability of the metal not to deform as a result of strong pressure applied.
  • Electrical conductivity: this refers to the metal’s ability to conduct electricity.

Given this, we come to evaluate the most suitable metals for machining flanges and fittings.

METALS FOR FLANGES AND FITTINGS: STAINLESS STEEL

One of the most widely used not only in the manufacture of flanges and fittings, but throughout the world of industrial equipment.

The name stainless is due to the property, not found in other types of steel, of not rusting when it comes into contact with oxygen.

This characteristic is mainly due to the nature of its alloy, which consists of iron and chromium.

Through a chemical process called passivation, chromium draws a very thin oxide coating, which resists oxidation.

This property was discovered by Harry Brearly from Sheffield, England, while he was experimenting with new steels for firearms.

Coming to the characteristics, this metal has a high resistance to corrosion, especially in contact with fresh water and moist air.

The metal has the shortcoming of notwithsta nding scratches and extreme conditions, especially when prolonged over time.

VARIOUS TYPES OF STAINLESS STEEL

There are several varieties of stainless steel, more than 100 different grades; and these are classified into five main types.

  • Austenic: This is definitely the most widely used, given its resistance to heat and high temperatures. Used widely for household purposes, shipbuilding, architectural construction and industrial piping. The main types are 304/304L/304H, 316/316. L/316H/316T/A182/F321/312H/321H/A182/F347/A182/F347/A182 F44/A182 F904 L/F310S
  • Ferritic: has properties very similar to mild steel, but with better resistance to corrosion and cracking. It is ideal for boilers, indoor architecture, and washing machines. Some examples: AISI 409, 430m 444.
  • Martensitic: Very strong and durable type of stainless. Although not as corrosion-resistant as its austenitic counterpart, it is perfect for products such as turbine blades and knives (AISI 400 group)
  • Duplex: Composite of ferritic and austenitic steel. Excellent for those who need a metal that is both flexible and durable. It is the most common metal for those working within the paper, shipbuilding and pulp industries because of its wide range of properties. Example: UNS S32202;
  • Semi-austenic steel: also called precipitation hardening, it is exceptionally strong because it has the alloying elements aluminium, niobium and copper added in fusion with it.

Metals for flanges and fittings: carbon steel

Carbon steel is denoted by the symbol CS (carbon steel).

It occurs as an alloy with carbon percentages not exceeding 2.1%.

Above this percentage, the properties of the metal are not the same.

It is currently the most widely used metal: used both in everyday tools and in complex elements of precision mechanics.

It comes across as very easy to machine, reliable and cost-effective.

They are classified on the basis of several criteria.

The most common one, however, relates to the percentage of carbon:

  • Low carbon content: up to 0.3 percent;
  • Medium content: between o.3 and 0.6 percent;
  • High-content: above 0.6 percent,

Main alloys:

  • A-105 B- 350 LF2, for flanges and flanged fittings;
  • WPB,WPL6,WP11, for bw fittings.

Metals for flanges and fittings: The image shows some carbon steel fittings, in an article on the most used metals for flanges and fittings.

Metals for flanges and fittings: cast iron

This metal is also used in the production of flanges and fittings; however, it is often debased and downgraded.

A fact mainly due to its low quality and difficult workability compared to common iron.

It has a higher specific gravity and also has high electrical conductivity.

Metals for flanges and fitting: bronze

The most common alloy is the one composed of copper and tin; but there are others made from metals such as beryllium, aluminium, and nickel.

The classic alloy -B 14-, however, turns out to be more widely used in machining.

Used obviously for flanges and fittings; but also for bushings, bushings and any other mechanical component that needs it.

Compared to steel, it comes across as less durable; but it boasts a higher resistance to corrosion, especially when it comes to seawater.

It also stands out as the most reliable conductor of heat and electricity.

Metals for flanges and fittings: copper

Copper has the characteristic of being perpetually recycled, keeping its characteristics intact.

It oxidises very slowly and offers itself as particularly malleable.

With its excellent conductivity, it is one of the most widely used metals for pipes and electrical cables.

Metals for flanges and fittings: brass

Composed of an alloy of copper and zinc, it comes in a bright, golden colour.

Compared to bronze, it shows itself to be cheaper, but more difficult to work with.

As far as pipe joining is concerned, it is easily used for machining screws and bolts.

Having antibacterial properties, it is also among the most recommended metals for frequent fixings and remodelling, and also for creating door and flap handles.

PANTALONE’S FLANGES AND FITTINGS

Now that we have taken a closer look at the most commonly used materials for flanges and fittings, how would you like to take a look at our catalogue?

The Ukrainian crisis is causing enormous difficulties in procurement and with the increase in raw material prices, which is why we at Pantalone are doing long-term planning to increase our warehouse inventories, this way we remain competitive in the market and with a large stock of materials.

We handle two product lines for both stainless steel and carbon steel, we can supply products of European origin or non-European origin from stock.

Contact us for a quote and put us to the test.

 

Visit our website to find out more

The image shows many types of fittings

Types of fittings: how many are there?

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Even those new to the world of industrial equipment know that there are different types of fittings.

But what exactly are we referring to by this term?

Very trivially, fittings could be defined as joining and connecting elements between pipes.

Their uses are diverse, ranging from a wide variety of industrial fields – automotive, plant engineering, plumbing – to more common, domestic uses.

They are also known by other definitions: couplings, joints or, in a more basic way, connections.

Depending on their use and practicality, we can identify different types.

Let’s look at them together.

MANY TYPES OF FITTINGS

Why so many types of fittings?

As we were saying, the uses we can make of these connecting elements are varied; different types come from multiple applications.

In this article we will look at the most common ones, in a very general way.

Don’t worry: we will try not to bore you too much with the technical details 😉.

Instantaneous fitting

Instant fittings, also called quick-connect fittings, are those that provide a high guarantee and stability in terms of connection.

From a practical point of view, they certainly represent a great convenience.

They are designed in cases where frequent assembly and disassembly work is required: this is without even considering the use of tools.

There are many sub-types of instant fittings; but let’s go slowly.

Where one opts for this type of fitting, it is indeed possible to choose between interlocking, pressed (crimped) and threaded fittings.

A further classification can be made on the basis of their tightness.

A seal that can be of different types:

  • Washer-shaped. Used mainly for polymer pipes. Very convenient since, once the threaded or welded pipe is inserted into the fitting, it can be released by simply pressing a button.
  • Clamp-style. A rather stable and rigid type of seal, used mainly with grooved metal pipes, and perfect for harsh and difficult environments where high pressures are involved.
  • Inverted clamp. They provide a double seal and, again, show particular strength in harsh environments with very rigid pressures.

Since this type of fitting shows itself to be particularly onerous, it would be preferable to employ it in cases where it is really needed: where it is necessary to assemble and disassemble with some ductility.

Otherwise, a screwed fitting would be recommended.

The threaded fitting

This type of fitting also proves to be extremely practical and fast in assembly and disassembly work.

Of course there are more precautions and conditions to be observed.

These are fittings whose connection is ensured by a non-permanent screwing operation.

Since a wrench is required during disassembly, it would be advisable to employ this fitting when maintenance work is occasional.

When opting for a threaded fitting, care should be taken to ensure that it exhibits compatibility with the existing thread.

The most common thread is the right-handed, clockwise thread; but there is the left-handed thread, which is instead used in gas cylinders or in those cases where there is a risk that the right-handed thread may loosen.

Important in order to have an idea of what the standard designations of the various threads are:

  • SO metric threads;
  • UN American thread;
  • NPT American thread
  • BSP thread.

The image shows many types of fittings and pipes.

Weld and crimp fittings

From an economic point of view, having no special sealing systems and mechanical elements, weld fittings are definitely the most advantageous.

They are used mainly in permanent installations, which do not require frequent assembly and disassembly.

They exhibit special wear resistance; however, their installation is not the easiest one and always requires the intervention of an experienced hand.

Symmetrical Guillemin fittings

Their use is quite wide.

They are used in the chemical, food and petrochemical industries; but also in agriculture and transportation.

They generally consist of two symmetrical elements connected by a rotation mechanism.

Assembly is accomplished by employing multiple techniques: welding, male and female threading, and cotter pin

MANY ELEMENTS TO CONSIDER WHEN CHOOSING THE RIGHT TYPE OF FITTING

These are the general types, but the classifications we could make, considering one element rather than another, are many.

In any case, when choosing the most appropriate fitting for our needs, the aspects to consider are these.

  • Environmental conditions: in addition to the practicality of installation and assembly and disassembly steps, what should be carefully considered are environmental hazards. Ultraviolet exposure, freezing hazards, water, mud, shock, vibration.
  • Fluid characteristics: certainly the characteristics of the material to be transported through pipes should not be ignored. Temperature and pressure are important, as is flow rate.
  • Regulations: when choosing the system there are, of course, compliance rules to be followed, so as to always operate in accordance with the law.

Fitting material

The choice of fitting material should be in accordance with that of the pipe, and compatible with the type of material being transported.

In any case, the most commonly used materials are

  • stainless steel
  • steel
  • aluminum
  • brass/coppe
  • nickel-plated brass
  • polycarbonate
  • polymer

The shape of the fittings

The choice of pipe shape is mainly influenced by the physical characteristics and angle of the pipes to be connected.

Depending on the shape, fittings can generally be:

  • Sleeve, which allows straight union between pipes registering the same diameter.
  • Elbow: allows different angles to be drawn between pipes. The most common are 27°, 45° and 90°
  • T-shaped: makes it possible to join three pipes of the same or different diameters.
  • Reducer: joins two pipes of different diameters, but the difference must be only one size. This expedient is used to reduce the flow rate of the fluid.
  • Y-fitting: also allows three pipes to be joined, but at a sharper angle than at the T-fitting.

PANTALONE’S PIPE FITTING PRODUCTS.

Now that we know more about the complicated world of pipe fittings, how about taking a look at the catalogue of Pantalone SRL Unipersonale?

A vast stock of pipes, flanges and pipe fittings products to make up for this severe downturn in the steel market and give your business a helping hand.

 

 

welding and brazing: The picture shows these two methods of metal processing.

Welding and brazing: differences and what they are about

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Ever heard of welding and brazing?

Several methods are used when it comes to working with metals.

In the previous article we looked at that of investment casting.

What do you think of finding out about soldering and brazing?

Are you ready?

WELDING AND BRAZING: WHAT THEY CONSIST OF

Let’s start by saying the most important thing.

What specifically do these two operations fulfill?

In the field of metalworking, they are methods used to find continuity between two materials, effectively making a permanent union.

Not only the field of industrial equipment

It should be noted that these two techniques find wide application not only in the field of industrial equipment.

Let’s keep in mind that this procedure is also widely used in the field of electrical engineering.

And that’s not all!

Even those engaged in the field of service and repair of electronic equipment have a soldering iron in their toolbox.

Obviously, these are different soldering methods – soft soldering – from those used for industrial equipment, but the principle remains the same: to join materials, ensuring their continuity.

In this article we will deal with welding and brazing that most closely concern Pantalone: industrial equipment such as flanges and fittings.

Welding and brazing operations carried out in environments such as factories and construction sites.

How long have welding and brazing been around?

Man’s need to join materials into a coherent structure goes back a long way.

After all, the progress of civilization is based on technology: on practical skill and new methods capable of refining this ability.

Certainly, the joining and casting of metals is one of those things capable of taking human history forward a few steps.

A skill that has developed in small steps; but not too many either.

In 5000 B.C., metals such as gold, copper and silver were being joined together to make jewelry and objects of worship.

The use of tin as a soldering material gave a strong impetus to the evolution of metal joining operations.

In ancient Rome, the entire network of aqueducts was created through the joining of lead pipes; while, as for the working of baths, these were created through the soldering of bronze sheets.

Increasingly sophisticated welding and brazing

Throughout history, soldering and brazing operations have become embellished with increasingly sophisticated techniques, until they have found success in even the most unthinkable fields, such as electrical engineering.

It is estimated that without sophisticated soldering technologies, the mass market for electronic boards would not have the numbers we see today.

But the field of fittings, metals, and industrial equipment would be equally affected.

ESSENTIAL TERMINOLOGY FOR SOLDERING AND BRAZING OPERATIONS

With the understanding that the terms welding and brazing refer to joining operations between metals, it is necessary to mention what is the essential technical terminology for navigating this subject.

Without certain terms it is difficult not only to understand how these operations are carried out; but even the fundamental difference between them.

When performing welding and brazing operations, there are two basic elements to consider.

welding and brazing: The image shows the assembly line of a steel industry.

Basic materia

Material consisting of the parts to be welded.

It can be of two types:

  • Homogeneous: if the metal material is the same for both parts;
  • Heterogeneous: if the materials are different in nature.

If you are wondering which metals are most commonly used for these operations, let us answer immediately with steel, aluminum alloys, nickel and titanium.

Some polymeric materials can be used for welding; but only thermoplastic ones.

Needless to say, when welding, the first thing to ask is whether the base material lends itself to the creation of a stable and solid structure.

Some technical characteristics of the metal such as specific power and welding speed must then be considered.

Filler material

This is the material introduced between the parts to be joined.

This comes in the guise of strips, wires and rods and is deposited in a molten state between the materials to be joined.

The molten material presents itself as particularly pure: the impurities found during evaluation, therefore, are to be attributed to the base material.

It should be noted that filler material is not always used in these operations.

DIFFERENCES BETWEEN BRAZING AND SOLDERING

The differences between welding and brazing are based on the different techniques used on the base material and the filler material.

  • Welding: in this process the filler material is not always used. Fusion is localized; limited to the parts that would be joined.
  • Brazing, or braze welding: The base material is not melted, but welded. Fusion occurs with the filler material, having a lower melting temperature than the base material.

Which of the two techniques gives a better yield?

Difficult to answer, since both techniques possess their own specificity, and are not applicable in every context.

Broadly speaking, we can say that brazing offers greater stability than welding; however, the brazing operation is much more complex.

It requires the right equipment and protective devices.

It should be added, then, that not all materials are able to withstand such high temperatures.

WELDING: A COMPLICATED WORLD

Welding is a very complicated universe.

Various techniques have been refined over time: modulated according to new technologies and according to the material adopted.

To make a specific classification is a complex matter and would require a lot of space.

Here, it cannot be done in any other way than at the macroscopic level.

Distinction based on technologies

There are many technologies used in welding processes.

These technological systems have been implemented in industry: especially in the field of heavy metal processing.

The distinction is made according to the technology used to produce heat and thus melt the designated material.

  • Arc welding: This is based on an electric arc drawn by two electrodes. The electrode can be fusible and non-fusible – in the former case it provides the filler material during fusion, in the latter the filler material is added separately – and enjoy either a direct or alternating current supply.
  • Resistance welding method: In this case there is no use of filler material. Welding is done by passing electrical energy into the area to be joined, due to the resistance generated.
  • Oxyacetylene welding: a flame that comes from the combustion of acetylene and oxygen is used as the heat source.
  • Concentrated energy welding method: this is welding that relies on very sophisticated and localized heat generation technologies, with powers ranging from a few thousand to several million watts. We are talking about laser ((LBW), plasma (PAW) and electric beam (EBW) welding.

welding and brazing: The image shows a steel industry operator working with the welding method.

Distinguishing operator-side welding processes

Various technological processes assign different weight to the operator than was once the case.

Based on this, a second classification can be made from the role played by the operator in the context of new welding technologies.

What was once manual has been completely replaced by machines; however the skill of the operator, including in consistently conducting machine operations, remains essential.

Considering this, we can distinguish the following types of welding.

  • Manual welding: in this case, the responsibility lies mainly with the operator in operating and modulating the electrode or heat source. This is especially true for coated electrode or oxyacetylene welding.
  • Automated welding: electrodes and heat sources are automatically adjusted by a device, measuring the correct distance from the workpiece and moving them along the welding line. This is the case with submerged arc and concentrated energy welding.
  • Semi-automatic welding processes: this is a mixed process, where automatic processes of electrode feeding and constant parameter maintenance are assisted by an operator, who guides the electrode with respect to the welding lines.
  • Robotic welding: a fully automatic process. The steps of the welding operation are assigned to a robot and advanced technology systems. Industrial robots are mainly used in electric arc welding under gas protection and laser welding. Widely used in the field of automobile manufacturing, especially in the final stages of body assembly.

WELDING AND BRAZING: OPERATOR SAFETY

A mention should be made of the protective equipment that operators should adopt.

Welding and brazing are very dangerous operations if not carried out with the utmost care.

Very high melting temperatures necessitate the protection of heat-resistant clothing.

Some welding methods, for example arc welding, involve the production of electromagnetic radiation that is harmful to the eyes.

It is therefore necessary to cover the eyes by wearing an obscured mask.

For metal dusts and vapors, generated in both welding and brazing, appropriate ventilation and aeration systems are required.

Result evaluations

Then there are various tests and evaluation systems to measure the result obtained from welding processes.

There are nondestructive tests and some more invasive ones.

The first necessary evaluation is certainly the inspection that takes place under the eye of an expert: distortions and any geometric anomalies with respect to the design are identified.

This is followed by volumetric inspections and assessments with liquid penetrants.

Effective are all those procedures capable of detecting the purity of the metal composition: such as 100% PMI, often used by Pantalone.

PANTALONE’S PRODUCTS

Now that we know more about brazing and soldering processes, how about taking a look at our items?

Our catalog boasts more than 50 thousand items including flanges, fittings, and piping, all obtained by certified processing methods such as those described.

The Ukrainian situation is causing serious difficulties for our industry: if you are a company in need of new material, we advise you to stock up abundantly.

We at Pantalone are always on the front line to ensure that customers have maximum availability.

Finally, for more interesting facts about the world of industrial equipment, keep following our blog.

 

Metal microfusion: what it is and what it is about?

Metal microcasting: what it is and what it is about

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Ever heard of metal microcasting?

In the world of industrial equipment – we have already seen it with flanges – the processing method is a very important aspect, on which the whole quality of the product is based.

Therefore, investment casting – also called lost-wax casting – is one of the most widely used techniques in the field of metalworking.

But do we really know how it works

METAL MICROCASTING: PRECISION DERIVED FROM CASTING

Microcasting makes it possible to achieve precision in the metal forging process.

This is because it employs casting techniques that take advantage of the properties of certain molds where wax is cast, which are subsequently covered with a ceramic shell.

The shell allows it to withstand the high temperatures that occur in the steel casting process.

The use of the molds makes it possible not only to tolerate the creation of models with small dimensions; but to create shapes with very precise and complex shapes, with the presence of minute reliefs, hollows and very meticulous finishes.

Although when we speak about investment casting we are essentially referring to an industrialized and automated process, there are, however, some manual steps.

The same ones that enable such high standards of precision and forging.

Metal investment casting: lost wax

If we say lost-wax casting, it is because the wax that is lost during processing is collected so that it can be reused in subsequent investment castings.

The molds are shaped following rigid and very precise steps, which are in turn broken down into more minute steps.

Shall we see them together?

It is precisely these steps that are the secret of such clean and meticulous workmanship.

Metal microfusion: the process.

First phase metal investment casting: wax cluster

The preparatory step to the whole metal investment casting process.

Without paying special attention to it, the molds may not meet those particular standards of precision that characterize investment casting.

Needless to say, the casts must perfectly reproduce the characteristics of the product to which they serve as a mold.

For this to happen perfectly, these steps must be respected.

  • The wax must be inserted into the molds by injection. In this way, it will repeat the exact shape of the object to be reproduced.
  • The small molds should be assembled following a particular treeing, so as to draw a cluster. The treeing is also made of wax: in order for the pieces to weld together to form the cluster, they will undergo a mild casting process.

Second stage of metal investment casting: creation of ceramic shell

Here we come to the creation of the famous ceramic shell.

Ceramic boasts the property of resisting the melting temperature of metals; but in order for this to be in fact so durable, some steps need to be taken.

Having assembled the wax cluster, it must be subjected to several sessions of ceramic baths so as to create a durable ceramic shell.

Dipping and subsequent drying are repeated several times, until it reaches the required thickness.

Once the ceramic shell is perfectly planed, it can be introduced into the kiln at a temperature of 1200-1300°. Before getting there, however, it must be subjected to a lower temperature, so as to melt the wax and reuse it in subsequent processes.

Third stage investment casting process: molten metal on the molds

With the molds ready, we move on to the actual metalworking process.

The metal is poured into the molds and extracted by breaking the ceramic shell.

Again, of course, some care is required.

  • The molten metal should be poured immediately after the mold is pulled out. In this way, the heat shock will be low and the cooling curve will be controllable and moderate.
  • Once the metal is solidified, shell cracking is carried out. This is done through the use of special techniques and machinery: flexible cutting or flame cutting.

Fourth stage: checks and possible improvements

As precise as the molds are, however, the investment casting process is not enough to give such a neat and precise appearance to the product if it is limited to simply extracting the metal from the ceramic shell.

Therefore, some controls will be needed for finishing and ascertaining standards.

  • The product extracted from the molds undergoes cleaning, dimensional grinding, polishing and CNC machining.
  • Chemical examination of the metal composition and final packaging and shipping examination is carried out.
  • Once the controls are passed, the product is ready for shipment.

Remember that the investment casting process tolerates all kinds of dimensional standards: products starting from a few grams in weight to over 150 kilograms.

ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF INVESTMENT CASTING MACHINING

In terms of precision and finish, the advantages of investment casting machining of metals are undoubted; however, there are some problems related to texture and compactness characteristics, which are not preserved with this machining method.

There is another machining method that, while less precise, keeps these properties intact and that is the hand welding process.

Pantalone’s products

We have briefed you on one of the most widely used machining processes in the field of industrial equipment.

Would you like, now, to take a look at the product catalog of Pantalone SRL?

A vast stock of flanges, pipes and fittings products that have distinguished our business reality.

47-convegno-nazionale-Animp-1024x457-1024x585

Pantalone SRL: participation in the 47th Animp National Conference

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With great enthusiasm, Pantalone SRL announces its participation in the Animp National Conference: one of the most important meetings in the world of plant engineering and industrial equipment.

The Animp is the national association of industrial plant engineering.

It’s an organisation that organises events, conventions, meetings, training and comparison opportunities in a constantly evolving sector.

ANIMP NATIONAL CONFERENCE: THE EVENT

The Animp National Confecence will be held on 16th June at the Auditorium Testori in the Palazzo Lombardia in Milan.

It will be a great ground for discussion with leading figures from institutional, academic and entrepreneurial realities.

The theme of the conference?

The debate on the energy transition and its impact in the industrial sector.

It will be a 360° confrontation that is the main objective of the Animp association: always committed to the connection between companies and experts in technology and entrepreneurship.

Having been a member of the association for some time, as well as a guest, Pantalone SRL will participate this year as Gold Sponsor, gaining visibility at an event that ranks among the most important in the sector.

An editorial article for Pantalone SRL

The Animp association is also editor of several important publications concerning the plant engineering sector.

Animp’s main manifesto is the magazine Impiantistica italiana: one of the most authoritative voices in the field of industrial machinery.

Published bimonthly, “Impiantistica italiana” has been telling the complicated story of this sector since 1988, narrating its projects, technological challenges and market prospects, giving voice to entrepreneurs and their enthusiasm.

In the May/June edition, space will also be given to Pantalone SRL, with an article illustrating its history, values, objectives and the whole path of growth and maturation undertaken by the company.

THE ANIMP NATIONAL CONFERENCE

The Animp National Conference is finally back in attendance, in its 47th edition, after a two-year suspension due to the pandemic emergency.

We can say it does so with great providentiality, considering the historical moment we are living through.

The Ukrainian crisis

The Ukrainian energy crisis requires a joint effort by companies and institutions to find viable alternatives to fossil fuels.

New systems capable of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and making us energy independent.

These energy strategies were being worked on before Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, due to now undeniable climate change, which requires revolutionary intervention in all domestic and international industries, with major transformations throughout the supply chain.

The Ukraine crisis has only made the need for this change more urgent.

We have reflected on these topics several times in our blog, and on 16th June, we will be able to do so surrounded by experts and other entrepreneurs.

In this meeting, we will identify possible economic and geopolitical scenarios arising from the Ukrainian situation.

By assessing the possible impact on the industrial chain, possible future strategies to combat the emergency will be discussed.

WATCHING THE ANIMP CONFERENCE LIVE STREAMED?

If you are interested in following the Animp National Conference, please contact Pantalone directly for the link to the live streaming on 16TH June.

In the company of industry experts, topics such as innovation, fossil fuels and more will be discussed.

Visit the Animp association website to find out more and keep following the Pantalone SRL blog for more interesting facts about the world of industrial equipment.

 

The image shows flanges, an important connecting element in the world of industrial equipment.

What are flanges?

, ,

Flanges are a very common connecting element in the world of industrial equipment.

They are used in many different areas, even in the everyday household pipe work.

We often hear about them, but except for those technical environments where they are produced, it is difficult to have an idea of how common they are as industrial elements and above all of how important they are.

Shall we find out together?

Flanges

Flanges are nothing more than a joining and welding element of several metal sections.

In simpler terms: rings that connect tubes.

The assembly space circumscribed by a flange along the pipe is called spool.

Flange manufacture

We tend to think that flange machining is something elementary, having a simple assembly function.

Nothing could be more wrong.

Just think how many metal elements need to be welded, think of the many uses in industry, in addition to domestic ducts assembled with these elements?

Can you get an idea of how many there are?

Types of processing

In general, we can distinguish two different machining techniques for forging it:

  • Microfusion: the classic method that consists in melting the metal and then casting it in special molds. The advantage is to obtain defined and regular surfaces;
  • Hot forging: in this case, the block of metal is brought to a temperature that is not so high as to promote fusion, but still sufficient to ensure a certain ductility and moldability through the use of a hydraulic press.

Which is the best process?

The question as to which of the two techniques is preferable in the machining of these elements arises spontaneously and compulsorily.

If you thought that the right answer would be investment casting, I’m afraid you will be disappointed.

It is true that hot forging gets you essentially less finished flanges, but the metal gains in structure and compactness., features that are not retained with investment casting.

With the latter it is easy to have inclusion problems, which can cause fluid leakage in a subsequent time and in the presence of high pressures.

Different flanges according to function

Each weld requires a particular flange and a specific metal.

The metal consists of an alloy that has specific characteristics with respect to the technological function of the flange.

Just think how many types of fluids can be transported.

Can you imagine the temperature, pressure and nature of these elements?

Gas, oil, water, steam: each of these materials will require a specific flange, forged and synthesized with the most suitable metal.

The image shows flanges, an important connecting element in the world of industrial equipment.

Standards and classification

Precisely on the basis of these characteristics, flanges are very strictly and rigorously standardized.

The classification considers their minimum pressure (i.e. how much pressure the flanges can safely withstand at room temperature).

There are conditions that subject flanges to a more peculiar classification, but in general the recurring classification consists of:

  • ANSI/ASME B16.5  and B16-47 much in use in the U.S., particularly in the petroleum industry:
  • EN 1514 EN 1092, used in the rest of the world.

Two classifications of flanges

The classification that is the reference of the Anglo-Saxon culture includes flanges and flanged fittings.

It takes into account aspects such as pressure and temperature, which are very important in the design phase.

It also considers materials, tolerances, marking, and everything else that is important for passing the conformity test.

On the other hand, EN 1514 and EN 1092 refer to the various types of flanges, specifying dimensions, tolerances and possible threads.

It also evaluates the materials and the necessary price marking.

Various types of flange

Generally speaking, we can distinguish six different models, whose design responds to the specific technological use for which they are intended.

Today, the different models allow the use of flanges at any temperature and in any environmental condition, in various and transversal sectors.

In order to distinguish them more specifically, we can divide the flanges into these categories:

  • slip-on or flat
  • welding neck
  • socket weld
  • lap-joint and swivel
  • threaded
  • blind
What metals?

The number of metal alloys from which flanges are made is huge.

Commonly, the flanges are made of steel but, more specifically, depending on the use and the material transported, we can distinguish the metal used in seven macro areas:

  • Carbon Steels
  • high strength steels
  • alloy steels
  • stainless steels
  • duplex/super duplex
  • super alloys
  • Copper Alloys
Pantalone flanges

Did you like this article about flanges?

The flanges market is the one that concerns us most closely and distinguishes our reality in the quality of the products proposed. 

We have a very large stock of flanges, both of European and non-European origin. 

Many flanges, suitable for any use, are made in the most varied steel alloys, from the smallest and most common diameters to large diameters. 

Visit our contact page to learn more.

Also, for other curiosities about the industrial equipment sector, keep following our blog.

 

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