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Elbow vs Threaded Flanges – What’s the Difference

Elbow vs Threaded Flanges

Understanding the differences between elbow flange and threaded flange can be a challenge. While there are similarities between them, they have distinct uses and advantages. Knowing the difference between the two will help you make an informed decision when selecting the correct flange for your project. Let’s take a deeper look into an elbow and threaded flanges.

Elbow Flange

An elbow flange joins two pipes at angles other than 90 degrees or 180 degrees. Commonly referred to as a “welding neck” or “welded” flange, it features a neck extending from the hub to facilitate pipe welding to the flange body. Its primary benefit lies in its capacity to withstand elevated pressures, ensuring dependable performance across diverse applications.

Threaded Flanges

Threaded flanges are used to join two pieces of pipe together by threading one end into another. They are valued for their simplicity and cost-effectiveness, as they can be installed without welding and without the need for extra fittings. These connections are commonly used in low-pressure settings where temperature changes are not significant, offering a straightforward solution for pipe joining needs.

Difference Between Elbow and Threaded Flanges

Advantages of Elbow Flanges

  • Elbow flanges offer a strong connection by being welded securely onto the pipe, ensuring durability.
  • Elbow flanges ensure fluid or gas flows smoothly through the piping system by avoiding turbulence caused by threads.
  • Elbow flanges are designed to minimize the risk of leaks, offering reliable performance in piping systems.

Advantages of Threaded Flanges

  • Threaded flanges are easier to install than elbow flanges, as they do not require welding.
  • Threaded flanges can be disassembled and reused if necessary.
  • Threaded flanges have a lower profile than elbowflangesso.

Disadvantages of Elbow Flanges

There are a few disadvantages associated with elbow flanges, such as:

  • They can be more challenging to install than threaded flanges since welding is required.
  • They may provide a weaker connection than threaded flanges since welding can weaken the metal.
  • They can be more expensive than threaded flanges since welding is required.

Conclusion:

At first glance, it may seem like elbow, and threaded flanges do the same job; however, each type has its own unique features that make them suitable for different applications depending on your specific needs. Elbow flanges provide greater strength, while threaded connections offer easy installation with no extra fittings needed. Understanding these differences will help you make an informed decision when selecting the right flange type for your project.

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