BLIND FLANGE APPLICATIONS
A blind flange can be used when constructing a pipework system for expansion, to allow the pipework to be bolted on once the expansion is complete. By simply adding it to the end flange, this design allows the pipeline to be extended or continued. The operations and maintenance team can use a blind flange to clean or inspect the pipework during a shutdown when used on a manifold in a dirty service.

Consider the removal process before installing a blind flange on a vessel manway. Once the bolts have been removed, it may be necessary to fit a crane eye or davit specifically designed to hold the flange in place. Care should be taken to ensure that the davit can support the full weight of the flange.

A blank flange is a solid disc used to close or stop a pipeline. The mounting holes are machined into the mating surface and the sealing rings are machined into the circumference, just like a conventional flange. A blank flange is different in that it doesn’t have an opening for fluid to pass through. To stop the flow of fluid through a pipeline, the blank flange can be installed between two open flanges.

When a repair is required further up the line, a blank flange is often inserted into the pipeline. This makes it safe to remove the flanges further downstream. This type of obstruction is often used when a new valve or pipe is connected to an old pipe. When a line is no longer needed, it can also be shut down with this type of plug. It would be difficult to maintain or repair a pipeline without the blind flange. The nearest valve would have to be closed, which could be miles away from the repair site. A blind flange can be used to seal a pipe at a much lower cost.