Flanges are essential components in piping systems, enabling secure connections between pipes, valves, pumps, and other equipment while maintaining a leak-free seal. Various industries and regions adhere to specific standards for flange design, dimensions, materials, and pressure ratings. One of the most widely recognized standards globally is ASME B16.5, which governs pipe flanges and flanged fittings for sizes up to NPS 24 (Nominal Pipe Size).
However, ASME B16.5 is not the only flange standard used in the industry. This article compares ASME B16.5 flanges with other major standards, including ASME B16.47, API, DIN, EN 1092-1, JIS, and MSS SP-44, highlighting their similarities, differences, and ideal applications.
Sunjin Metals Vina (SJM Vina), is a trusted supplier of high-quality steel pipes, flanges, and fittings sourced from South Korea and other countries, fully compliant with international standards.
Overview of ASME B16.5
ASME B16.5 is an American standard issued by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) that covers:
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Flanges and flanged fittings from NPS 1/2″ to NPS 24″.
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Pressure-temperature ratings for classes 150, 300, 400, 600, 900, 1500, and 2500.
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Dimensions, tolerances, facing types, and marking requirements.
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Materials including carbon steel, stainless steel, alloy steel, and nickel alloys.
Common types of flanges in ASME B16.5:
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Weld Neck
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Slip-On
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Blind
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Socket Weld
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Threaded
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Lap Joint
Key Features:
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Widely used in oil and gas, petrochemical, chemical, power generation, and industrial piping.
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Designed for both high-pressure and high-temperature service.
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Compatible with ASME B31.3 (Process Piping) and ASME Boiler & Pressure Vessel Code.
Other Flange Standards and How They Compare
1. ASME B16.47
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Covers flanges larger than NPS 24 (26″ to 60″) in two series:
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Series A: Similar to API 605; thicker, heavier flanges for higher strength.
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Series B: Similar to MSS SP-44; lighter, less material, lower bolt loads.
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Key Difference from ASME B16.5: B16.5 covers smaller sizes, B16.47 is for large-diameter flanges.
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Applications: Large pipelines, offshore facilities, high-flow industrial systems.
2. API (American Petroleum Institute) Flanges
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API 6A and API 6B/6BX standards are primarily used in the oil and gas sector.
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Designed for extreme high-pressure service, often exceeding ASME B16.5 pressure classes.
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API flanges use ring-type joint (RTJ) facings for superior sealing.
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Key Difference: API standards focus on upstream oil and gas equipment, while ASME B16.5 is broader.
3. DIN (Deutsches Institut für Normung) Flanges
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German/European standard, commonly used in continental Europe.
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Pressure ratings differ from ASME; uses PN (Pressure Nominal) ratings like PN10, PN16, PN25, PN40.
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DIN flanges have different bolt circle diameters and dimensions compared to ASME B16.5.
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Key Difference: Metric-based dimensions, PN pressure classes, different gasket compatibility.
4. EN 1092-1 Flanges
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European Norm (EN) standard replacing older DIN standards for steel flanges.
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Covers flange types similar to ASME but uses PN ratings and metric dimensions.
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Widely used in Europe and countries with EU-based engineering codes.
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Key Difference: Metric sizing, PN pressure ratings, broader flange type definitions.
5. JIS (Japanese Industrial Standards) Flanges
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Common in Japan and parts of Asia.
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Pressure ratings: 5K, 10K, 16K, 20K, 30K.
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Different bolt hole patterns compared to ASME.
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Key Difference: Uses “K” class system instead of PSI-based pressure ratings.
6. MSS SP-44
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Developed by the Manufacturers Standardization Society.
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For steel pipeline flanges, particularly in the oil and gas transmission industry.
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Similar to ASME B16.47 Series B but covers NPS 12 and larger.
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Key Difference: Optimized for pipeline applications, lighter than Series A flanges.
Detailed Comparison Table
|
Standard |
Size Range |
Pressure Classes |
Units |
Common Applications |
Main Differences vs. B16.5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
ASME B16.5 |
NPS 1/2 – NPS 24 |
150 – 2500 |
Inch |
Industrial piping, chemical |
Covers smaller sizes |
|
ASME B16.47 |
NPS 26 – NPS 60 |
75 – 900 |
Inch |
Large-diameter piping |
Larger size coverage |
|
API 6A/6B |
Varies |
2000 – 20000 PSI |
Inch |
Oil & gas wellheads |
Very high pressure ratings |
|
DIN |
DN 10 – DN 2000 |
PN 6 – PN 400 |
Metric |
European industrial systems |
Metric & PN-based ratings |
|
EN 1092-1 |
DN 10 – DN 4000 |
PN 2.5 – PN 400 |
Metric |
EU-based pipelines |
Harmonized EU standard |
|
JIS |
10A – 1500A |
5K – 30K |
Metric |
Japanese & Asian piping |
“K” pressure system |
|
MSS SP-44 |
NPS 12 and larger |
150 – 900 |
Inch |
Oil & gas pipelines |
Pipeline focus |
Selecting the Right Standard
Choosing the correct flange standard depends on:
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Geographic Location: Local regulations may dictate standards.
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Industry: API for oil and gas; ASME for general process industries.
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Size and Pressure Requirements: Large diameters may require B16.47 or MSS SP-44.
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Material Compatibility: Carbon steel, stainless steel, or special alloys.
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Interchangeability: Ensure matching dimensions with existing equipment.
Importance of Compliance
Using the wrong flange standard can lead to:
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Bolt hole misalignment.
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Gasket mismatch and leakage.
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Structural failure under pressure.
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Non-compliance with regulatory codes.
Ensuring compliance with the correct standard is critical for system integrity and safety.
Role of Trusted Suppliers
Partnering with a knowledgeable supplier like SJM Vina ensures:
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Correct standard selection based on application.
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Compliance with ASME, API, DIN, EN, JIS, and MSS specifications.
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High-quality manufacturing with proper certifications.
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Technical guidance for material and pressure class selection.
Conclusion
While ASME B16.5 is one of the most widely adopted flange standards worldwide, it is not the only one used in industrial piping systems. Each standard—whether API, DIN, EN, JIS, or MSS—has unique dimensional, pressure, and application requirements. Understanding these differences is essential to ensuring compatibility, safety, and performance.
By partnering with experts like Sunjin Metals Vina, you can select the right flange standard for your project, ensuring long-lasting, leak-free connections that meet industry codes and withstand demanding operating conditions. Contact us at +84 33 4233 127 or via email at sjmvina@sunjinmetal.com. Visit www.sjmvina.com.vn for more information and to place your order today!
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