In industrial piping systems, especially those handling liquids or gases, flanges are essential for connecting pipes, valves, and equipment. Besides flange type (weld neck, slip-on, threaded...), another critical factor to consider is the pressure rating, commonly referred to as Class 150, 300, 600, etc.
But what exactly does “Class 150” or “Class 300” mean? How do we choose the correct flange class for different pressure levels? In this article, Sunjin Metals Vina (SJM Vina) will help you clearly understand the meaning behind these classes and how to select the right one based on working conditions.

1. What is “Class”? What does Class 150, 300, 600 mean?
“Class” refers to the pressure rating system defined by the ANSI/ASME B16.5 standard, widely used in inch-based (imperial) piping systems.
Common flange classes include:
Class 150, 300, 600, 900, 1500, 2500
Contrary to popular belief, Class 150 does not directly mean 150 PSI. The actual pressure capacity depends on temperature, material, and design standard.
For example:
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Class 150 can handle up to 285 PSI (≈19.6 bar) at 38°C
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Class 300 supports up to 740 PSI (≈49.6 bar) at 38°C
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Class 600 handles up to 1440 PSI (≈99.3 bar) at 38°C
Note: Higher temperature = Lower allowable pressure
2. Class 150 Flanges – For Low Pressure Systems
Features:
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Most economical option
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Easy to install
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Ideal for low-pressure water, air, or light steam applications
Example Application:
A water supply system in a Binh Duong industrial zone uses Class 150 carbon steel flanges for pipelines operating under 10 bar. This class provides sufficient strength at a lower cost.
3. Class 300 Flanges – For Medium Pressure Systems
Features:
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Handles twice the pressure of Class 150
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Suitable for hot oil, steam, or compressed air systems
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Commonly used in factories and pumping stations
Example Application:
A wood processing plant in Dong Nai uses Class 300 stainless steel flanges (SS304) in a steam pipeline running at 8–10 bar and 180°C.
4. Class 600 Flanges – For High Pressure, Critical Systems
Features:
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Designed for heavy-duty and high-pressure applications
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Ideal for oil & gas, chemical plants, and boiler systems
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Usually made from high-grade materials like alloy steel or stainless 316L
Example Application:
A pipeline at a petrochemical facility uses Class 600 welding neck flanges (ASTM A105) to safely operate at ~80 bar and 300°C in continuous service.
Quick Comparison: Flange Pressure Classes
| Class | Max Pressure @ 38°C | Typical Applications |
|---|---|---|
| Class 150 | ~285 PSI (≈19.6 bar) | Water, air, light steam |
| Class 300 | ~740 PSI (≈49.6 bar) | Steam, hot oil, compressed air |
| Class 600 | ~1440 PSI (≈99.3 bar) | Oil & gas, chemicals, boilers |
Pressure ratings decrease as temperature increases.
How to Choose the Right Flange Class
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✅ Determine working pressure and safety margins
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✅ Identify maximum system temperature
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✅ Match the right material and flange type (weld neck, slip-on, etc.)
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✅ Seek advice from experienced suppliers like SJM Vina
Sunjin Metals Vina – Trusted Supplier of ANSI Flanges
Sunjin Metals Vina (SJM Vina) specializes in supplying a wide range of ANSI/ASME B16.5 flanges with pressure ratings from Class 150 to Class 600 and beyond, including:
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Welding neck, slip-on, threaded, and blind flanges
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Carbon steel, stainless steel (304/316), alloy steel materials
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In-stock inventory in Ho Chi Minh City, fast nationwide delivery
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Full certifications: CO, CQ, test reports, mill certificates
📍 Address: 628 Le Hong Phong, Ward 10, District 10, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
📞 Hotline: +84 33 4233 127
📧 Email: sjmvina@sunjinmetal.com
🌐 Website: www.sjmvina.com.vn
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