Product Guides
Pipe Flange Guide: Types, AS 2129 Tables D/E, ANSI Classes & Bolt Patterns
The pipe flange is the most common bolted pipe-joint connection in AU industry — used to join two pipe lengths, attach a valve to a line, connect a pump to a manifold, blank off the end of a run, or provide a tie-in point for future expansion. The principle is simple: two mating flanges sandwich a gasket, bolts pull the flanges together to compress the gasket, and the joint is leak-tight. The complexity is in the standards. Australia uses three overlapping flange standard families — AS 2129 (general purpose, Tables A through T), AS 4087 (waterworks, PN16/21/35), and ANSI B16.5 (oil and gas, Class 150/300/600). They have different bolt circle diameters, different numbers of holes, different bolt sizes, and different pressure ratings. A DN100 Table E flange will NOT bolt up to a DN100 ANSI Class 150 flange. A DN100 AS 4087 PN16 will NOT bolt up to a DN100 AS 2129 Table D. Get the standard wrong and you've ordered the wrong flange — or worse, you've installed a joint that looks fine but isn't compliant with the system design. This guide covers flange types (slip-on, weld neck, blind, threaded, lap joint, reducing), face types (flat face, raised face, ring joint), the three standard families with comprehensive bolt-pattern reference tables, cross-standard compatibility, blind flange applications, gasket selection, bolting sequence, common installation mistakes and the AIMS supply story. AIMS stocks 20+ pipe flange product families across AAP house brand and Dixon, covering AS 2129 Table D + Table H, AS 4087 PN16 + PN21 + PN35, and ANSI B16.5 Class 150 + Class 300 + Class 600. Slip-on, weld neck, blind, threaded (BSP and NPT), roll-grooved adaptor, and TTMA buttweld variants — see the AIMS supply section below. Important disclaimer: The dimension and bolt pattern values in this guide are typical and indicative. For safety-critical specification, engineers must verify all flange dimensions against the current edition of the relevant standard (AS 2129:2000, AS 4087:2011, ASME B16.5, etc.) and the manufacturer's product datasheet. Flange selection for pressure-piping systems is regulated under AS 4041 (Pressure Piping) and AS 1210 (Pressure Vessels) — confirm class rating against system design conditions. Bookmark our Engineering Reference Charts hub for related sizing tables, conversion charts and Australian standard references across 9 topic clusters. How a pipe flange joint works A flanged pipe joint has four components: two mating flanges (one welded or threaded to each pipe end), a gasket between them, and a set of bolts pulling the flanges together. The pipe ends are flanged — either by welding a flange to the pipe end (slip-on, weld neck), threading the pipe into a screwed flange, or rolling a groove and clamping a flange adaptor onto the pipe (Victaulic-style). A gasket sits between the two flange faces — sized to match the flange's gasket seating surface. The gasket material is selected for the fluid + temperature + pressure (see the Spiral Wound Gasket Guide for material selection and the O-Ring Guide for elastomer chemical compatibility). Bolts pass through aligned holes in both flanges. Bolt size, number of bolts, and hole diameter are all standard-specific — every flange standard has its own bolt pattern. The bolts are tightened in a controlled sequence (cross-pattern, multi-stage torque) to compress the gasket uniformly. Even compression = bubble-tight joint. The key engineering insight: the joint's pressure rating is governed by the weakest of (a) the flange itself, (b) the gasket's seating compression, (c) the bolt's tensile capacity. All three must be matched to the system's design pressure + temperature. The AU standards reality — AS 2129, AS 4087, ANSI B16.5 Australia uses three flange standard families, each derived from different historical origins and each serving different industries. The wrong-standard-for-the-application is the single most common flange ordering mistake in AU industry. Standard Origin Industries Pressure ratings Sizing convention AS 2129:2000 British BS 10 (1962 base), Australian adoption General industrial pipework, light water systems, mining, building services, agriculture Tables A, B, C, D, E, F, H, J, K, R, S, T (low to high pressure) Imperial nominal pipe size with metric DN equivalents AS 4087:2011 Australian water industry-specific (replaces older Australian water flange specs) Waterworks, water utility mains, sewerage, treatment plants, hydrants PN16, PN21, PN35 (pressure nominal in bar) Metric DN ASME B16.5 American, ANSI/ASME global standard Oil and gas, petrochemical, process plants, refineries, LNG, mining process Class 150, 300, 600, 900, 1500, 2500 NPS (Nominal Pipe Size, imperial) EN 1092-1 / DIN 2501 European Imported European equipment, some HVAC PN6, PN10, PN16, PN25, PN40 etc. Metric DN JIS B 2220 Japanese Imported Japanese equipment, marine, some industrial 5K, 10K, 16K, 20K, 30K (kg/cm²) Metric A-series Which standard for which application — AU industry practice General workshop, building services, light industrial: AS 2129 Table D (low pressure) or Table E (general) Water utility, council water mains, sewerage, fire ring main: AS 4087 PN16 or PN21 Higher pressure water industry, pump stations: AS 4087 PN35 or AS 2129 Table H Oil and gas pipelines, refinery, process plants: ASME B16.5 Class 150 / 300 / 600 (per pressure class design) Imported European machinery (pumps, valves, vessels): EN 1092-1 (PN16, PN25, PN40 common) Mining process water, slurry, dewatering: AS 2129 Table E or Table H (per pressure design) Compressed air ring main, instrument air: AS 2129 Table D or ANSI Class 150 When connecting two existing flanges of unknown origin, always identify both flanges' standards before ordering replacement gasket or hardware. Bolt-up of mismatched standards (visually similar but bolt-pattern different) is the most common cause of "the new flange doesn't fit" calls. Flange types — slip-on, weld neck, blind, threaded, lap joint, reducing Seven major flange types are commonly specified in AU industry. Each is suited to specific service conditions, installation requirements and pressure class. Flange type How it attaches to pipe Strength (relative) Best for Avoid Slip-on (plate) Pipe slides through flange; flange welded with two fillet welds (front + back) ~70% of weld neck General-purpose pipework, low to medium pressure, easy alignment during install High-pressure service, fatigue-cycling service, severe thermal cycling Weld neck (WN) Tapered neck butt-welds to pipe end; smooth bore transition 100% (the reference) High-pressure service, fatigue service, thermal cycling, all critical pipework Cost-sensitive low-pressure work where slip-on is acceptable Blind Solid plate — no pipe bore. Used to terminate a line or blank off a connection N/A (solid plate) Line termination, future tie-in points, equipment isolation, pressure test endpoints, maintenance access blanks Through-flow service (blind = no flow) Threaded (screwed) BSP or NPT thread cut into flange bore; pipe threads in Limited by thread strength Galvanised pipe, low-pressure non-hazardous service, small bore (≤2"), where welding is impractical High pressure, vibration, thermal cycling (threads loosen) Socket weld (SW) Pipe slides into recessed bore; single fillet weld ~80% of weld neck Small bore (≤2"), instrument lines, sample taps, branch connections in process service Large bore, corrosive service (crevice corrosion in socket) Lap joint Flange slides freely over stub end; stub end butt-welds to pipe ~80% of weld neck (stub end controls) Stainless steel or expensive alloy lines (lap flange in cheap carbon steel), frequent disassembly, hole alignment headaches High-pressure service requiring full strength Reducing Two different bore sizes in one flange (e.g. 4" flange with 2" bore) Per smaller bore rating Pipe size transitions in tight spaces, eliminating an extra reducer fitting Where flow stream uniformity matters For ordering, the most common AU industrial flange families are slip-on (general purpose) and blind (line termination + isolation). Weld neck is specified for higher-pressure service and any installation where the joint sees fatigue cycling or thermal stress. Threaded flanges remain common in galvanised pipe water service. Blind flanges — what they're for, when to use them A blind flange is a solid disc with the same outside diameter, bolt circle, hole pattern, thickness and rating as the equivalent slip-on or weld neck flange — but with no pipe bore. The blind flange bolts onto a mating flange to terminate the line. Inside the blind flange, flow stops. Outside, the bolted joint behaves identically to any other flanged connection. Where blind flanges are specified End-of-line termination — the simplest case. A header, manifold or distribution line that ends at a point. The blind flange caps the end. Easy to remove later if the line is extended. Future tie-in points — pipework designed with future expansion in mind. A spool piece + blind flange is welded in at design stage. When the future connection is added, the blind flange is removed and the new branch piped in. No hot work near live equipment. Equipment isolation blanks — replacing a valve or piece of equipment temporarily. The pipework is opened, the equipment removed, and blind flanges installed on both upstream and downstream sides to seal the system while the equipment is out of service. Pressure test endpoints — a pipework system requires hydrostatic test before commissioning. Blind flanges seal the line ends during the pressure test, with one blind drilled for a fill/test connection. Maintenance access blanks — a flanged opening in a tank, vessel or large pipe that's normally bolted closed with a blind flange. Removing the blind opens an inspection or cleanout access. Spectacle blinds — a specialty form. A figure-eight shaped plate sits between two mating flanges; one half is a blind, one half is a hole (open). Rotating the spectacle blind 180° switches between "line open" and "line blanked" without removing the assembly. Used at storage tank inlets, transfer station blocking, and any point where positive isolation is required for confined-space entry under WHS LOTO procedures. Critical sizing rule A blind flange MUST match the standard, rating and bolt pattern of the mating flange exactly. A DN100 Table E blind flange bolts to a DN100 Table E mating flange. It will NOT bolt to a DN100 Table D mating flange (different bolt circle), and it will NOT bolt to a DN100 ANSI Class 150 mating flange (different bolt count + circle + hole size). Always identify the mating flange's exact standard and rating before ordering a blind. AIMS blind flange range AIMS stocks four blind flange product families across AU and US standards: AAP Blind Steel Plate Flange — AS 2129 Table D, 2" to 5" sizes, 113 units in stock AAP Blind Steel Plate Flange Table-H — AS 2129 Table H high pressure, 2" to 6", 84 units AAP Blind Flat Face Flange PN16 — AS 4087 PN16 water industry, 3" to 10", 160 units (largest blind range in stock) AAP Blind Flanges 316/316L SS C150 — ANSI Class 150 stainless steel, 1" to 4", 96 units (chemical + marine + food service) For blind flange sizes or ratings not in stock — AS 2129 Table E blinds, AS 4087 PN21 or PN35 blinds, ANSI Class 300 or 600 blinds, EN 1092 PN25 blinds, spectacle blinds — contact our team for sourcing through our supplier network. Slip-on vs weld neck — strength + cost trade-off Slip-on and weld neck are the two dominant non-blind flange types. Both end up with a flange face on the end of the pipe — the difference is how they get there. Slip-on plate flange The pipe slides through the bore of the flange to a stop point, then two fillet welds are made — one outside the flange (between the flange OD and the pipe OD), one inside (between the pipe end and the flange face). The flange is mechanically held by both welds. Advantages: Cheaper than weld neck (lower flange cost, simpler manufacture). Easier alignment during installation — the pipe can be positioned and rotated before welding. Lower skill requirement for the welder (two fillet welds vs one critical butt weld). Disadvantages: Strength is approximately 70% of equivalent weld neck. The fillet weld at the flange face creates a stress concentration. Not approved for sustained high-pressure service in most pressure-piping codes. Bore transition is abrupt (90° step), which can cause flow disruption + erosion in some services. AIMS stocks the AAP Slip-On Weld Flange ANSI B16.5 Class 150 (290 units, 19 size variants — the deepest single flange product in stock), the AAP Slip-On Plate Flange (Table D), the AAP Slip-On Forged Flange Table-H for higher pressure, and the AAP 4" Slip-on Forged Steel Plate Flange BS10 Table-D. Weld neck flange The pipe end butt-welds to a tapered neck that's integral to the flange. The neck wall thickness matches the pipe wall thickness (specify XS for extra-strong, STD for standard schedule, etc.). The bore transitions smoothly from pipe ID to flange bore — no step. Advantages: Full 100% strength relative to the pipe (the joint is as strong as a continuous pipe). Smooth bore transition (low flow disruption). Excellent fatigue + thermal cycling performance. The default choice for high-pressure pipework, refinery + petrochemical service, and any pressure-piping system designed to AS 4041 + ASME B31.3. Disadvantages: Higher flange cost (more material, more complex forging). Requires a skilled welder for the critical butt weld + correct pre-heat + post-weld heat treatment per WPS. The pipe must be cut accurately to length before welding (no length adjustment after). AIMS stocks the AAP Weld Neck Flange ANSI B16.5 Class 150 (XS schedule) (88 units, 2" to 6") and the AAP Weld Neck Flange ANSI B16.5 Class 600 (96 units, 1" to 4") for high-pressure service. When to specify each Slip-on: Low to medium pressure (Class 150 / Table D / PN16). Workshop service. Building services. Irrigation. Compressed air. Cost-sensitive installations where weld neck is not strictly required. Weld neck: High pressure (Class 300+ / Table H / PN35+). Process plant service. Refinery, petrochemical. Steam (any pressure). Sustained vibration or thermal cycling. Any pressure-piping system where AS 4041 or ASME B31.3 design rules apply. Threaded (screwed) flanges — BSP vs NPT A threaded flange has a tapered or parallel pipe thread cut into its bore. The pipe is threaded with a matching male thread and screwed in. Used where welding is impractical (galvanised pipe — welding burns the zinc coating), where the pipe is field-cut to length without weld equipment, and where the pressure rating is low to moderate. BSP vs NPT — the AU + US thread reality Thread standard Origin Industries Sealing method BSP (G or R) — British Standard Pipe British / Australian default AU plumbing, water, gas (limited), general industrial, hydraulics (some) BSPT (R) tapered — seals on thread interference. BSPP (G) parallel — seals on washer/O-ring at face. NPT — National Pipe Tapered American US oil and gas, imported US equipment, process plants spec'd to ASME Tapered thread — seals on thread interference with thread sealant or PTFE tape BSP and NPT are NOT interchangeable. Pitch is different (BSP at 11, 14, 19 TPI; NPT at 11.5, 14, 18, 27 TPI) and thread angle is different (BSP 55°; NPT 60°). A BSP male in an NPT female may thread several turns but will not seal and will likely leak under pressure or fail under thermal cycling. AIMS threaded flange range AIMS stocks BOTH BSP and NPT threaded flange options to cover AU + imported US equipment service: AAP Screwed Flange ANSI B16.5 Class 150 — BSP — 1" to 4" (5 variants), 72 units. The AU industrial workhorse. AAP Screwed Flange ANSI B16.5 Class 150 — NPT — 1/2" to 2" (9 variants), 120 units. For imported US equipment + process service. AAP Screwed Flange ANSI B16.5 Class 300 — NPT — 1/2" to 2" (8 variants), 121 units. Higher-pressure US-thread service. AAP Screwed Forged Flange Table-H — 3/4" to 2" (6 variants), 68 units. AS 2129 Table H high-pressure BSP service. Dixon Screwed Flange Round Drilled Table D BSP — Galvanised Malleable Iron — 1/2" to 2" (10 variants), 96 units. The galvanised plumbing + water service standard. For pressure-piping context on thread standards (BSPP vs BSPT, NPT, sealing methods, AS 1722), see the Hydraulic Fittings Guide which covers all pipe thread standards used across AU industry. Face types — flat face, raised face, RTJ, tongue & groove The flange face is the surface that contacts the gasket. Five face types are commonly specified: Face type Description Best for Avoid Flat Face (FF) The entire flange face is flat. Full-face gasket extends to the bolt holes. Cast iron flanges (mandatory — see warning below), low-pressure service, AU water industry default (AS 4087) High-pressure service where flange face stress would crush the gasket Raised Face (RF) A small raised ring around the bore (typically 2mm high). Gasket sits on the raised ring only, not extending to the bolt holes. The default for ANSI B16.5 Class 150 and above, most process service, where higher gasket compression is required Cast iron flange mate (cracks under bolt torque — see warning) Ring-Type Joint (RTJ) A machined groove around the bore accepts a soft metal ring gasket (octagonal or oval cross-section). High-pressure oil + gas (Class 600+), refinery service, high-temperature steam Low-pressure service (RTJ is expensive overkill) Tongue & Groove (T&G) One flange has a raised tongue, the mate has a corresponding groove. Self-aligning. Severe service where gasket blow-out must be prevented, high-pressure or high-temperature applications General-purpose service (cost not justified) Male & Female (M&F) One flange has a male shoulder, the mate has a recessed female. Aligns gasket precisely. Where gasket positioning under high pressure must be guaranteed Where flange disassembly + reassembly orientation matters (asymmetric) CRITICAL WARNING — Never bolt a raised face (RF) flange to a flat face (FF) cast iron flange. The raised face concentrates bolt-up force on a small area of the cast iron flange. Cast iron is brittle in tension and cracks at the raised-face contact zone, sometimes during initial bolt-up and often weeks or months later under thermal cycling. Cast iron flanges (gate valves, pumps, fittings with cast iron bodies) must always mate to a flat face flange — never raised face. If the mating equipment has a cast iron flat face flange, specify a flat face (FF) mate, not raised face. For gasket selection covering all face types (flat face fibre, spiral wound for raised face, soft metal rings for RTJ), see the Spiral Wound Gasket Guide covering material selection by service and AS 4087 + ASME B16.20 standards. AS 2129 — Tables A through T explained AS 2129:2000 (Flanges for pipes, valves and fittings) is the Australian general-purpose flange standard derived from the British BS 10 standard. AS 2129 organises flanges into pressure-rating "Tables" lettered A through T, each rated to a specific working pressure at standard temperature. Table Working pressure (typical) Industry use Table A ~310 kPa Very low pressure — almost obsolete in modern installations Table B ~620 kPa Low pressure water + air Table C ~930 kPa Light-duty water Table D ~1,400 kPa (14 bar) Standard low-medium pressure — most common AU general-purpose flange. Building services, irrigation, general process. Table E ~1,800 kPa (18 bar) The AU water industry default — most pump connections, valve flanges, hydrant inlets. Slightly higher pressure than Table D, slightly larger PCD on some sizes. Table F ~2,800 kPa (28 bar) Higher pressure water and general industrial Table H ~5,500 kPa (55 bar) High pressure — AIMS stocks Table H slip-on, blind, screwed and forged options. Mining process service, hydraulics, high-pressure pumps. Table J ~7,000 kPa (70 bar) High pressure Table K ~10,300 kPa (103 bar) Very high pressure Table R, S, T 14,000 kPa+ (140 bar+) Very high pressure — specialist service The most commonly specified AS 2129 Tables in AU general industry are Tables D, E and H. Tables D and E differ slightly in bolt circle diameter on some sizes — the PCD reference table below shows the exact values. AS 2129 PCD + bolt pattern reference — Tables D, E and H The bolt circle diameter (PCD — Pitch Circle Diameter), number of bolt holes, hole diameter and bolt size for the three most commonly stocked AS 2129 Tables. These are typical published values — engineers must verify against AS 2129:2000 current edition for safety-critical specification. AS 2129 Table D — general purpose (low-medium pressure) Size DN OD (mm) PCD (mm) No. of holes Hole dia (mm) Bolt size 1/2" DN15 95 67 4 14 M12 3/4" DN20 100 73 4 14 M12 1" DN25 115 83 4 14 M12 1-1/4" DN32 120 87 4 14 M12 1-1/2" DN40 135 98 4 18 M16 2" DN50 150 114 4 18 M16 2-1/2" DN65 165 127 4 18 M16 3" DN80 185 146 4 18 M16 4" DN100 215 178 4 18 M16 5" DN125 255 210 8 18 M16 6" DN150 280 235 8 22 M20 8" DN200 335 292 8 22 M20 10" DN250 405 356 12 22 M20 12" DN300 455 406 12 26 M24 AS 2129 Table E — AU water industry default Size DN OD (mm) PCD (mm) No. of holes Hole dia (mm) Bolt size 1/2" DN15 95 67 4 14 M12 3/4" DN20 100 73 4 14 M12 1" DN25 115 83 4 14 M12 1-1/4" DN32 125 95 4 14 M12 1-1/2" DN40 135 105 4 18 M16 2" DN50 165 127 4 18 M16 2-1/2" DN65 185 140 4 18 M16 3" DN80 205 165 4 18 M16 4" DN100 230 191 8 18 M16 5" DN125 270 235 8 18 M16 6" DN150 305 260 8 22 M20 8" DN200 370 324 8 22 M20 10" DN250 430 387 12 26 M24 12" DN300 490 438 12 26 M24 AS 2129 Table H — high pressure Size DN OD (mm) PCD (mm) No. of holes Hole dia (mm) Bolt size 1/2" DN15 105 75 4 18 M16 3/4" DN20 115 83 4 18 M16 1" DN25 120 89 4 18 M16 1-1/4" DN32 135 98 4 18 M16 1-1/2" DN40 150 114 4 18 M16 2" DN50 165 127 4 22 M20 2-1/2" DN65 185 146 4 22 M20 3" DN80 205 165 8 22 M20 4" DN100 230 191 8 22 M20 6" DN150 305 260 8 26 M24 8" DN200 370 324 8 26 M24 Key observation: Tables D and E often share OD and PCD on small sizes (DN15 to DN25) but diverge on larger sizes. Table E flanges at DN50 onwards are physically larger with bigger PCD than Table D — they are NOT interchangeable from DN50 up. AS 4087 — PN16, PN21, PN35 (AU waterworks) AS 4087:2011 (Metallic flanges for waterworks purposes) is the Australian waterworks-specific flange standard, separate from AS 2129. AS 4087 uses PN (Pressure Nominal in bar) ratings, with three classes common in AU water utility service: PN16 — 16 bar working pressure. Standard water distribution mains, pump suction, low-pressure water service. PN21 — 21 bar working pressure. Higher-pressure water distribution, pump discharge, hydrants. Roughly equivalent in pressure to ANSI Class 150 but with a different bolt pattern. PN35 — 35 bar working pressure. High-pressure water service, mining process water, fire ring mains under elevated pressure. Roughly equivalent in pressure to ANSI Class 300 but with a different bolt pattern. AS 4087 PN16 bolt pattern reference Size DN OD (mm) PCD (mm) No. of holes Hole dia (mm) Bolt size 2" DN50 165 125 4 18 M16 3" DN80 185 145 4 18 M16 4" DN100 220 180 8 18 M16 6" DN150 285 240 8 22 M20 8" DN200 340 295 8 22 M20 10" DN250 395 350 12 22 M20 12" DN300 445 400 12 22 M20 AS 4087 PN21 bolt pattern reference Size DN OD (mm) PCD (mm) No. of holes Hole dia (mm) Bolt size 2" DN50 165 125 4 18 M16 3" DN80 185 145 4 18 M16 4" DN100 220 180 8 18 M16 6" DN150 285 240 8 22 M20 8" DN200 340 295 8 22 M20 10" DN250 405 355 12 26 M24 12" DN300 455 410 12 26 M24 AS 4087 PN35 bolt pattern reference Size DN OD (mm) PCD (mm) No. of holes Hole dia (mm) Bolt size 2" DN50 175 135 4 22 M20 3" DN80 205 160 8 22 M20 4" DN100 235 190 8 22 M20 6" DN150 305 250 8 26 M24 8" DN200 375 320 12 26 M24 10" DN250 440 385 12 30 M27 12" DN300 490 438 12 30 M27 AIMS stocks AS 4087 PN16 in the AAP Blind Flat Face Flange PN16 range (3" to 10", 160 units), the AAP Plate Flat Faced Flange PN21 (4" to 12", 192 units) and the AAP Plate Flat Faced Flange PN35 (4" to 12", 112 units). ANSI B16.5 — Class 150, 300, 600 (US standard) ASME B16.5 is the American flange standard used globally in oil + gas, refinery, petrochemical, and process plant service. Ratings are given as "Class" numbers approximating the maximum allowable working pressure in psi at moderate temperature, but the actual pressure-temperature rating is published in ASME B16.5 pressure-temperature tables per material grade. Class Approximate pressure rating Industry use Class 150 ~20 bar / 285 psi at room temp General process, low-pressure oil and gas, building services, light industrial. The most commonly specified ANSI class in AU general industry. Class 300 ~52 bar / 740 psi at room temp Higher-pressure process service, pump discharge, vessel inlets, refinery service Class 600 ~104 bar / 1,480 psi at room temp High-pressure pipeline service, oil and gas transmission, fire-safe API 6D pipeline minimum Class 900 ~155 bar / 2,220 psi at room temp Very high pressure pipeline service Class 1500 ~260 bar / 3,700 psi at room temp Severe service pipeline, wellhead Class 2500 ~430 bar / 6,170 psi at room temp Extreme high pressure ANSI B16.5 Class 150 bolt pattern reference Size DN OD (mm) PCD (mm) No. of holes Hole dia (mm) Bolt size 1/2" DN15 90 60.5 4 16 1/2" 3/4" DN20 100 70 4 16 1/2" 1" DN25 110 79 4 16 1/2" 1-1/4" DN32 115 89 4 16 1/2" 1-1/2" DN40 125 98 4 16 1/2" 2" DN50 150 121 4 19 5/8" 2-1/2" DN65 180 140 4 19 5/8" 3" DN80 190 152 4 19 5/8" 4" DN100 230 191 8 19 5/8" 6" DN150 280 241 8 22 3/4" 8" DN200 345 298 8 22 3/4" 10" DN250 405 362 12 25 7/8" 12" DN300 485 432 12 25 7/8" ANSI B16.5 Class 300 bolt pattern reference Size DN OD (mm) PCD (mm) No. of holes Hole dia (mm) Bolt size 1/2" DN15 95 67 4 16 1/2" 3/4" DN20 115 83 4 19 5/8" 1" DN25 125 89 4 19 5/8" 1-1/4" DN32 135 98 4 19 5/8" 1-1/2" DN40 155 114 4 22 3/4" 2" DN50 165 127 8 19 5/8" 2-1/2" DN65 190 149 8 22 3/4" 3" DN80 210 168 8 22 3/4" 4" DN100 255 200 8 22 3/4" 6" DN150 320 270 12 22 3/4" 8" DN200 380 330 12 25 7/8" 10" DN250 445 387 16 29 1" 12" DN300 520 451 16 32 1-1/8" Cross-standard compatibility — which flanges can mate The single most common flange-related sourcing question in AU industry is: "I have flange standard X — will flange standard Y mate with it?" The answer is almost always NO unless the standards are identical, but there are a few specific overlaps worth knowing. If your existing flange is... Compatible with NOT compatible with AS 2129 Table D AS 2129 Table D (same size) Table E (PCD differs from DN50 up), Table H, AS 4087 PN16/21/35, ANSI Class 150/300/600 AS 2129 Table E AS 2129 Table E (same size) Table D (PCD differs from DN50 up), Table H, ANSI Class 150 (PCD + bolt count differ), AS 4087 AS 2129 Table H AS 2129 Table H (same size) All other AS Tables, all ANSI Classes, all AS 4087 PN ratings AS 4087 PN16 AS 4087 PN16 (same size). Same bolt pattern as PN21 in many sizes — but PRESSURE RATING DIFFERS. AS 2129 (all Tables), ANSI Class 150/300, PN35 AS 4087 PN21 AS 4087 PN21 (same size). Same bolt pattern as PN16 in many sizes — but rated for higher pressure. AS 2129, ANSI Class 150 (looks similar — PCD often differs by a few mm), PN35 AS 4087 PN35 AS 4087 PN35 (same size) All other standards ANSI B16.5 Class 150 ANSI Class 150 (same size, same face type RF/FF) AS 2129 Tables, AS 4087 (PCD + holes differ), Class 300/600 ANSI B16.5 Class 300 ANSI Class 300 (same size, same face type) Class 150/600, AS 2129, AS 4087 ANSI B16.5 Class 600 ANSI Class 600 (same size, same face type) Class 150/300/900, AS 2129, AS 4087 The most common AU mistake Specifying AS 2129 Table E for a connection to existing ANSI Class 150 equipment because they have similar pressure ratings. The pressure ratings are similar (~18 bar vs ~20 bar at room temp) but the bolt patterns do not align. Table E and Class 150 have different PCD on most sizes, different numbers of bolts on some sizes, and different bolt diameters on most sizes. A Table E flange will NOT bolt onto a Class 150 flange. The exception — small-bore ANSI Class 600 vs Class 900 For sizes 2" and below, ANSI Class 600 and Class 900 share bolt dimensions in some sizes (the standard reuses the 1500 lb hardware on smaller higher-class flanges). This is the only common interchangeability across pressure classes. Verify against ASME B16.5 table 2-1.2 before assuming compatibility. Lap joint flanges — the workaround If you have a flange in one standard and need to connect to a different standard's pipe end, a lap joint flange + stub end combination is sometimes the cleanest solution. The lap flange rotates freely on the stub end, eliminating bolt-hole alignment headaches. The stub end is welded to the pipe in whatever orientation works. The trade-off is reduced strength (lap joint is ~80% of weld neck) and higher cost (two-piece assembly). Materials — carbon steel, 316 SS, galvanised, aluminium Flange material is selected to match the pipe material, the fluid being transported, and the temperature + corrosion environment. Common AU options: Material Best for Avoid Carbon steel (A105 forged / A216 WCB cast) Oil and gas pipework, refinery, general industrial, structural pipework, building services. The default for most ANSI flanges. Marine, severe chloride, food/dairy/beverage service, low-temperature service (impact rating drops) Stainless steel 316/316L Chemical service, marine, food/dairy/beverage, pharmaceutical, hot water, chloride exposure, low-temperature service. The default for any non-mild environment. Where strength of carbon steel is needed at low cost Stainless steel 304/304L Mild chemical, food/dairy where chloride exposure is low, cosmetic-grade pipework Marine, chloride exposure, swimming pool plant (pits) Galvanised malleable iron Cold potable water, low-pressure plumbing, irrigation, light industrial water — the AU plumbing default Hot water above 60°C (zinc layer degrades), chemical service, high pressure Aluminium (TTMA buttweld) Tank truck flange connections (TTMA standard), road tanker mounting, mobile equipment where weight matters High pressure, structural pipework, fixed installations Ductile iron Water industry, waterworks (AS 4087), buried pipework, fire ring mains High-pressure oil and gas, chemical service Forged alloy steel High-temperature service (steam, refinery), severe service piping Where carbon steel is acceptable (cost penalty) AIMS stocks carbon steel flanges across all AS and ANSI ranges, 316/316L stainless blind flanges (AAP Blind Flanges 316/316L SS Class 150, 1" to 4", 96 units), Dixon malleable iron galvanised threaded flanges (Table D BSP, 96 units), and Dixon aluminium TTMA flanges for tank truck applications. For stainless steel fastener selection covering grades 304/A2-70, 316/A4-70, A4-80, and the galling prevention rules for stainless flange bolting, see the Stainless Steel Fasteners Guide. Gasket selection — flat fibre, spiral wound, ring joint The gasket is the sealing element between two flanges. The gasket material and style is selected to match the flange face type (FF, RF, RTJ), the pressure class, the temperature, and the fluid being sealed. The flange and gasket are a matched pair — neither works without the right partner. Gasket type Face type Pressure range Temperature range Best for Compressed fibre (insertion) Flat face Low to medium (PN16 / Class 150 typical) -40 to 200°C Water, oil, general industrial. Cost-effective workshop default. Rubber sheet (NBR, EPDM) Flat face Low (PN16 / Class 150) NBR -40 to 100°C; EPDM -40 to 150°C Water (EPDM), oil/fuel (NBR), low-pressure ductile iron flange joints PTFE / Teflon Flat face or raised face Low to medium -200 to 260°C Chemical service, food/dairy, anywhere chemical inertness is required Spiral wound (CG/CGI) Raised face Medium to high (Class 150 through Class 2500) -200 to 800°C+ Industrial process, refinery, petrochemical, steam, high-pressure oil and gas. The workshop-standard for most ANSI flange service. Kammprofile / corrugated metal Raised face Medium to high To 600°C+ High temperature where spiral wound alternatives are sought Ring-type joint (RTJ) RTJ groove only High (Class 600+) To 800°C+ API 6A wellhead, high-pressure oil and gas, refinery severe service For comprehensive gasket selection including ASME B16.20 colour codes, AS 4087 standards, material selection by service and the practical installation procedure, see our dedicated Spiral Wound Gasket Guide. AIMS stocks AAP insertion gaskets (compressed fibre + natural rubber, Table E) in the Gaskets collection, plus AAP spiral wound gaskets for raised-face service. Bolting + tightening sequence — the cross-pattern rule Even bolt torque around the flange is what makes a leak-tight joint. Sequential tightening (going around the bolt circle in order) distorts the flange and crushes the gasket unevenly — guaranteed leak. Cross-pattern tightening in multiple stages is the only correct method. The 30/60/100% cross-pattern rule Snug all bolts finger-tight to position the flange and gasket. Stage 1 — 30% of final torque applied in cross-pattern (opposite-bolt sequence: 1, 5, 3, 7, 2, 6, 4, 8 for an 8-bolt flange). Stage 2 — 60% of final torque in the same cross-pattern. Stage 3 — 100% of final torque in the same cross-pattern. Stage 4 — Verify by passing around the flange once more in sequence to verify all bolts hold final torque. Bolt grade selection The bolt grade must match the flange's pressure-temperature rating. Common pairings: AS 2129 Tables D/E + AS 4087 PN16/21: Grade 4.6 mild steel or Grade 5.8 zinc-plated (low-pressure water + general) AS 2129 Table H, AS 4087 PN35: Grade 8.8 high-tensile HDG ANSI Class 150: A307 / Grade 5.8 / Grade 8.8 (specification-dependent) ANSI Class 300 and above: A193 B7 (carbon-moly), A193 B16 (high-temp), or A320 L7 (low-temp impact rated) Marine, food, chemical: 316 stainless A4-70 or A4-80 For bolt grade markings, Australian + ASTM specification cross-reference, see the Bolt Grade Chart. For metric bolt torque values across all common grades and sizes, see the Metric Bolt Torque Chart. Bolt holes straddle the centerline The conventional flange orientation is "two-flat" — the horizontal and vertical centerlines pass midway between bolts, not through bolts. This applies to standard flange installations and is referenced in ASME B16.5 and AS 2129. Drilling holes on the centerline instead of straddling is non-standard and creates installation headaches with the pipe fitter. Common installation mistakes Mistake Consequence Mixing AS 2129 Table D with AS 4087 PN16 (same DN, different PCD) Bolt holes don't align — re-drill or replace flange. Production delay + scrapped flange. Mixing Table E with ANSI Class 150 in water service Pressure rated OK but bolt pattern wrong. Flange won't bolt up. Bolt holes drilled on centerline instead of straddling Non-standard install — pipe fitter rework. Equipment alignment headaches. RF flange on flat-face cast iron mate Cast iron flange cracks under bolt torque. Complete equipment replacement. Wrong gasket OD for raised face Gasket overhang into bolt circle, leak under pressure. Slip-on flange used where weld neck is specified Reduced fatigue life, premature joint failure under cycling load. Through-bolt loose fit (oversized hole) Joint vibration loosens bolts over time. Leak develops in service. Cross-tightening skipped, sequential tightening used Flange distortion, uneven gasket compression, leak. Galvanised bolt + chloride exposure (marine, swimming pool plant) Galvanic corrosion of bolt, joint fails over months. Specify 316 SS. BSP flange + NPT pipe (or vice versa) Thread interference but no seal. Leaks immediately or under cycling. AIMS pipe flange supply — AAP + Dixon AIMS stocks over 20 distinct pipe flange product families across AS 2129, AS 4087 and ANSI B16.5 — one of the deepest flange ranges in AU industrial supply. AAP dominates by SKU count and volume; Dixon supplies specialty configurations (Table D screwed galvanised, roll-grooved adaptor, TTMA buttweld). Slip-on flanges AAP Slip-On Weld Flange ANSI B16.5 Class 150 — 1/2" to 2"+ (19 size variants), 290 units. The single deepest flange product in stock. AAP Slip-On Plate Flange — AS 2129 Table D, 1/2" to 2"+ (13 variants), 192 units AAP Slip-On Forged Flange Table-H — high-pressure, 1/2" to 2"+ (9 variants), 155 units AAP 4" Slip-on Forged Steel Plate Flange BS10 Table-D — 16 units AAP Plate Flat Faced Flange PN21 — AS 4087 water, 4" to 12" (12 variants), 192 units AAP Plate Flat Faced Flange PN35 — AS 4087 water, 4" to 12" (7 variants), 112 units Weld neck flanges AAP Weld Neck Flange XS ANSI B16.5 Class 150 — 2" to 6" (6 variants), 88 units AAP Weld Neck Flange ANSI B16.5 Class 600 — high-pressure, 1" to 4" (6 variants), 96 units Blind flanges AAP Blind Steel Plate Flange — AS 2129 Table D, 2" to 5" (7 variants), 113 units AAP Blind Steel Plate Flange Table-H — AS 2129 Table H, 2" to 6" (5 variants), 84 units AAP Blind Flat Face Flange PN16 — AS 4087, 3" to 10" (11 variants), 160 units AAP Blind Flanges 316/316L SS Class 150 — stainless, 1" to 4" (6 variants), 96 units Threaded (screwed) flanges AAP Screwed Flange ANSI B16.5 Class 150 BSP — 1" to 4" (5 variants), 72 units AAP Screwed Flange ANSI B16.5 Class 150 NPT — 1/2" to 2" (9 variants), 120 units AAP Screwed Flange ANSI B16.5 Class 300 NPT — 1/2" to 2" (8 variants), 121 units AAP Screwed Forged Flange Table-H — 3/4" to 2" (6 variants), 68 units Dixon Screwed Flange Round Drilled Table D BSP Galvanised Malleable Iron — 1/2" to 2" (10 variants), 96 units Specialty + adaptor flanges Dixon 4" Roll Grooved Flange Adaptor Table D Galvanised — Victaulic-to-flanged transition Dixon Roll Grooved Flange Adaptor — multi-size, 40 units, 304/316 SS + galvanised Dixon TTMA Buttweld Flange 4" Aluminium — tank truck industry standard Dixon TTMA Buttweld Flange 3 x 3/8" Aluminium — tank truck Honest scope — sourced through supplier network on request The following are NOT in standard AIMS stock and are sourced through our supplier network: AS 4087 PN16 + PN35 weld-neck flanges specifically (PN21 stocked as flat face plate) AS 2129 Tables A, B, C, F, J, K, R, S, T (lower-traffic and high-pressure ratings) ASME B16.5 Class 900 / 1500 / 2500 (extreme high-pressure) ASME B16.47 large diameter flanges (>24" / DN600) ASME B16.48 line blanks (spectacle blinds) EN 1092-1 / DIN 2501 European flanges (PN6, PN10, PN25, PN40) JIS B 2220 Japanese flanges (5K, 10K, 16K) Lap joint flanges + stub ends Orifice flanges (with tap connections for flow measurement) Spectacle blinds + figure-8 line blanks Ring-type joint (RTJ) flanges for high-pressure oil and gas (Class 600+) Reducing flanges (e.g. 4" body with 2" bore) For any of these, contact our team or call (02) 9773 0122 with the specification + size + service conditions, and we'll quote the right product through our supplier network. Selection checklist — 9 questions before ordering What standard does the mating flange use? AS 2129 (which Table?), AS 4087 (which PN?), ANSI B16.5 (which Class?), EN 1092, JIS B 2220? Identify exactly before ordering — never assume. What size? Nominal pipe size (NPS or DN). Confirm both ID and OD on the existing flange match the spec. What flange type? Slip-on, weld neck, blind, threaded, lap joint, reducing? Match to service + installation method. What face type? Flat face (FF) for cast iron mate, raised face (RF) for ANSI default, RTJ for high-pressure oil and gas? What material? Carbon steel general, 316 SS for chemical/marine/food, galvanised malleable iron for water plumbing, aluminium for TTMA? What pressure + temperature? Confirm operating + design pressure against the flange's rating at the actual operating temperature (rating de-rates with temperature). What gasket? Specified together with the flange — face type + pressure class + media determines gasket selection. What bolts? Grade matched to flange class. 4.6/5.8 for low pressure, 8.8 for higher, A193 B7 for ANSI process service, 316 SS for marine/chemical. Any regulatory standard? AS 4041 (Pressure Piping), AS 1210 (Pressure Vessels), AS 4087 (waterworks). Confirm certification + traceability. For complex or safety-critical flange specifications — high-pressure process, marine, food/dairy/pharmaceutical, hazardous chemicals — work directly with the design engineer and confirm all flange specifications against the current standard edition + manufacturer datasheet. The values in this guide are typical and indicative. For sizing assistance, cross-standard compatibility, or unusual service conditions, contact our team or call (02) 9773 0122. Frequently asked questions What is a pipe flange? A pipe flange is a bolted joint connection used to join two pipe lengths, attach a valve or piece of equipment to a pipe, or terminate a pipe run. Two mating flanges sandwich a gasket; bolts pull the flanges together to compress the gasket and seal the joint. Pipe flanges are specified to one of three major Australian standard families — AS 2129 (general purpose, Tables A through T), AS 4087 (waterworks, PN16/21/35), or ANSI B16.5 (oil and gas, Class 150/300/600). Each standard has its own bolt circle diameter, hole count, hole diameter and bolt size — flanges of different standards do NOT mate together. What are the main types of pipe flange? Seven major flange types are commonly specified in AU industry: slip-on (pipe slides through, two fillet welds, general purpose), weld neck (tapered neck butt-welds to pipe, full strength, high-pressure default), blind (solid plate, terminates a line), threaded or screwed (BSP or NPT thread, low-pressure water plumbing), socket weld (small-bore process service), lap joint (rotating flange + stub end for easy alignment), and reducing (two different bore sizes for pipe transitions). Slip-on and blind are the most common AU general-purpose types. Weld neck is specified for high-pressure or critical service. What's the difference between AS 2129 Table D and Table E? AS 2129 Table D and Table E are both general-purpose Australian flange ratings. Table D is rated for ~1,400 kPa (14 bar) working pressure — the standard low-medium pressure flange for building services, irrigation, and general industrial. Table E is rated for ~1,800 kPa (18 bar) — the AU water industry default for pump connections, valve flanges and hydrant inlets. The two tables share OD and PCD on small sizes (DN15 to DN25) but diverge from DN50 upward — Table E flanges become physically larger with bigger PCD. A Table D flange will NOT bolt onto a Table E flange at DN50 and larger sizes. AS 2129 vs AS 4087 — which one do I need? AS 2129 is the general-purpose Australian flange standard (Tables A through T, pressure ratings from very low to very high), used for general industrial pipework, building services, irrigation, mining, and most non-water-utility applications. AS 4087 is the Australian waterworks-specific standard (PN16, PN21, PN35) used by water utilities, councils, water treatment plants, and sewerage. If you're working on a council water main, water utility distribution, fire ring main, or sewerage, use AS 4087. If you're working on general industrial pipework, building services, or irrigation, use AS 2129 (typically Table D, E or H). The two standards have different bolt patterns — they are NOT interchangeable. What's the difference between ANSI Class 150 and AS 2129 Table E? Both ANSI Class 150 and AS 2129 Table E are general-purpose, medium-pressure flange ratings (~20 bar and ~18 bar at room temperature respectively). The pressure ratings are similar but the bolt patterns are NOT — they have different bolt circle diameters (PCD), different numbers of bolts on some sizes, and different bolt sizes. An ANSI Class 150 flange will NOT bolt onto an AS 2129 Table E flange even though their pressure ratings are close. This mismatch is one of the most common AU industry flange ordering mistakes. Always identify the exact standard of the mating flange before ordering. How do I read a flange PCD chart? PCD (Pitch Circle Diameter) is the diameter of the imaginary circle that passes through the centres of all the bolt holes around a flange. Reading a flange chart: find the nominal pipe size in the first column (e.g. DN100 / 4"), then read across to get the flange OD (overall outside diameter), PCD (bolt circle diameter), number of bolt holes, hole diameter, and bolt size. To measure an existing flange in the field: measure the OD with a tape across the outside; measure the PCD as the distance from the centre of one bolt hole to the centre of the bolt hole directly opposite (or use the chord method for odd hole counts). Match all values against the standard chart to identify which standard the flange belongs to. What is a blind flange used for? A blind flange is a solid disc with the same OD, PCD, hole pattern and rating as the equivalent open flange — but with no pipe bore. It bolts to a mating flange to terminate the line, blank off a connection, or seal an equipment opening. Common uses: end-of-line termination on a header or manifold, future tie-in points designed into pipework for later expansion, equipment isolation blanks (when removing a valve or piece of equipment temporarily), pressure test endpoints (sealing line ends during hydrostatic testing), maintenance access blanks on tanks and large pipes, and spectacle blinds for positive isolation under LOTO procedures. A blind flange must match the mating flange's standard, rating and bolt pattern exactly. Slip-on vs weld neck — which is stronger? Weld neck flanges are stronger — approximately 100% of pipe strength, vs slip-on at approximately 70% of equivalent weld neck. The difference is in how the flange attaches to the pipe. Slip-on uses two fillet welds (one outside the flange, one inside), creating stress concentrations at the flange face. Weld neck uses a single critical butt weld at the tapered neck, with smooth bore transition and no stress concentration. Slip-on is cheaper and easier to install (forgiving alignment), but is not approved for sustained high-pressure or fatigue-critical service in most pressure-piping codes. Specify weld neck for ANSI Class 300+, AS 2129 Table H+, steam service, and any pressure-piping system designed to AS 4041 or ASME B31.3. Can I bolt AS 2129 Table D to AS 4087 PN16? No. Even though they're both Australian general-purpose flange ratings at similar pressure (Table D ~14 bar, PN16 = 16 bar), they have different bolt circle diameters (PCD) on most sizes. The bolt holes will NOT align between a Table D flange and a PN16 flange of the same nominal size. If you need to connect existing AS 2129 Table D pipework to AS 4087 PN16 equipment (or vice versa), you either need a transition spool with one Table D flange and one PN16 flange welded together, or you need to replace one of the flanges to match the other standard. Always identify both flange standards before assuming they'll bolt up. What gasket goes with a raised face flange? Raised face (RF) flanges are the default ANSI B16.5 configuration above Class 150 and pair with several gasket types depending on service: compressed fibre insertion gaskets for low-pressure non-critical service, PTFE for chemical service, spiral wound (CG/CGI) for medium-to-high pressure industrial process (the workshop default for most ANSI flange service), kammprofile/corrugated metal for high temperature, or ring-type joint (RTJ) for very high pressure oil and gas (Class 600+). The gasket OD must match the raised-face OD and the gasket must NOT extend into the bolt circle. For comprehensive gasket selection by service, see the AIMS Spiral Wound Gasket Guide. Never use a flat-face gasket on a raised face flange — the gasket will be over-compressed at the centre and under-compressed at the edges, causing leaks. How do I measure a flange to identify the standard? Five measurements identify a flange: (1) Flange overall diameter (OD) — measure across the outside with a tape; (2) Number of bolt holes — count them; (3) Pitch circle diameter (PCD) — measure centre-to-centre across opposite holes (or use the chord method for odd hole counts); (4) Hole diameter — use a calliper to measure one hole; (5) Bolt size — measure a bolt or compare against the hole diameter. Then match these against the standard charts (AS 2129 Tables D/E/H, AS 4087 PN16/21/35, ANSI B16.5 Class 150/300) until you find a match. If the OD looks like ANSI Class 150 at a given DN but the hole count is wrong, you may have an AS standard flange. Cross-checking against multiple standards is normal — flanges are not always marked. How many bolts does a 4-inch flange need? It depends on the standard. A DN100 / 4" flange has: AS 2129 Table D — 4 bolts; AS 2129 Table E — 8 bolts; AS 2129 Table H — 8 bolts; AS 4087 PN16 — 8 bolts; AS 4087 PN21 — 8 bolts; AS 4087 PN35 — 8 bolts; ANSI B16.5 Class 150 — 8 bolts; ANSI B16.5 Class 300 — 8 bolts. The 4-bolt Table D is the only standard 4-bolt DN100 flange in common use — all others use 8 bolts. This is one reason Table D and Table E flanges of the same nominal size are NOT interchangeable. Always verify the exact bolt count + PCD against the standard chart for the specification you're working to. What's the difference between threaded and slip-on flange? Threaded (screwed) flanges attach to the pipe via a BSP or NPT thread cut into the flange bore — the pipe is threaded with a matching male thread and screwed into the flange. Slip-on flanges attach via two fillet welds — the pipe slides through the flange bore and is welded both inside and outside the flange. Threaded is used where welding is impractical (galvanised pipe, where zinc would burn off; field installations without weld equipment; low-pressure non-hazardous service). Slip-on is used where welding is available and somewhat higher pressure is required. Slip-on is generally stronger than threaded for higher-pressure service. Threaded flanges are limited to small bore (typically 2" and below) and lower pressure ratings due to thread strength limitations. What is a backing flange? A backing flange (also called a lap joint backing flange or stub end backing flange) is a free-rotating flange used with a stub end. The stub end is butt-welded to the pipe; the backing flange slides freely over the stub end and rotates to align with the mating flange. Used in two main scenarios: (1) Stainless steel or expensive alloy lines where the flange is made of cheap carbon steel and the stub end is the expensive alloy — only the wetted stub end contacts the fluid; (2) Hole alignment headaches where the mating flange can't be rotated to align bolt holes — the backing flange rotates freely to suit. Backing flanges are typically rated at ~80% of equivalent weld neck due to the lap joint geometry. What does TTMA flange mean? TTMA stands for Tank Truck Manufacturers Association — a US standards body that publishes specifications for tank truck (road tanker) fittings and flange connections. TTMA flanges are flat-face, aluminium or stainless steel buttweld flanges with a specific bolt pattern used for tank truck manholes, fittings, valve mounts, and hose connections on road tankers. Common sizes are 3" and 4". AIMS stocks Dixon TTMA buttweld flanges in aluminium for tank truck applications. TTMA is not interchangeable with AS 2129, AS 4087 or ANSI B16.5 — it's a niche standard specific to tank truck and mobile equipment service. Need lang tools? Browse the AIMS range at lang tools. People Also Ask — Pipe Flanges Q: What is a pipe flange? A pipe flange is a disc, collar or ring that connects two pipe sections, or connects a pipe to a valve, pump or pressure vessel. Flanges allow piping systems to be assembled, disassembled and maintained without cutting pipe — they create a pressure-rated, bolted joint. The face type, bolt pattern, material and pressure class must match between mating flanges. Q: What is AS 2129 and which tables apply to Australian industrial pipework? AS 2129 is the Australian Standard for flanges for pipes, valves and fittings. It defines dimensions, bolt patterns and pressure ratings through a series of tables (Tables A through T) covering different pressure classes. Tables D and E are the most commonly used in general Australian industrial pipework. Always confirm the relevant table when specifying or ordering replacement flanges to ensure the bolt pattern and face dimensions match. Q: What is the difference between slip-on and weld neck flanges? A slip-on flange slides over the pipe end and is welded both inside and outside — it is easier to align and install but has lower fatigue resistance than a weld neck. A weld neck flange has an integral tapered hub butt-welded to the pipe — the hub distributes stress gradually into the pipe wall, making it the preferred choice for high-pressure, high-temperature and cyclic loading service. Weld neck flanges cost more but are the engineering standard for demanding applications. Q: Can AS 2129 and ANSI B16.5 flanges be mated in the same joint? Not without verifying compatibility on a case-by-case basis. While some dimensions overlap, bolt patterns, face dimensions and rated pressures differ between AS 2129 and ANSI B16.5. Mating flanges from different standards may appear to bolt together but will produce a joint that does not meet the rated pressure of either standard. Always confirm both mating flanges are from the same standard and the same pressure class before assembly. Q: What is a blind flange used for? A blind flange is a solid disc used to close the end of a pipe, vessel nozzle or valve. It carries no bore and is used to blank off lines for future extension, isolate sections of pipework, or serve as an inspection cover. Blind flanges must be rated for the full system pressure and their bolt pattern must match the open flange they are mating to.
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Spiral Wound Gasket Guide: Construction, Flange Standards, Colour Codes & Selection
Spiral wound gaskets are the workhorse sealing element for raised-face flange joints across Australian industry — water utilities, petrochem, mining process plant, refineries, food and pharma processing, pulp and paper, and power generation. They handle higher pressures and temperatures than fibre or rubber gaskets, recover well after thermal cycling, and are far more forgiving of small flange surface imperfections than solid metal gaskets. They also have specific rules around what flange faces they can be used on, which winding and filler materials suit which service, how to read the markings on the outer ring, and how to torque the bolts to seat them correctly. Get any of these wrong and you get a leak — usually at the worst possible time. This guide covers the construction, materials, ASME B16.20 colour code system, the AS 4087 / AS 2129 / ASME B16.5 flange standards used in Australia, flange face compatibility (with the safety warnings most spec sheets bury), installation torque, alternatives, and how to identify or specify a replacement. Need another reference chart? Browse the full AIMS Engineering Reference Charts library — drill bit sizes, tap drill, torque, viscosity, GD&T, AS/NZS standards and more. What is a spiral wound gasket? A spiral wound gasket — often abbreviated SWG in trade — is a flange gasket made by alternately winding a V-shaped or chevron-shaped metal strip with a softer filler material into a tight spiral. The metal strip provides mechanical strength and resilience; the filler provides the sealing surface that conforms to the flange face. The result is a semi-metallic gasket that combines the best properties of pure metal gaskets (strength, temperature resistance, recovery) and soft gaskets (conformability, low seating stress requirement). Spiral wound gaskets seal by being compressed between two flange faces — as the bolts are torqued, the metal winding compresses elastically and the soft filler is pushed into the surface roughness of the flange face, creating a continuous seal. SWGs are the default choice for medium-to-high pressure raised-face flange joints in industrial process piping. They handle pressures from vacuum to Class 2500 (~430 bar), temperatures from cryogenic to over 1,000°C with the right filler, and they recover better than solid graphite or fibre gaskets after the joint experiences thermal cycling, vibration or temporary loss of bolt load. AIMS stocks the AAP brand spiral wound gasket range — see our gaskets collection for the full lineup. How spiral wound gaskets are constructed A finished SWG looks like a flat metal washer with a coloured band around the outside and another band on the inside. Cross-section, it has up to four distinct elements: Winding strip — a V-shaped or chevron-profile metal strip, typically 304, 316, 316L stainless or higher alloys. The V-shape gives the spring action that lets the gasket recover after being compressed. Filler material — a soft, conformable strip wound alternately with the metal. Graphite, PTFE, mica, or ceramic depending on service. The filler is what actually seals against the flange face. Outer ring (centring ring) — a flat metal ring on the outside of the wound section. Centres the gasket on the flange, acts as a compression stop to prevent over-compression of the spiral, and carries the colour-code identification marks. Inner ring (compression-limiting ring) — an inner flat metal ring that fills the space between the spiral and the bore. Prevents inward buckling of the spiral under pressure, protects the filler from process fluid erosion, and reduces dead space in the joint. Standard SWGs are designated by their construction style: Style R — wound element only (no inner or outer ring). Used in male-female and tongue-and-groove flanges where the flange itself constrains the gasket. Style RIR — wound element plus outer ring. Common, but rarely specified now. Style CG (CGI) — wound element plus outer (centring) ring. The most common style for raised-face flanges. Sometimes written CGI for "with centring ring". Style CGI — wound element plus outer centring ring AND inner ring. The most robust style. Mandatory for high-pressure (Class 900+) and recommended for cyclic services. Modern ASME B16.20 specifies inner rings for Class 900 and above, and for all PTFE-filled gaskets. Inner ring vs outer ring — what each does This is one of the most common engineering questions about SWGs (it comes up repeatedly on Eng-Tips and similar forums): people see two metal rings and assume they're redundant. They are not — they do completely different jobs. The outer (centring) ring does three things: Centres the gasket between the bolt circle, so the wound element sits squarely on the raised face. Acts as a compression stop — when the bolts are torqued, the outer ring contacts the flange face once the spiral has compressed to the design thickness, preventing over-compression that would crush the spiral and destroy the recovery characteristic. Carries the identification colour code (winding strip colour on the outer edge, filler stripe colour on the face) — see the colour code section below. The inner ring does two things: Provides a barrier between the process fluid and the soft filler — particularly important for graphite filler in steam, hydrocarbon, or aggressive service where filler erosion would otherwise degrade the seal. Prevents inward buckling of the spiral under pressure differential. Without an inner ring, the wound element can collapse inward into the pipe bore at high pressure, deforming the gasket and causing leakage. Modern ASME B16.20 mandates inner rings for Class 900 flanges and above, for all flexible graphite filler in steel pipework, and for all PTFE-filled gaskets regardless of class. The trend in good engineering practice is to specify inner rings on most high-value or critical-service joints — they cost a little more and remove a major failure mode. Filler materials The filler material is what actually seals against the flange face. Selection is driven by service temperature, chemical compatibility, and pressure class. Filler Temperature range Service Notes Flexible graphite −240°C to +500°C (steam); +650°C in inert atmosphere Steam, hydrocarbons, hot oil, most general process service The most common filler. Excellent temperature range and recovery. Not suitable for strong oxidisers (nitric acid, concentrated sulphuric, hot air above 450°C). PTFE −240°C to +260°C Strong acids, caustics, food and pharma, oxidising chemicals Chemically inert against almost everything. Lower temperature ceiling than graphite. Cold flow under sustained load means inner ring is mandatory. Suitable for food and FDA-compliant grades available. Mica Up to +1,000°C High-temperature steam, exhaust, fired equipment Used where graphite oxidises — elevated temperature in oxidising atmosphere. More expensive than graphite. Less forgiving of vibration. Ceramic Up to +1,200°C Furnace, kiln, exhaust manifolds Specialty high-temperature service. Brittle compared to graphite — handle with care. Asbestos (legacy) — — Banned in Australia. If replacing an asbestos gasket on legacy plant, specify a non-asbestos equivalent — graphite for most service, mica or ceramic for above 500°C. Filler selection in seawater service is a frequent forum question. The standard answer: PTFE filler with 316L or higher winding (Inconel 625 for severe service). Graphite can suffer galvanic corrosion in chloride environments and is not recommended for sustained seawater contact. For desalination and offshore process work, PTFE-graphite blends or pure PTFE with metal-jacketed alternatives are the typical specification. Winding strip materials The winding strip carries the mechanical load and provides the elastic recovery. Material is selected for service temperature, corrosion resistance, and cost. Winding material Max temp Common use Carbon steel +500°C Low-cost general service. Limited corrosion resistance — only for non-corrosive dry process. 304 / 304L stainless +550°C General-purpose stainless. Common for water, steam, and mild process service. 316 / 316L stainless +550°C Better chloride resistance than 304. Standard for marine, chemical, and food service. The default upgrade from 304. 317L stainless +550°C Higher molybdenum than 316 — better resistance to pitting in chloride and acid service. Alloy 20 +550°C Sulphuric acid service. Monel 400 +540°C Hydrofluoric acid, salt water, and some caustics. Inconel 600 / 625 / X-750 +1,090°C High temperature, chloride stress corrosion resistance, high-pressure service. Hastelloy C-276 +1,090°C Severe chemical service — wet chlorine, oxidising acids, mixed-acid streams. Titanium +540°C Specialty corrosion service, particularly chlorinated environments. Should I upgrade 304 to 316? A common spec question. The answer is almost always yes if the service involves any chloride exposure (seawater, brackish water, chlorinated chemicals, hot tap water in some regions), or if the joint is in a marine atmosphere even when the process fluid itself is benign. The cost difference is small relative to a flange leak. 316L (low-carbon variant) is preferred for welded or stress-relieved applications to avoid sensitisation. ASME B16.20 colour code system SWGs to ASME B16.20 are colour-coded so that the winding material and filler can be identified visually without needing the original packaging. The code uses two colours: Outer ring solid colour band (around the edge) — identifies the winding strip material. Outer ring stripe colour (on the flat face) — identifies the filler material. Reference colours (per ASME B16.20): Element Colour Material Winding strip(outer ring band) Silver 304 stainless Yellow 316L stainless Maroon 317L stainless Olive Green Monel 400 Gold Inconel 600 Beige Hastelloy C-276 Filler(stripe colour on face) Grey Flexible graphite White PTFE Light Green Mica (Therma-Mica or similar) Pink Ceramic So a yellow band with a grey stripe = 316L winding with graphite filler. A silver band with a white stripe = 304 winding with PTFE filler. The combination, plus the size and pressure class stamped on the outer ring, fully identifies the gasket. This colour code is universal across ASME B16.20-compliant manufacturers. AS 4087 gaskets sold in Australia by major suppliers typically follow the same convention even though the standard does not formally require it. Flange standards: ASME B16.5 vs AS 4087 vs AS 2129 vs DIN vs JIS The single most important point about flange gaskets: a Class 150 ASME flange is not the same as a PN 16 AS 4087 flange, even at the same nominal size — see our Pipe Flange Guide for the complete bolt-pattern reference across AS 2129 Tables D/E/H, AS 4087 PN16/21/35 and ANSI Class 150/300/600. The bolt circle, gasket OD/ID, and bolt count are different. You cannot interchange gaskets between standards. Order to the standard your flange is built to, not to the nominal size alone. Standard Origin Typical use in AU Pressure designations ASME B16.5 (flanges)ASME B16.20 (metallic gaskets) USA Petrochem, oil and gas, refineries, large-scale process plant. Default for new petrochem builds. Class 150, 300, 600, 900, 1500, 2500 AS 4087 Australia Water industry — water utilities, water treatment, pump stations. WSAA-aligned. PN 14, PN 16, PN 21, PN 35 AS 2129 Australia (older) Legacy AU plant. Tables D, E, F, H, J — different pressure ratings. Still seen on older mining, pulp and paper, food plant. Tables D, E, F, H, J, K DIN EN 1092 Europe European-built equipment, some imports. PN 6, 10, 16, 25, 40, 63, 100 JIS B 2220 Japan Japanese-built equipment, mining and industrial imports. 5K, 10K, 16K, 20K, 30K, 40K In practice on Australian sites you'll commonly see AS 4087 on water service, ASME B16.5 on petrochem and gas, and AS 2129 hanging on from older installations. JIS and DIN appear on imported pumps, valves, and machinery. The OD, ID, bolt circle and number of bolts all change between standards — measure the existing gasket carefully and confirm the flange standard before ordering replacements. Pressure-temperature classes Pressure class defines the gasket's design pressure-temperature envelope, the bolt loading required to seat the gasket, and (for ASME) the construction style required. Standard Class Approx max pressure (cold) SWG style required ASME B16.20 Class 150 ~20 bar Style CG (no inner ring required, but recommended) Class 300 ~52 bar Style CG Class 600 ~104 bar Style CG (inner ring recommended) Class 900 ~155 bar Style CGI (inner ring mandatory) Class 1500 ~260 bar Style CGI Class 2500 ~430 bar Style CGI AS 4087 PN 14 ~14 bar Style CG typical PN 16 ~16 bar Style CG PN 21 ~21 bar Style CG PN 35 ~35 bar Style CGI recommended Pressure ratings reduce as temperature increases — a Class 150 carbon steel flange rated 20 bar at ambient is rated only ~14 bar at 200°C and ~10 bar at 400°C. Always check the flange rating curve in the relevant standard against your service conditions, not just the nominal class. Flange face compatibility This is where SWGs go wrong most often, and where forum threads (Eng-Tips, r/pipefitter) consistently warn against the wrong combinations. Flange face Correct gasket SWG suitable? Raised face (RF) Spiral wound (Style CG / CGI), or Kammprofile, or sheet ring gasket YES — this is what SWGs are designed for Flat face (FF) Full-face fibre, rubber, or PTFE gasket NO — see warning below Ring-type joint (RTJ) RTJ ring gasket only (oval or octagonal section, soft iron or stainless) NO — RTJ requires its own ring gasket type Tongue-and-groove (T&G) Style R SWG (no rings) or solid filler YES (Style R) Male-and-female (M&F) Style R SWG (no rings) YES (Style R) Warning: Never use a spiral wound gasket on a flat-face flange. SWGs are designed to seat on a raised-face flange where the gasket sits inside the bolt circle and is constrained by the centring ring. On a flat face, the spiral can extend past the flange edge under bolt load, fail to develop the correct seating stress, and leak — sometimes catastrophically. Pipefitter forum consensus: raised face gets a ring gasket; flat face gets a full face gasket. If you have a flat face flange, specify a full-face fibre, rubber, or PTFE gasket — not an SWG. Cast iron vs steel flange torque warning Warning: SWGs may crack cast iron flanges. Spiral wound gaskets require higher seating stress than soft fibre or rubber gaskets — typically 30–70 MPa across the gasket face. Cast iron pump bodies and valve flanges are not designed for that level of bolting load. The classic failure (well documented in pipefitter and r/pipefitter threads): a steel raised-face flange is bolted to a cast iron pump flange with an SWG between them. The steel side torques up fine; the cast iron flange cracks under the asymmetric load. Use a soft full-face gasket on cast iron pump flanges, not an SWG. If you must use an SWG (high-pressure or high-temperature service), confirm the cast iron flange rating allows the required bolt load — and torque to the lower of the two flange ratings. Installation and torque Correct installation is more important than gasket selection — a perfect gasket installed badly will leak. The procedure for spiral wound gaskets is: Clean both flange faces. Remove all old gasket residue, paint, scale, and corrosion. The sealing surface should be clean bare metal with no pits, scratches across the seal track, or radial scoring. A wire brush, scraper, and emery cloth are the standard kit. Do not use angle grinders — they leave radial scoring that creates leak paths. Inspect the flange face. Confirm the surface finish is suitable for SWG seating — typically 3.2 to 6.3 µm Ra (concentric or phonographic finish per ASME B16.5). Damaged or scored faces must be re-machined before fitting an SWG. Centre the gasket. The outer centring ring should sit within the bolt circle, not over the bolts. Confirm the inner ring (if fitted) does not protrude into the pipe bore — it should match the flange ID. Lubricate the bolt threads and the underside of the nuts with a copper anti-seize compound or molybdenum disulphide grease. Do not apply anti-seize to the flange face or the gasket itself — it reduces friction at the seal and can cause the gasket to spin under load. Hand-tighten all bolts to ensure the gasket is snug and centred, then begin torque sequence. Apply torque in a cross (star) pattern in 3 to 5 progressive passes. Typical sequence: 30%, 60%, 100% of target torque, then a final pass at 100% in clockwise rotation to even out load. For Class 600 and above, more passes (4-5) are recommended. Re-torque after 24 hours of service for graphite-filled gaskets, and after the first thermal cycle for high-temperature service. Both filler and bolt experience some relaxation that needs to be made up. Bolt torque values must come from the flange / bolt / gasket combination — there is no single torque table that fits all SWGs. Use the gasket manufacturer's torque table for the specific gasket / bolt grade / flange combination, or calculate from the gasket seating stress (typically y = 30 N/mm² and m = 3.0 for spiral wound graphite, per ASME PCC-1). Use a calibrated torque wrench — see our Torque Wrench Guide for selection and our Torque Wrench Calibration Guide for accuracy intervals. Anti-seize tip from the trade: Apply Never-Seize or copper anti-seize to bolt threads and under nuts only — NOT to the gasket face or flange face. Anti-seize on the seal surface reduces friction, allows the gasket to spin under load, and creates a leak path. The anti-seize on threads and nuts makes future disassembly straightforward without damaging studs. Spiral wound vs alternatives Not every flange joint needs an SWG. Selection depends on pressure, temperature, service, and flange face type. Gasket type Best for Limits Spiral wound (SWG) Medium-to-high pressure raised-face flanges, thermal cycling, vibration Cannot use on flat face. Higher seating stress than soft gaskets. Kammprofile (grooved metal core with soft facing) Higher integrity than SWG. Heat exchangers, critical services. Reusable in some cases. More expensive than SWG. Specific surface finish requirements. Metal-jacketed Heat exchanger tube sheets, narrow gasket spaces Single-use. Lower recovery than SWG. Sheet (compressed fibre, PTFE, rubber) Low pressure, flat-face flanges, water and air service Lower temperature and pressure ceiling. AAP compressed fibre and rubber sheet gaskets cover this in the AIMS range. RTJ (ring-type joint) High pressure (Class 900+), API 6A wellheads, RTJ-grooved flanges only Solid metal — needs perfect groove condition. Cannot use on RF or FF flanges. Liquid gasket / form-in-place Low-pressure flat-face flanges where access is awkward, gearbox covers, oil pans Limited temperature and pressure. See our RTV Silicone Gasket Maker Guide for the field of use. Common applications and industries Spiral wound gaskets appear in nearly every industrial sector that uses flanged piping. Typical Australian applications include: Water utilities and water treatment — AS 4087 PN 16 / PN 21 SWGs on water mains, valve stations, and pump houses. 304 winding with graphite filler is the default; 316 winding for chlorinated or coastal service. Petrochem, oil and gas — ASME B16.20 Class 150 to Class 2500 SWGs on process piping, refinery columns, separators, gas plant. 316L winding with graphite filler dominates; specialty alloys (Inconel, Hastelloy) for severe service. Mining process plant — slurry, leach, flotation circuits. SWGs on tank flanges, pump connections, valve flanges. Often AS 2129 Tables E or F on legacy plant. Heat exchangers — SWGs on shell flanges, channel covers, manholes. Increasingly Kammprofile in newer designs for higher integrity. Power generation — steam piping, condensers, feedwater heaters. Graphite filler standard for steam service. Pulp and paper — black liquor, white liquor, condensate. 316L or higher alloys due to corrosive process. Food, beverage and pharma — PTFE filler with 316L winding. FDA-compliant grades available. Hygienic clamp connections often use EPDM or silicone gaskets instead. How to identify, specify or order a replacement If you have a leaking flange and need a replacement SWG, here is what to measure and confirm before ordering. Flange standard — ASME B16.5? AS 4087? AS 2129 (which Table)? DIN? JIS? This is the single most important piece of information. Check the flange stamping if visible, the original equipment data sheet, or the P&ID. Nominal pipe size (NPS / DN) — the pipe size, e.g. 100 NB, DN 150, 4-inch. Pressure class — Class 150 / 300 / 600 etc. for ASME, or PN 14 / 16 / 21 / 35 for AS 4087, or Table D / E / F / H / J for AS 2129. Flange face type — raised face, flat face, RTJ, tongue-and-groove, or male-and-female. Gasket OD and ID — measure the existing gasket if you have it. Check it against the flange standard table. Service conditions — fluid (water, steam, hydrocarbon, acid, etc.), temperature, pressure. Drives filler and winding selection. Existing markings — the colour code on the outer ring (winding band colour + filler stripe colour), any size and pressure class stamped on the outer ring, and any manufacturer markings. For a complete spec, send AIMS the above plus a photo of the existing gasket (front and edge — the colour code and stamping should be visible) and a photo of the flange face if you can. We can confirm the right replacement and stock or source it. Spiral wound gaskets at AIMS Industrial AIMS stocks the AAP brand spiral wound gasket range plus a complete line of insertion gaskets, fibre gaskets, rubber gaskets, and clamp gaskets. Highlights: AAP Insertion Gasket — Spiral Wound — multiple sizes for AS 4087 and AS 2129 flanges, 316 winding with graphite filler. AAP Insertion Gasket — Compressed Fibre Table-E and Table-D — soft gaskets for low-pressure flat-face flanges and water service. AAP Insertion Gasket — Natural Rubber Table-E — for water service on legacy AS 2129 flanges. Dixon EPDM and FKM clamp gaskets — for tri-clover and hygienic clamp connections. For sizes, materials, or pressure classes we don't show online — including ASME B16.20 Class 600+, specialty alloys (Inconel, Hastelloy), or large-bore sizes — call us on (02) 9773 0122 or use our contact page. Bring the photos and we will work out what you need. Frequently Asked Questions What is a spiral wound gasket used for? Spiral wound gaskets are used to seal raised-face flange joints in process piping, particularly where pressure is medium to high (above Class 150), temperature is elevated, or the joint experiences thermal cycling or vibration. They are the default gasket choice for petrochem, oil and gas, refining, water utilities at PN 16 and above, mining process plant, heat exchangers, and power generation. They handle vacuum to Class 2500 (~430 bar) and cryogenic to over 1,000°C with the right filler material. How do you read the colour code on a spiral wound gasket? ASME B16.20 colour code uses two colours on the outer (centring) ring. The solid band of colour around the edge identifies the winding strip material — silver for 304 stainless, yellow for 316L, gold for Inconel 600, beige for Hastelloy C-276. The stripe colour painted on the face identifies the filler — grey for flexible graphite, white for PTFE, light green for mica, pink for ceramic. So a yellow band with a grey stripe means 316L winding with graphite filler. The size and pressure class are stamped on the outer ring face. Can I use a spiral wound gasket on a flat face flange? No. Spiral wound gaskets are designed for raised-face flanges where the gasket sits inside the bolt circle and is constrained by the centring ring. On a flat face flange the spiral can extend past the flange edge under bolting load, fail to develop the correct seating stress, and leak. Use a full-face fibre, rubber, or PTFE gasket on flat face flanges. The pipefitter trade rule: raised face gets a ring gasket, flat face gets a full face gasket. What is the difference between the inner and outer rings of a spiral wound gasket? The outer (centring) ring centres the gasket on the flange, acts as a compression stop preventing over-compression of the spiral, and carries the colour-code identification marks. The inner ring sits between the spiral and the pipe bore — it stops the spiral buckling inward under pressure, protects the soft filler from process fluid erosion, and reduces dead space at the joint. Both rings do different jobs and are not interchangeable. Modern ASME B16.20 mandates inner rings for Class 900 and above, all PTFE-filled gaskets, and graphite-filled gaskets in steel pipework. What's the difference between a spiral wound gasket and a Kammprofile gasket? A spiral wound gasket has a wound metal-and-filler spiral with rings. A Kammprofile (or grooved metal) gasket has a solid metal core with concentric grooves on each face, and a soft facing (graphite or PTFE) bonded to each side. Kammprofile gaskets are more robust, recover better, and tolerate higher loads than SWGs — but they cost more and need a specific flange surface finish. They are commonly used on heat exchangers and critical service flanges where reliability is paramount. SWGs are the cheaper general-purpose choice for most flange joints. Should I use 304 or 316 stainless winding for my application? Use 316 (or 316L) if there is any chloride exposure — seawater, brackish water, chlorinated process fluids, marine atmosphere, or coastal location. Use 304 only for non-chloride service (steam, hot oil, freshwater, dry gas). The cost difference between 304 and 316 is small relative to the cost of a flange leak. 316L (low-carbon variant) is preferred for welded or stress-relieved fabrication to avoid sensitisation. For severe chloride or acid service, upgrade further to 317L, Inconel, Monel, or Hastelloy depending on the chemistry. What filler material should I use for high-temperature service? Flexible graphite is the default up to about 500°C in steam or 650°C in inert atmospheres. Above that, or in oxidising atmospheres above 450°C where graphite oxidises, use mica filler — good to 1,000°C. For furnace, kiln, and exhaust manifold service above 1,000°C, ceramic filler is the option. Match the winding strip to the temperature too — Inconel 600 or 625 winding for service above 550°C. What is ASME B16.20? ASME B16.20 is the American standard "Metallic Gaskets for Pipe Flanges". It defines the construction, materials, dimensions, marking, and colour-coding of metallic and semi-metallic gaskets — including spiral wound, ring joint, and Kammprofile gaskets — for use with ASME B16.5 raised-face flanges. It is the dominant standard for petrochem, oil and gas, and refining service worldwide. AS 4087 and AS 2129 gaskets sold in Australia typically follow the same colour code convention even though it is not formally part of those standards. What is the difference between AS 4087 and ASME B16.5 flange standards? They are completely different standards with different bolt circles, gasket dimensions, and pressure designations. AS 4087 uses PN 14 / 16 / 21 / 35 pressure ratings and is used in Australian water utilities and water treatment. ASME B16.5 uses Class 150 / 300 / 600 / 900 / 1500 / 2500 and is the international standard for petrochem, oil and gas, and most large-scale process plant. Gaskets are NOT interchangeable between the standards even at the same nominal pipe size — order to the standard your flange is built to, never assume they match. Can I use a spiral wound gasket on a cast iron flange? With caution. Spiral wound gaskets require higher seating stress than soft gaskets — typically 30 to 70 MPa. Cast iron pump bodies and valve flanges may not tolerate that bolt load and can crack under the asymmetric stress when the steel side of the joint torques up against them. The standard pipefitter advice is to use a soft full-face fibre or rubber gasket on cast iron pump flanges. If pressure or temperature requires an SWG, confirm the cast iron flange rating supports the required bolt load and torque to the lower-rated side of the joint. How do I torque the bolts when installing a spiral wound gasket? Use a calibrated torque wrench. Apply lubricant to the bolt threads and under the nuts, but not to the flange face or gasket itself. Hand-tighten all bolts first, then apply torque in a cross (star) pattern in three to five progressive passes — typically 30 percent, 60 percent, 100 percent of target torque, with a final clockwise rotational pass at 100 percent to even out load. Re-torque after 24 hours of service, and after the first thermal cycle for high-temperature applications. Bolt torque values come from the gasket manufacturer's table for your specific gasket, bolt grade, and flange combination — there is no single torque value for "all SWGs". Are spiral wound gaskets reusable? No. Spiral wound gaskets are single-use. Once compressed, the soft filler has flowed into the surface roughness of the flange face and the spiral has lost some of its elastic recovery. Reusing a compressed SWG is a near-certain leak path. Always replace the gasket whenever the flange is broken, even if the gasket looks intact. Kammprofile and metal-jacketed gaskets have similar one-use rules with rare exceptions. What does "CG" or "CGI" mean on a spiral wound gasket? CG indicates a spiral wound gasket with an outer (centring) ring only. CGI indicates the same gasket but with both outer centring ring and inner ring. CGI is mandatory for ASME B16.20 Class 900 and above, for all PTFE-filled gaskets regardless of class, and for flexible graphite filler in steel pipework. Style R is the wound element only with no rings, used in tongue-and-groove and male-female flanges where the flange itself constrains the gasket. What's the maximum temperature a spiral wound gasket can handle? It depends on both the winding strip and the filler. With Inconel 600 winding and ceramic filler the gasket can handle over 1,000°C — furnace and kiln duty. With 316L winding and graphite filler the practical ceiling is around 500°C in steam or 650°C in inert atmospheres. Standard 304 stainless winding with graphite filler is good for around 500°C. Above 450°C in an oxidising atmosphere graphite filler oxidises away, so mica filler is needed. How do I order a replacement spiral wound gasket from AIMS? Send us the flange standard (ASME B16.5, AS 4087, AS 2129, etc.), nominal pipe size, pressure class (Class 150, PN 16, Table E, etc.), flange face type (raised face, flat face, RTJ), and the service conditions (fluid, temperature, pressure). Photos of the existing gasket front and edge — showing colour code and any stampings — and of the flange face are extremely helpful. We will confirm the right replacement and stock or source it. Contact AIMS via our contact page or call (02) 9773 0122. For BSP vs NPT vs UNC differences and the right thread standard for your job, see our Thread Standards Guide. AIMS Industrial stocks lang tools — see the full range for trade and industrial use. 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