Joining, flanges and sealing

Blind flange

Closing a line end or providing positive isolation

Specialist selection guide

What should be reviewed before selecting this product?

A blind flange closes a line end or nozzle without a bore and carries full pressure as a plate in bending. At large size and high class, weight, bolt load, removal space and handling method become major considerations.

Technical selection path

  1. 1

    Match size, class and facing to the mating flange

  2. 2

    Check material grade and pressure-temperature range

  3. 3

    Select gasket and bolting for the facing

  4. 4

    Plan weight and lifting method

  5. 5

    Specify vent, drain or instrument tapping needs

Key strengths

  • Dependable line-end closure
  • Removable for inspection or future extension
  • Compatibility with standard flanged joints

Selection limitations

  • High weight at large size and class
  • Needs removal space and handling tools
  • Trapped pressure must be relieved before opening

Typical applications

Where can this option be considered?

  • Temporary or permanent line ends
  • Spare equipment nozzles
  • Periodic inspection access

Reference standards

A standard does not replace the project specification

Common technical questions

Concise answers before enquiry

Can a blind flange be opened under pressure?

No. The line must be positively isolated, depressurised, drained and verified under an approved safe-work procedure.

Is a blind flange as thick as a weld-neck flange?

Not necessarily. A blind has no central bore and has its own standard dimensions based on plate-bending duty.

Primary purpose

Closing a line end or providing positive isolation

Best suited to

Line ends, future tie-ins, testing or maintenance

Selection watchpoint

Trapped pressure, venting, safe removal procedure and wall thickness

Initial review sheet

Technical attributes to review

Final values must come from project specifications, calculations and manufacturer data. This table defines the information scope.

FamilyIndustrial flanges
Main groupJoining, flanges and sealing
Materials to evaluateCarbon steel, Stainless steel, Alloy steel, Low-temperature steel
Connections to evaluateWelded, Threaded, Socket, Loose/lap
Typical mediaAll piping services
Relevant industriesOil and gas, Refining, Petrochemical, Power generation, Water and utilities
Reference standardsASME B16.5 · ASME B16.47 · ASME B16.36 · API 6A · EN 1092-1 · BS 10

Enquiry checklist

Include this information with your request

1

Standard and class

2

Nominal size

3

Facing

4

Material and grade

5

Pipe schedule

6

Drilling and dimensions

Before substitution

A matching name does not guarantee interchangeability

Installation dimensions, pressure rating, wetted materials, sealing design, construction standard, testing and documentation must be checked independently.

Read technical guides

Adjacent types

Other options in this family

Final technical approval is required

This page is educational and intended for initial screening. Final selection must be approved against project requirements, actual service conditions and manufacturer documentation.

Send request for review