FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
As it relates to IPP DELTAFLEX® pipe flanges, it refers to their unique cross sectional shape which differs significantly from the traditional rectangular cross sectional shape of pipe flanges.
Yes. ANSI piping codes allow national pipe flange standards such as ANSI B16.5, B16.47, B16.1, etc. to allow for design and usage of non-standardized pipe flanges by using the input criteria for pipe flange design per the Pressure Vessel Code, Section VIII, Div. 1, Appendix 2.
However, should the shape of a flange look like IPP’s convoluted design, then the offered calculation formulae in Appendix 2 are not applicable. Paragraph UG 101 of the P & V Code, Sec.VIII, Div.1, allows for additional means of qualifying a unique pipe flange for code controlled piping systems.
The stress levels in the conventional flange are extremely low. Finite element proves this. When the national standards for pipe flanges were established nearly 100 years ago, flanges were sold on the basis of $/ton. Energy and resources were cheap. Curved beam theory as well as sophisticated calculation methods were not yet known. With the advent of the PC and software packages to evaluate structural elements, savings could be offered in many ways.
Like in an I-beam, the ability to carry loads with less weight is being practiced. The mass removal underneath the bolt hole circle and a slight increase in section height leads to an intelligent design. IPP simply removed the material that was not being utilized.
The benefits result from its net shape and the ability to employ near-net-shape production methods. Lighter weight, less energy and less material to produce, less energy to transport, increased stocking value per square foot, reduced support structures, easier handling, lower seismic forces to constrain. A less rigid structure with better spring characteristics. It is an all around superior design. We consider it to be the flange of the future. Do not let existing standards and codes keep you from using this high-strength-to-low-weight ratio pipe flange. It addresses itself to all the aspects of designing; functional, safe and economic.
ASME neither accepts or rejects convoluted flanges. It leaves the responsibility of acceptance to the piping engineer. The engineer is under no pressure or mandatory obligation to use flanges from the national standards, but he does lean toward the employment of these pipe flange standards to improve his own productivity while employing a mass produced piping component.
ASTM tests and standardizes materials leading to specifications. It defines the chemistry, the mechanical properties, and many other aspects for conformity. It establishes guidelines for the purchaser and seller of the material from which products are being made. IPP observes these ASTM material standards or specifications and identifies them permanently on all of its flanges.
It has been on the market In Europe since 1972 and in the USA and Canada since 1975 in various shapes and types as stampings from plate materials in carbon and stainless steel materials.
Patents were issued to Mr. Wilhem Schulz, Krefeld, Germany around 1972. Gunter Schlicht of Syspac, Inc., Orinda, Ca. USA was the USA/CANADA licensee for same.
The license arrangements were made available to Improved Piping Products, Inc. in 1979. In 1997 Gunter Schlicht, of IPP Inc. received additional patents for further convoluted pipe flange improvements.
The IPP DELTAFLEX® Pipe Flanges are patented. They offer further performance improvements over the old patent-expired version. Since IPP maintains a full time engineering staff as well as a full time stress analyst, it contributes through this exceptional effort to the piping industry product performance assurances in terms of pressure/temperature ratings, safety factors, etc.
In order to assure you get the real thing, specify IPP DELTALFEX® flanges or back-up rings and reject anyone who claims savings but can’t support its engineering. Obviously, copying is much cheaper but from where does one know whether the copy is a patent protected one? Savings and safety demand documentary evidence. IPP DELTAFLEX® flanges provide that.
No.
Ductile Iron, ASTM A536 Gr. 65/45/12
Stainless steel ASTM A351 CF8M,CF8, CF3M and CF3
This must be evaluated as to what flange type is under comparison review. Consult our dimensional tables. While all vital dimensions agree for mateablility, longer bolts sometimes may be required.
Yes. Bechtel, Fluor Daniel, Kvaerner, H.A. Simons, ...and the list goes on. We will be specific upon inquiry. Jobs are located in the USA, Canada, Chile, Peru, Venezuela, Papua New Guinea, China, Phillipines, etc.etc.
No, in spite of millions of flanges installed around the world.
Most of our standard IPP DELTAFLEX® flanges have been designed to suit the ANSI B16.5 Class 150 pressure classification (275 psi operating pressure). However, many systems have been designed for higher pressures. The highest pressure to date has been Class 400 flanges, ( 990 psi operating pressure), 20" and 34" in size for tailings lines.
We see a limitation by code set at 1000 psi operating pressure for ductile iron materials. Our largest steel pipe tailings line flange system is 48" in diameter.
1/2" through 64" to suit nominal pipe size.
Yes, this is our specialty. We have the engineering talent in-house to do so.
Of course, several millions for worldwide installations.