Stainless blind flanges are solid discs used to close the end of a pipe, vessel, or valve. They are commonly used in piping systems for various purposes, including pressure testing, blocking off a pipeline, or providing a blank-off point for future expansions. Here’s an overview of stainless blind flanges:

1. Design: Blind flanges have a solid, flat disc shape with no bore or opening in the center. They typically have bolt holes drilled around the perimeter for bolting to the mating flange or equipment. The face of the blind flange can be flat or raised, depending on the sealing requirements of the application.

2. Material: Like other stainless steel flanges, blind flanges are made from stainless steel alloys, offering excellent corrosion resistance and durability. Common stainless steel grades used for blind flanges include 304/304L, 316/316L, and 316Ti.

3. Raised Face: Most blind flanges have a raised face on the flange’s sealing surface. This raised face provides a smooth, flat mating surface for the gasket, improving sealing performance and reducing the risk of leakage. However, flat face blind flanges are also available for specific applications where a raised face is not required.

4. Bolt Holes: Blind flanges have bolt holes drilled around the perimeter for bolting to the mating flange or equipment. These bolt holes are typically drilled according to industry standards such as ANSI/ASME B16.5 or EN 1092-1 and are sized and spaced to accommodate standard flange bolts.

5. Sizes and Ratings: Blind flanges are available in a wide range of sizes and pressure ratings to suit various piping system requirements. They can range from small diameters for residential applications to large diameters for industrial processes. Pressure ratings typically conform to standards such as ANSI/ASME B16.5 or EN 1092-1 and are expressed in classes or pressure-temperature ratings.

6. Applications: Blind flanges are used in a variety of applications in piping systems. They are commonly used for pressure testing pipelines, closing off the ends of pipelines or vessels, providing a blank-off point for future expansions or connections, and as covers for access openings in equipment or vessels. Industries such as oil and gas, petrochemical, chemical processing, power generation, and water treatment frequently utilize blind flanges for their versatility and reliability.

When selecting stainless blind flanges for a piping system, it’s important to consider factors such as the application requirements, pressure and temperature conditions, material compatibility, and applicable standards to ensure proper performance and reliability. Additionally, proper installation techniques and gasket selection should be followed to ensure a tight and leak-free seal.