ANSI/ASME B16.48 Ring Spacer Flange

What is Ring Spacer Flange?

A ring spacer flange, commonly referred to as a spectacle blind flange, is a distinctive and vital component employed in industrial piping systems. This specialized flange consists of two integral elements: the solid plate, known as the "spade," and the flat plate featuring an opening, termed the "spacer." When integrated into a pipeline, these components are strategically positioned between two standard flanges.

The primary purpose of a ring spacer flange is to provide temporary isolation or controlled separation in a piping system. The solid spade blocks the flow of fluid, acting as a blind, while the spacer, with its opening, allows fluid flow when aligned with the pipe. This design offers flexibility in managing pipelines, allowing for isolation during maintenance, testing, or repairs without shutting down the entire system.

Key features and uses of Ring Spacer Flanges:

1. Isolation and Control:

   • Ring spacer flanges are employed to isolate or control fluid flow temporarily in a piping system.

2. Dual Component Design:

   • Comprises a solid spade and a flat spacer, both integral to its functionality.

3. Installation Position:

   • Positioned between two conventional flanges within the pipeline.

4. Versatility in Applications:

   • Widely utilized across various industries, including oil and gas, petrochemicals, chemical processing, and water treatment.

5. Maintenance and Repairs:

   • Facilitates maintenance, inspections, or repairs by providing controlled isolation without the need for a complete system shutdown.

6. Temporary Flow Blockage:

   • The spade ensures a complete blockage, preventing fluid passage when necessary.

7. Flexibility in Pipeline Management:

   • Enables flexibility in managing pipelines, especially in scenarios requiring periodic isolation.

8. Fluid Flow Alignment:

   • The spacer, when rotated into the correct position, permits fluid flow through the pipeline.

9. Alternative Terminology:

   • Also known as spectacle blind flange, spade and spacer flange, or paddle blind flange.

Components of A Ring Spacer Flanged Joint Are?

Ring Spacer Flange:

The ring spacer flange itself is the primary component, consisting of two essential parts: the solid plate or spade and the flat plate with an opening or spacer. This specialized flange is positioned between two standard flanges in a piping system.

Spade

The spade is the solid plate component of the ring spacer flange. It acts as a complete blockage, preventing the flow of fluids through the pipeline when the flange is in the closed position. The spade provides temporary isolation or shut-off capability.

Spacer

The spacer is the flat plate with an opening, allowing fluid flow when properly aligned with the pipe. This component contrasts with the spade and introduces flexibility by enabling controlled separation or isolation within the piping system. The spacer facilitates the opening or closing of the flanged joint to manage fluid flow.