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When Are Aluminum Flanges Preferred?

As the name suggests, an aluminum flange is constructed of aluminum metal. This type of flange is often preferred in certain types of systems, because it is more lightweight than other types of flanges, including steel flanges of the same size. There are also numerous other benefits associated with using aluminum flanges compared to flanges constructed of other types of metal. Beyond the lightweight property of this type of flange, it is also less expensive due to lower material and production costs.  

The Benefits of Aluminum Flanges

The time required to produce an aluminum flange is often much shorter than the time required to produce other types of flanges, including stainless steel flanges. An aluminum flange can also be manufactured to any required size. In deciding which type of flange to use for a specific application, a number of factors may come into play, including costs, production times, weight, and strength. 

In terms of size, there is typically no difference between various types of metal flanges. It usually the application itself that determines whether an aluminum flange would be appropriate or not. For instance, in situations in which the flange may be exposed to highly corrosive materials, such as in a plumbing application, then an aluminum flange is often not an ideal choice. Instead, a stainless steel flange, which offers greater resistance properties, would typically be used.  

Why Might an Aluminum Flange Fail?

As is the case with any other type of flange, it is important to note that while aluminum flanges do offer a number of benefits, they are also capable of failing for a number of reasons. In the event that an aluminum flange should fail and require repair, the same steps would typically be required as when repairing any other type of flange, including stainless steel flanges. This usually involves re-machining or welding the flange. In some instances, depending on the severity of the failure, it may be necessary to simply replace the flange. In choosing an aluminum flange, it is vital to ensure that a quality aluminum flange manufacturer in Pennsylvania or New Jersey is selected, as flaws related to defects in the metal or incorrect manufacturing can result in flange failure. 

Why Should You Choose to Buy Your Metal Supply Online

Whether it's for a project around your own home, a project for a client, or metal supplies for your industrial facility, it's important to have a reliable metal supply resource. Opting to buy your metal supply online can present a number of important advantages compared to buying locally.  

Difficult-to-Find Metals Readily Available

While there might be any number of metal supply vendors located throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey, not all local suppliers will have everything that you need. If you happen to be in a rush to receive much-needed materials to complete a job, that can be a problem. When buying online, however, you will typically have access to a much larger selection of materials. In fact, you will generally find it much easier to source even difficult-to-find metal supplies online.  

Value-Added Services Offered

A local metal supply vendor may also not provide many of the services that you need to ensure that you have just the right metal supplies for your job specifications. By comparison, an online metal supply company will often provide value-added services to ensure that you always receive exactly what you want.  

Emergency and Rush Services

If you happen to be in a hurry to receive your order, it's usually possible to request an emergency or rush order, depending upon the metal supply firm you choose. Not all firms offer this service, so it is important to check, but if emergency or rush service is available, you can set aside worries over not having the materials you need on time.  

No Minimum Order for a Metal Supply Online Order

You may also be able to order the metal supplies you need without having to place a minimum order. This can be great for situations in which you only need a small amount of a specific type of metal in order to complete a job, and do not want to spend money ordering more than you actually need. 

With a wide range of different types of metals available, including those sourced domestically and imported, an online metal supply vendor can be an excellent choice for all of your metal supply needs. 

What You Should Know When Choosing Carbon Steel Fittings

Among the first things to think about when choosing carbon steel fittings is what is actually involved in the production of these types of fittings. Carbon steel fittings are comprised of an alloy of steel and carbon, which is then cast or forged in a manner that allows no seams, which would otherwise cause the fitting to weaken.  

Different Types of Carbon Steel Fittings

Carbon steel refers to steel that is classified based on the amount of carbon that has been mixed with iron, the base element. Consequently, there are actually various types of carbon steel. Ultra-high carbon steel contains between 1 percent and 2 percent carbon, while high carbon steel contains less than .99 percent carbon. Medium carbon stain is comprised of between .30 and .59 percent carbon and low carbon steel contains between .16 and .29 percent carbon. Mild carbon steel contains .15 percent or less carbon. Generally, as the amount of carbon in carbon steel increases, the strength of the steel increases. With that said, however, it should also be understood that the higher the carbon percentage, the lower the ductility of the carbon steel.  

Various sizes of carbon steel fittings are also available. Those with a diameter of less than 2 ½ inches are typically threaded. Carbon steel fittings such as caps, threaded elbows, and flanges are also available.  

The Benefits of Carbon Steel Fittings

Carbon steel fittings do offer a number of important benefits, including their tremendous shock resistance. One of the reasons that carbon steel fittings are often preferred for jobs in Pennsylvania and New Jersey is that they are capable of withstanding tremendous vibrations and shocks.  

Additionally, carbon steel fittings offer the benefit of increased safety. With some materials, it is necessary to treat the fittings with other materials for protection. Unfortunately, this can also make the parts more hazardous to handle. This is not necessity with carbon steel fittings, which make them safer and easier to work with. 

Greater tensile strength is another important advantage of carbon steel fittings. Carbon steel is capable of enduring a significant amount of pressure. Over time, this makes carbon steel fittings far more cost effective than other types of fittings. 

What to Consider When Choosing an Online Metal Supply

In choosing an online metal supply in Pennsylvania or New Jersey, a number of factors should be taken into consideration.

One of the most important factors to consider is whether the online metal supply is able to accommodate emergency or rush orders. Not all vendors are able to provide this type of service, which could seriously impact your ability to complete your project on time.

Along with a fast turnaround on shipping, it is also important to determine whether the online metal supply you are considering using requires a minimum order. This is actually fairly common in the industry, but that does not mean you have to settle for purchasing more than you actually need in order to meet a minimum order.

Naturally, you want to ensure that when your order is shipped, it is done so in a manner that will guarantee safe delivery. Professional packaging and crating should be absolutely assured when selecting an online metal supply.

Keep in mind that not all online metal supply companies have access to everything you need. In order to meet your specific job requirements, it's vital that you choose a company that will have access to everything you need, including not only domestic materials but also imported materials. Hard-to-find materials that some online metal supply companies may not carry include chrome bar, metric metal, metric fasteners, custom gaskets, and stainless steel diamond plate.

Consider, as well, whether the company provides any type of value-added services, such as plasma cutting, laser cutting, powercoating and painting, shear cutting, bending and forming, polishing, drilling, and plate and angle rolling. These types of value-added services can help to save you a tremendous amount of time and hassle if they are provided by the metal supply company you choose to use.

What types of products and shapes does the company offer? A good selection of products and shapes should include fasteners, grating, perforated sheet, seamless tubing, valves, fittings, pipe, diamond tread plate, round bar, wire cloth, flanges, specialty products, rebar, and embossed sheet.

Choosing the right online metal supply is vital to ensuring that your job is completed per specifications, on time, and on budget.

Understanding the World of Stainless Steel Flanges

Many different types of stainless steel flanges are used in the industry, particularly in piping systems. Preferred for their resistance to rust, stainless steel flanges are also incredibly strong and capable of outperforming other types of flanges, including carbon steel flanges. Additionally, they offer a greater degree of corrosion resistance than aluminum flanges. This can be particularly important in a number of industrial applications, particularly those in which the flange could be exposed to water and/or chemicals.

 Aluminum is generally softer than steel, and when placed under heavy stress, it could fail. By comparison, a stainless steel flange will not fail when placed under even extreme stress. This degree of reliability makes a stainless steel flange the preferred choice for a number of different industrial applications. When searching for a flange for projects in Pennsylvania or New Jersey, you should consider that while other types of flanges are available, stainless steel flanges are generally the most popular due to their inherent strength and durability. A stainless steel flange will ensure that failure due to corrosion is never a concern.

 Sizing and Standards for Stainless Steel Flanges

The size of the flange chosen will often vary based on how it will be used. Standard sizes are specified by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) or the American Society of Engineers (ASME). Most types of metal flanges will fall under either ASME or ANSI regulations, making it easy to replace a flange constructed of a different material with a stainless steel flange, when necessary. It should be noted that ANSI flanges are designed under certain standards, while ASME flanges are required to meet other standards. Such standards are intended to ensure that flange design remains consistent, and will be capable of withstanding certain environments and applications. In choosing a stainless steel flange for a specific application, it is important to determine whether the flange to be replaced was required to meet ANSI or ASME standards.

Compared to other types of metal flanges, a stainless steel flange may have a higher initial cost. Still, considering the greater strength and durability offered by a stainless steel flange, it is considered a solid investment compared to other types of metal flanges.

Tips on Choosing the Right Metal Supply Online

Regardless of where you may be located in Pennsylvania or New Jersey, it's important to find the right metal supply online that is able to meet all of your requirements. Taking all of the following factors into consideration can help ensure that you find a metal supply company capable of providing everything you need. 


Among the first factors to be considered when choosing a metal supply online is location. Ordering online makes it possible to source materials regardless of where you are located, however, an online metal supply that is also located in your general vicinity will make it much easier to accommodate rush and emergency orders.


Additionally, you need to determine whether the company you select is capable of handling all of your various requirements. If the company you select does not provide a vast array of services and different types of metal products, this could result in unwanted delays and slow down your own production schedule.


It's also important to select a company that has significant experience in handling a variety of different types of metals, as well as multiple techniques. A good metal supply online should provide an array of value-added services to ensure that you can get exactly what you need in one place. The company's internal team should have all of the necessary certifications to handle the entire process, from quotation of your product through delivery. Along with receiving high-quality products, this will also ensure that you have complete peace of mind in knowing that all of your requirements will be met without incurring any unnecessary issues or delays.


Another important factor to look at when searching out a metal supply online is excellent customer service. Choose a company that strives to ensure that customers are always satisfied. The company you select should be committed to keeping you continually informed at every step of the process while manufacturing your metal products.

The selection of metal products, including various types of fittings for industrial applications, is no small matter. Your project's success rests on the quality of the products you choose. Selecting a superior online metal supply can help to ensure the successful outcome you desire. 

The Different Types of Stainless Steel Valves

Stainless steel has long been recognized for its ability to withstand tremendous pressure, harsh temperatures, and exposure to chemicals. Extremely durable, stainless steel is available in two common types: 304 stainless steel and 316 stainless steel. Of the two types, 316 is considered a purer, higher-quality steel. In searching for stainless steel valves for a project in Pennsylvania or New Jersey, it's important to understand the various types of valves available, to ensure that the right value is chosen for the job requirements. Each type of stainless steel valve serves a very distinct purpose. Such valves are used in a number of industries around the world, including water management, chemical processing, and food production.  

Check valves are commonly used for the prevention of backflow into a pipeline. A stainless steel ball check valve incorporates the use of a sphere located inside the body of the value, thus allowing flow to occur in only one direction. This type of design is critical for systems involving water purification or filtering. Stainless is the preferred metal of choice for this type of valve design, as it is able to hold up to water exposure.  

A stainless steel gate valve functions as an on/off valve. The gate or disc located inside the value is raised and then lowered while a handle is turned. Such valves are not ideally suited for regulating flow, and using them in that manner could result in damage to the disc mechanism. Two styles of gate valves are available: rising stem and non-rising stem.  

Knife valves are actually similar in nature to gate valves. The main difference is that a knife valve is more compact than a gate valve. 

Ball valves are typically used as a type of on/off control without incurring a drop in pressure. These types of valves are ideally suited for situations requiring a quick shut-off. A 90-degree turn can complete a shut-off with this valve, as opposed to the multiple turns that would typically be necessary for manual valves. 

In situations in which flow needs to be controlled with the movement of a diaphragm, a diaphragm valve is commonly used. Different types of pressure, including upstream, downstream, and even pressure from an external source, such as hydraulic or pneumatic, can be used for changing the diaphragm's position.


How Important Is Customer Service in Choosing Amongst Steel Companies in Pennsylvania?

For many organizations, the process of choosing a supplier comes down to the bottom line which is selecting the vendor that offers the lowest price. While there may be numerous steel companies in Pennsylvania, as well as the surrounding areas, including New Jersey, other factors beyond price should be considered in order to ensure a quality product and successful working relationship.

In this digital world, an emphasis on customer service is often forgotten in favor of speed and low prices. It is possible to enjoy quick shipping and affordable prices without sacrificing customer service, however. It all comes down to careful selection when choosing among available steel companies in Pennsylvania.

Not only will good customer service result in a more accurate and higher quality order, but it will also set the stage for better service in the future. For instance, if your firm should ever need a custom or special order, a steel company known for superior customer service will generally be better able to meet your needs than a company focused solely on low pricing.

Furthermore, a steel company specializing in excellent customer service will also often provide value-added services that might not be available through a company providing rock-bottom pricing. Such services may include laser cutting, plasma cutting, flame cutting, polishing, threading, drilling, sand blasting, and more.

One of the most common problems that many firms encounter when searching for steel companies in Pennsylvania is a required minimum order. Many times, you may need only a small amount of a particular product, and your budget simply won't allow for ordering more than what you need to meet a minimum order. A steel company with excellent customer service will understand this dilemma and never require a minimum order to get your business.

The right steel company will become a committed business partner and be pleased to provide quoted requests so that you can always make comparisons to ensure that you are getting the best deal possible. Excellent customer service is about far more than offering the lowest price or fastest shipping time, although both of those features are certainly important. Superior customer service is also about providing services that will enhance your entire business relationship.


Factors to Consider When Buying Stainless Steel Fittings Online

Stainless steel is a popular metal of choice for a variety of different applications, including various types of fittings used in industrial projects. This is for a very good reason, as stainless steel fittings offer numerous advantageous properties. If you are considering purchasing stainless steel fittings online, you will be able to take advantage of these numerous benefits.

 Corrosion Resistance

Among the most common reasons for buying stainless steel fittings is that they offer tremendous ability to withstand corrosion. The chromium component in stainless steel, making up a minimum of 10 percent of the overall stainless steel, provides this extremely important property. When chromium is exposed to oxygen, a thin layer is formed on the surface of the steel. This invisible layer is impervious to air and water. If scratched, the layer also quickly forms again, making stainless steel fittings ideal for use in highly corrosive environments.  

Temperature Resistant

If you are considering purchasing stainless steel fittings online, it is important to be aware that such fittings also provide the benefit of temperature resistance. This can be particularly important when the fittings will be exposed to extreme temperatures. Some fittings are capable of maintaining their strength even when exposed to extremely high temperatures, while other stainless steel fittings are able to continue performing when exposed to extremely cold environments. When purchasing stainless steel fittings for use in applications in Pennsylvania and New Jersey, temperature resistance is certainly a factor to take into consideration, particularly during the winter.  

Ease of Fabrication

Stainless steel also offers the benefit of being easily formed, cut, machined, and fabricated. As a result, it is possible to have an order for stainless steel fittings manufactured and delivered quickly, even on a rush or emergency order, allowing you to begin your project on time. 

Since stainless steel is capable of resisting extreme temperatures and corrosion so well, it also offers a tremendous strength-to-weight advantage. Less material is required for fabricating pipes and fittings, thus reducing the cost of materials and making it easier to meet budgetary requirements for projects.  

Stainless steel fittings are also available in a wide array of finishes, which makes it easier to match existing fittings and pipes.


Choosing the Right Stainless Steel Nipple for Industrial Applications

Commonly used in a number of different industrial applications, nipple fittings are made up of a variety of different types. Although nipple fittings can be produced from a variety of different materials, the stainless steel nipple is the most popular type of nipple, largely due to its inherent strength and durability.


Types of Stainless Steel Nipples

Among the various types of stainless steel nipple types are the hexagonal nipple, close nipple, reducing nipple, long hex nipple, welding nipple, and hose nipple. Basically, a nipple is simply a short length of pipe featuring male pipe threads located at both ends, making it possible to connect other fittings. Nipple fittings that do not have a section of unthreaded or bare pipe between the two connecting ends are usually known as running nipples or close nipples. When these types of nipples are used in a connection, only a small amount of the nipple is visible.


The type of stainless steel nipple selected for projects in Pennsylvania and New Jersey will usually depend on the project requirements. In some applications, there may be very little space available between the two threaded ends. A hexagonal nipple is often the best choice in this type of application, as it works similar to a nut and offers improved mechanical advantage. When a hexagonal nipple features more distance between the two threaded ends, it is referred to as a long hex nipple.


Reducing stainless steel nipples are often used in applications in which a change in pipe dimension is required. This may also sometimes be known as an unequal nipple. When using these types of fittings, it is important to exercise care, as a reduction in the diameter of the pipe can result in increased flow rate and pressure.


Stainless steel nipples are generally ideal for low-pressure applications in which a fitting that is resistant to corrosion in oil, gas, and water is required. It should be noted that a stainless steel nipple has a pressure rating of 150 psi for oil, gas, and water. Other types of stainless steel nipples include the 316, which offers a greater degree of heat resistance and corrosion resistance. As needed, it is also possible to order stainless steel nipples in custom sizes. 

3 Critically Important Benefits of Carbon Steel Fittings

In the process of determining which type of material is most suitable for use in an industrial project, it is important to consider the scale and magnitude of the job, as well as the type of product to be carried through the pipes, and how long the structure needs to last. After establishing these parameters, you can then determine the most suitable type of material to use.  

Steel is commonly preferred for fittings due to its versatility and strength. When carbon is added to steel, it is possible to achieve a particularly desired effect for certain industrial applications. Carbon steel fittings offer a number of important advantages for various commercial and industrial applications in Pennsylvania and New Jersey 

1. Superior Strength

Among those benefits is superior strength. Adding carbon to steel makes it possible to achieve a far stronger product. Strength is further increased through the use of a heat treatment, without running the risk of changing the shape. The more carbon is added to the steel, the more durable the final product becomes. For this reason, carbon steel fittings are considered among the most durable products available.  

2. Increased Durability

Adding precisely the right amount of carbon to steel makes it possible to attain the desired level of durability. Mild carbon steel is often preferred, because it is durable yet offers a cost-effective solution for large-scale projects. By comparison, medium carbon steel is used more frequently in automotive manufacturing, due to the fact that it is more resistant to corrosive materials. As a general rule of thumb, the higher the level of carbon in the product, the stronger the steel is. Products containing the highest levels of carbon are generally used in producing wires. Given the vast array of different types of carbon steel fittings available, it can quickly become confusing. An experienced metal supply vendor can assist you in determining the best type of fittings for your project.  

3. Endurance

Carbon steel fittings also provide the benefit of endurance because they are able to withstand even significant environmental changes. Since they are rust resistant, carbon steel fittings require less cleaning and can last for long periods of time. 

An Introduction to the Carbon Steel Flange

Regardless of the type of piping system used in your facility, flanges form an integral part of that system. Used as a way of connecting valves, pumps, pipes, and other types of equipment, flanges are typically either screwed or welded. Flanged joints can be constructed by bolting together two flanges with a gasket between them, effectively creating a seal.

Different Types of Flanges Available

In choosing flanges, it is important to recognize that flanges can be manufactured from a variety of different materials. Along with a carbon steel flange, other types of flanges include aluminum flanges, cast iron flanges, high-pressure steel flanges, and brass flanges. The forged carbon steel flange is by far the most popular option. Materials used in the construction of flanges are often chosen in an effort to match the material used in the pipe in which the flange will be used.


As is the case with pipes and fittings, it is also possible to coat flanges internally, using other materials. This is typically done in order to add certain desired properties. When a flange is internally coated with another material, it is referred to as a lined flange.


Various types of flanges are also available. Among the most commonly used types of flanges are the slip-on flange, weld neck flange, socketweld flange, threaded flange, lap joint flange, and blind flange. Depending on the needs for a specific application, specialty flanges, such as expander flanges, reducing flanges, long welding neck flanges, and orifice flanges may also be used.

The Benefits of Flanged Connections

Flange connections offer a number of benefits, including easy cleaning, modification, and inspection. A flange connection also helps to eliminate the need to weld pipe spools. Facilities also typically find that painting and blasting are no longer necessary with a flange connection. There are some potential disadvantages to using a flange connection, including the fact that a pipe system with a flanged connection will typically require more space.


If you need assistance in choosing the right type of flange for an upcoming project, it is important to work with an experienced online metal supply offering a wide array of flanges, including carbon steel flanges.