A lap joint flange is a type of flange used in piping systems to connect pipes, valves, pumps, and other equipment. It consists of two main components: a stub end and a backing flange. The stub end is welded to the pipe, while the backing flange is bolted to the flange of the adjacent pipe or equipment.
The unique feature of a lap joint flange is that the stub end is free to rotate around the backing flange. This allows for easy alignment of the bolt holes during installation. The flange connection is made by bolting the stub end to the backing flange using bolts and nuts.
Lap joint flanges are often used in applications where frequent dismantling and reassembly of the piping system are required, or where there is a need for easy alignment of bolt holes. They are commonly used in low-pressure and non-critical applications due to their ease of assembly and disassembly.
It’s worth noting that lap joint flanges are not suitable for applications where high pressure or temperature is involved, as the stub end-to-backing flange connection is not as strong or secure as other types of flange connections.