Flange vs. Threaded Connections for Water Pumps
When installing industrial water pumps, choosing the right pipe connection method—flange or threaded—directly impacts system stability, sealing performance, and maintenance efficiency. Both connections serve the core purpose of linking pumps to pipelines, but they differ significantly in design, application scope, and operational requirements. Below is a detailed breakdown to help you make an informed choice.
Flange connections rely on bolted circular flanges (attached to pump inlets/outlets and pipes) to create a sealed joint, often with gaskets for enhanced leak resistance. They excel in high-pressure (typically ≥1.6 MPa) and large-diameter (≥DN50) scenarios, such as industrial water supply, boiler feed systems, and long-distance fluid transfer. The bolted design ensures superior stability under heavy loads or vibration, making them ideal for critical industrial processes. However, flange connections require more space for installation, involve drilling and bolting, and tend to be more costly due to additional components (flanges, gaskets, bolts).
Threaded connections, by contrast, use tapered or straight threads on pipe ends to screw directly into pump ports, with thread sealant or tape for sealing. They are best suited for low-to-medium pressure (≤1.0 MPa) and small-diameter (≤DN40) applications, including residential water supply, small-scale industrial circulation, and portable equipment (e.g., self-priming pumps for temporary use). Their compact design saves space, enables quick installation without special tools, and reduces upfront costs. Limitations include lower pressure resistance—threaded joints may leak or loosen under high pressure—and difficulty in disassembling after long-term use due to thread seizing.
In summary, select flange connections for high-pressure, large-flow industrial systems where reliability and leak-proofing are paramount. Opt for threaded connections for small-scale, low-pressure setups that demand easy installation and cost-effectiveness. At Rondos-Pump, our industrial pumps are available with both connection options, tailored to your specific pressure, pipe size, and application needs. For personalized advice, visit https://www.rondos-pump.com to consult our technical team.