scope:

1.1 SCOPE OF ANALYSIS PROJECT

The following types of standard end connections are within the scope of this project.

1. API 6B flanges, 2-1/16″ thru 4-1/16″ diameter with 2000 through 5000 psi ratings. These may have R or RX ring joint gaskets(4).

2. API 6BX flanges, 2-1/16″ through 4-1/16″ diameter with 10,000 psi and 15,000 psi ratings. These require BX ring joint gaskets(4).

3. API clamp type connections, 2-1/16″ through 4-1/16″ diameter with 5,000 and 10,000 psi ratings. These require RX gaskets and deep ring grooves for face-to-face makeup.(4)

4. ANSI type flanges, 2″ through 6″ diameter with ANSI Class 150 through 900 rating(5). These are assumed for this study to have flat gaskets although in practice they may have ring-type gaskets.

Materials under consideration are carbon steel, alloy steel, and stainless steel.

The above 4 groups represent 67 different connector geometries. When the possibilities for different seals and materials are also considered, there are literally hundreds of possible combinations of size, seal, and material.