In process plants handling flammable, explosive, or particularly valuable media, pressure gauges with fully welded connection flanges offer an effective and safe solution.

In process technology systems in which flammable, explosive or particularly high-quality media are used, one thing is paramount: safety. A key requirement for operators is the permanent leak tightness of mechanical connections – especially for pressure measuring instruments. Pressure gauges with a fully welded connection flange offer an effective solution here.

Conventional threaded connections such as G1/2 B or 1/2 NPT are not considered to be permanently tight in safety-critical applications. They can also come loose due to vibrations, for example, or be opened accidentally by maintenance personnel. All of this poses a considerable risk to people, the environment and the process. Potential consequences include dangerous leakages, fugitive emissions and high maintenance and downtime costs.

All-round fully welded connection flanges

Pressure gauges with fully welded connection flanges are an innovative and reliable alternative for critical environments. The flange is welded directly to the socket of the pressure gauge all around, without internal seals and tested 100 percent for leak tightness. Fully welded connection flanges are also suitable for applications where the use of a diaphragm seal is not absolutely necessary – for example, for media that are not highly aggressive or if a flush diaphragm is not required.

On a pressure gauge with a fully welded connecting flange, the socket is welded all around.

WIKA pressure gauge with fully welded connecting flange

Advantages of a fully welded flange solution

WIKA has developed a fully welded flange solution that is already being used successfully by leading industrial companies in the chemical and petrochemical, oil and gas and pharmaceutical industries. The advantages of this flange solution are manifold:

  • 100 percent gas-tight: leakages are permanently prevented
  • Long service life: The measuring assembly is maintenance-free as there are no seals at the connection point
  • Protection of operating personnel: It is not possible to open the connection accidentally
  • Environmental protection: Fugitive emissions from the process medium are avoided
  • Reduced risk of corrosion: As there is no gap, there is no surface for corrosion to attack

Conclusion

Fully welded connection flanges are the ideal solution for operators who need to ensure maximum safety and reliability in their applications. These not only ensure a trouble-free process, but also make an important contribution to protecting people and the environment.

Note
Read more about pressure gauges and other pressure measuring instruments on the WIKA website. There you will also find further information about WIKA as a company. If you have any questions, your contact will gladly help you.

Also read our posts
Stainless steel pressure gauges: Leak testing makes all the difference
Stainless steel pressure gauge in safety version: Selection guide
Stainless steel pressure gauges: Facelift brings digital features