10 Things to Consider When Buying flange corner

Flanges are integral to the oil and gas industry, but they’re still a bit of a mystery to the average consumer. The piping systems that we rely upon today cannot function properly without flanges, yet they often are poorly maintained or bought in the wrong form. The more that is known about flanges, the less risk there will be that consumers invest in parts that don’t really work for them.

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Below are some of the facts that you may not know about flanges. These key pieces of equipment can be challenging, but they are necessary for the continuing function of the pipeline industry.

1. Flanges Can Be Forged Or Cast

There are two different methods used for the creation of flanges. One is casting, while the other is forging. Both forged and cast flanges can work well, but each of the production method has advantages and disadvantages.

Cast products are essentially created when molten metal is poured into a mold or vessel in order to create the desired shape. Forged products are created when steel ingots or billets are exposed to mechanical and thermal pressures, which manipulate them into different shapes.

The main issue with cast flanges is that they are more prone to internal defects. This means that they cannot be used in extremely high-pressure situations, as they may fail suddenly with no warning. Due to their risk of internal flaws, cast flanges are also more likely to be heavily affected by corrosion.

In contrast, forged flanges are not only more reliable, but ultimately able to withstand more pressure. Forged parts actually have 37% higher fatigue strength, which means that they last longer. Therefore, it’s better to invest in high-strength forged products as they are usually better long term investments when used within high-pressure applications.

2. Flanges Come In Many Different Forms

Typically, flange distributors will offer many different types of flanges. There is no single type of flange that is right for every situation. Rather, they need to be selected carefully. If the wrong flange is used in a project, it will fail. Some of the popular types of pipe flanges include blind, weld neck, slip-on, lap joint, threaded, socket, and orifice flanges. Each of these serves a different purpose.

An orifice flange, for example, is meant to house an orifice meter that can track the flow speed within a pipe. This makes it one of the more complex forged parts on the market. On the other hand, a blind flange is considered one of the simplest flange designs. It’s little more than a disk used to block the opening of a pipe, with its main difference being that it lacks an opening in the center through which fluid can flow.

If multiple types of products are needed for one project, it’s wise to work with a single distributor for all of them. This helps avoid sourcing issues and ensures that all of the products are made with the exact same quality standards.

3. Flanges Are Made From Many Different Materials

Lots of materials are used to create this product, including carbon steel and stainless steel, as well as aluminum, cast iron, bronze, and even plastic. At times, different materials may be used to create the same single flange. This is because such products are known as lined flanges, and are essentially built on internal layers of different lining materials. The performance of a product can be affected by the materials used, but the production process is just as important.

4. Flanges Offer Different Material Grades

It’s important to know that the product you’re buying is of the correct material grade. Otherwise, it can be far too easy for you to buy a flange that is not suitable for your project. The material grade comes in a combination of numbers and letters and is indicative of the use, mechanical properties, and chemical composition of a product. Study material grades carefully before making a purchase decision.

Without the correct flanges in place, a project can fail spectacularly, resulting in injury or even loss of life. Pay careful attention to the types of flanges being bought for a product, as well as where they came from and how they were made.

Categories: Breastfeeding, Pumping
March 11,

Last updated on January 27,

Finding the right size for your breast flange or shield will help you ensure appropriate milk output and have the most comfortable pumping sessions possible. Don’t know what size breast shield you need? Find out more below!

What is a flange?

A flange, or breast shield, is the cone shaped funnel that fits directly over your nipple, areola, and breast. When using the correct size, it forms a seal between your breast and the plastic or silicone that then creates a vacuum to extract milk.

Many manufacturers will also make smaller inserts* or cushions that go within an existing breast shield size. These reduce the opening of the tunnel where the nipple enters. They are often less expensive than a full flange or breast shield.

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Why size matters

Using the correct size flange or breast shield will help optimize milk output. If a flange is too small, it could restrict the tissue, potentially causing clogged milk ducts. If the flange is too large, it may not remove all the milk, which could contribute to a lower milk supply. Using an ill-fitting flange can also cause nipple pain or injury.

Flange sizes range from about 13mm up to about 36mm, depending on brand. That measurement has nothing to do with the opening of the flange, but is the size of the beginning of the flange tunnel. That is because breast shield size is about nipple size, not breast/chest size.

Breast pumps typically come with 1 or 2 sets of breast shields. They will most likely be around 21-28mm. In addition to the included size(s), some brands like Cimilre, have certain guarantees to help you get the size you need by offering you a third size option, free of charge! Outside of these guarantees, additional sizes typically require an out-of-pocket purchase or using a possible insurance benefit covering replacement parts.

How to measure your flange size

To determine the best flange size for you, you’ll need to measure your nipple. Start by lightly stimulating your nipple with gentle touch. Take a tape measure or ruler and measure the diameter of the tip of your nipple in millimeters. We recommend measuring vertically (up and down) and horizontally (left to right) and using the larger of those 2 measurements. Do not include measurements for your areola, the larger part around your nipple.

Not just the numbers

The size of your nipple is not the only thing that matters. You also want to pay attention to what happens to your nipple once the pump is on and suction is applied to your body. Everyone’s body reacts differently- stretching longer vs wider. It is okay if your nipple touches the side of the flange tunnel, as long as it still moves easily and does not cause any friction, discomfort, or damage.

Once you have your nipple diameter, it is recommended to try sizes around it (-1mm up to +2mm). You may be able to select the closest size flanges or inserts offered by your pump manufacturer.

Examples:

• Using a Cimilre S6, measuring 14mm: Next size is 16mm flanges.
• Using Elvie, measuring 16mm: You could try the 15mm or 17mm inserts.
• Using a Lansinoh SmartPump 3.0, measuring 20mm: Try 19mm inserts or 21mm flanges.
• Using a Medela PIS MaxFlow, measuring 18mm: You could try the 18mm flanges.
• Using a Spectra S2, measuring 19mm: Next size is the 20mm flanges.
• Using a Willow, measuring 14mm: You could try the 13mm or 15mm inserts.
• Using a Zomee Z2, measuring 22mm: Try 21mm flanges or inserts or 24mm flanges.

If you ever feel like the sizes offered by the manufacturer of your breast pump will not work for you, reach out to them and ask them what they suggest! Some manufacturers are ok with you using any other flange or insert if they DO NOT offer the size you need. It is best to ask the manufacturer directly where to look because using off-brand replacement parts may undermine the warranty for your pump and/or impact the suction strength and/or effectiveness.

Keep in mind, breasts are not identical. Each breast/nipple may require a different size flange. In fact, your flange size may even change throughout your pumping journey. Before you replace your pump parts, it’s a good idea to remeasure to confirm you are still using the correct size.

The proper fit

Signs of an incorrect fit:

• Significant pain while pumping
• Breast/chest/areolar/nipple discomfort between pumping sessions
• A delayed let-down (2+ minutes)
• Recurrent plugged ducts, with other causes ruled out

Signs of a correct fit:

• The flange fits comfortably around your nipple and breast/chest
• Only your nipple and little to none of your areola enter the tunnel when pumping (because nipples are not perfect circles!)
• Any movement of the nipple against the side of the tunnel is fluid and comfortable
• Your letdown occurs within 1-2 minutes of pumping, at most
• You see milk spraying out or a significant flow
• After pumping, your breasts feel soft and emptied
• Your milk supply remains the same or improves
• Overall, your pumping sessions are comfortable and free of pain

A final note

Finding and using the correct size flange is important to ensure your pumping experience is as successful and comfortable as possible. Spending time to determine your flange size will go a long way toward helping you meet and exceed your breastfeeding and pumping goals. If you have questions about your flange fit, pumping, and more, check out our breast pump education resources. For additional support, reach out to a lactation provider in your area.

Still looking for a breast pump? We can help you get your free breast pump through insurance!

This blog includes, but is not limited to, recommendations from the study completed by Lisa A. Anders, PhD, RN, IBCLC, Jeanette Mesite Frem, MHS, IBCLC, RLC, CCE, and Thomas P. McCoy, PhD, PStat

Click here to learn more about The Flange FITS™ Guide created by Jeanette Mesite Frem, Babies in Common. The guide is available in 21 languages!

*Silicone inserts/flanges can interact with your body differently than a hard plastic shield and may not work as well. When trying these, the following may be helpful:

1. Silicone items may need to be slightly larger than a hard plastic option (by 1-2mm)
2. Using lubrication may help with nipple movement and comfort in silicone
3. Do not try a silicone insert without the guidance of a lactation professional if you have any concerns about your milk supply

**This post contains affiliate links, which means Acelleron may receive a commission if you make a purchase using these links.

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