Joining Methods
Tite Liner® system flange fittings have been used since 1985 to provide a tight seal and restrained joint in pressures up to and over 5,000 psi. Each raised face steel flange is machined to match the inside diameter of the steel pipe and inspected to verify that the raised face dimension is correct. A radius that matches the radius of the polyethylene flange-fittings is manufactured by United Pipeline Systems to exact dimensions to ensure superior performance of the completed flange connection.
Each polyethylene flange-fitting is butt-fused to the end of the liner section and allowed to retract to fit tightly against the raised face of the steel flange. As two steel flanges are joined together, the polyethylene flange-fitting is compressed, creating a seal in the pipe system. A spacer ring is placed between the steel flanges to provide the correct amount of compression of the liner flange. This compression creates the seal and the spacer ring adds long-term stability to the connection.
United has developed a patented, unique flange connection for use in slurry and non-slurry pipelines. Our steel flange and polyethylene flange-fittings are both machined with specially designed interlocking surfaces that provide uniform geometry across the joint.
The Slurry Flange™ connection not only allows the use of the same sealing method proven with thousands of Tite Liner® system flange connections, but also eliminates excessive wear of the polyethylene pipe lining due to particle turbulence and provides smooth flow across the pipe joint. An optional secondary seal using a gasket can be provided to further protect the polyethylene pipe lining.
For projects where a flanged connection is either undesirable or prohibited, United Pipeline Systems offers a welded connection that can create a fully welded pressure vessel. United Pipeline's WeldTite™ EF welded connection is similar in function to the CRA product. All wetted materials are thermoplastic and the continuously smooth inside diameter of the connection makes it ideal for abrasive (slurry) applications.
The United Pipeline CRA welded connection allows for the connection of two thermoplastic lined sections of steel pipe without the use of flanges. The connection creates an end seal on the thermoplastic liner which is tested to over 9,000 psi and materials are either thermoplastic or corrosion resistant alloy (CRA).
Other features
- U.S. and international patents
- Installation and operation complies with pipeline codes: ASME B31.3, ASME B31.4 and ASME B31.8
- United Pipeline Systems has installed more than 200 of these connectors to date
The Tite Liner® system offers complete protection for steel fittings used in abrasive and corrosive service for a complete polyethylene pipe lining solution. The thick thermoplastic pipe lining is factory applied and bonded to the inner wall of elbows, tees and other fittings. These thermoplastic lined fittings are made exclusively to United Pipeline System's specifications, ensuring a proper fit and a seal at all connections.
