Bleed Ring

on . Posted in Pipe Fitting

A bleed ring is a ring section with one or more radial pipe connections designed to fit between standard flanges within the bolt circle, using conventional gasket material.  The ring normally comes with a 3/4" tapped or 1/2" socket weld for connecting with valves and instruments.  The face of the ring can also be made to matched with any flange type.  A bleed ring has different sizes based on the ANSI flange rating of the process piping.

Bleed Ring Index

A bleed ring can be used instead of an orifice flange union.  It is easier to install and cheaper than installing orifice flanges, especially in a brown field application.  It comes in many different materials such as carbon steel, stainless steel, PVC, ect., depending on the use.  They provide a convenient way of draining piping, taking samples, attaching instruments or even bleeding of a valve.  When used with a valve and blind flange, it allows you to relieve the pressure if your valve is leaking before you remove the flange.

 

 

 

Bleed Ring Advantages and Disadvantages

AdvantagesDisadvantages
  • The primary purpose of a bleed ring is to provide a controlled outlet for excess pressure, preventing overpressurization in the piping system.  This helps in protecting the equipment and components downstream.
  • Bleed rings facilitate easy maintenance and inspection of the system without the need for complete disassembly.  This can be crucial for systems that require periodic checks or adjustments.
  • Using a bleed ring can be more cost effective than implementing alternative pressure relief solutions.  It provides a simple and efficient method for pressure relief without the need for complex systems.
  • Bleed rings are versatile and can be used in various applications and industries where pressure relief is necessary.
  • The presence of a bleed ring can cause some flow restriction in the system, as it introduces an additional element in the piping.  This restriction may be a consideration in systems where high flow rates are crucial.
  • The size of the bleed ring and the space required for its installation can be a limiting factor in certain applications.  It's important to consider the available space when deciding to use a bleed ring.
  • While bleed rings are designed to allow controlled bleeding of pressure, there is still a potential for leakage.  Proper installation and maintenance are essential to minimize the risk of leaks.

 

Bleed Ring Standards

  • ASME Standards
    • ASME B16.5 - Pipe Flanges and Flanged Fittings: NPS 1/2 through NPS 24 Metric/Inch Standard
    • ASME B16.20 - Metallic Gaskets for Pipe Flanges: Ring-Joint, Spiral-Wound, and Jacketed
    • ASME B16.47 - Large Diameter Steel Flanges: NPS 26 Through NPS 60 Metric/Inch Standard
    • ASME B16.48 - Line Blanks

 

Bleed Ring Datasheets

Class Bleed Ring Raised or Flat Face Class Bleed Ring Ring Tight Joint
 ANSI 150 - 2500  Bleed Ring - ANSI Class 150-2500 (in)  ANSI 150 - 2500  Bleed Ring - ANSI Class 150-2500 RTJ

 

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Tags: Pipe Fitting Pipe Flange Valve