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.

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 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

 

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

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Tags: Pipe Fitting Pipe Flange Valve