API Classification of Flanges

There are three common types of API flanges: API 2000,3000,5000 and there are two high
pressure series, API 10,000 and 15,000. The number of the series indicated corresponds to
the maximum working pressure expressed in psi at a temperature of l00ºF.

This maximum working pressure is affected by temperature। The maximum working pressure
of the flange will be reduced by a factor of 1.8% for each 50ºF increase in temperature above
100ºF to a maximum of 450’F. The following table gives the maximum working pressure as a
function of temperature.

Pressure Ratings

Test And Working Pressures

The hydrostatic test pressure is equal to twice the maximum working pressures for flanges of
diameter below or equal to 14 inches. The test pressure is equal to 1.5 times the maximum
working pressure for flanges of diameter equal to or greater than 16 inches.