PN10 Vs PN16 Flanges Key Differences in Pressure Ratings

Imagine a meticulously designed pipeline system compromised by a single flange selection error, leading to leaks, operational shutdowns, or even safety incidents. In pipeline systems, flanges serve as critical connectors—bridging pipes and equipment to ensure secure fluid transfer. Among the array of flange options, PN10 and PN16 often cause confusion for engineers and procurement specialists. This article clarifies their distinctions to guide informed decisions.

PN (Pressure Nominale) denotes a flange’s maximum pressure rating in bar (1 bar ≈ 14.5 psi) under European standards like ISO 7005-1 or DIN 2501-1. These metric-standardized flanges are widely used in water supply, oil/gas, and chemical industries.

Key variations between PN10 and PN16 flanges span pressure capacity, dimensions, materials, applications, and cost:

• PN10: Rated for ≤10 bar (145 psi). Ideal for low-pressure systems:
  • Residential water supply
  • Low-pressure compressed air
  • Basic heating systems
• PN16: Handles ≤16 bar (232 psi). Suited for demanding applications:
  • Industrial water lines
  • High-pressure air systems
  • Hydrocarbon processing

Recommendation: Select a flange with a pressure rating exceeding the system’s maximum operating pressure, including a safety margin.

• DN150 (NPS 6) or smaller: PN10 and PN16 flanges share identical dimensions, allowing interchangeability.
• Above DN150: PN16 flanges feature thicker walls and larger bolt holes for enhanced strength, making them incompatible with PN10 counterparts.

Recommendation: Verify dimensional compatibility, especially for larger flanges.

Both types use materials like:

• Ductile iron: Balanced strength/corrosion resistance for water systems.
• Carbon steel: Cost-effective for non-corrosive fluids.
• Stainless steel: Essential for corrosive media (acids, alkalis).
• PVC: Low-pressure, non-corrosive applications.

Recommendation: Match material to fluid properties, temperature, and environmental conditions.

• PN10: Municipal water, irrigation, low-pressure HVAC.
• PN16: Industrial water, chemical plants, oil refineries, power plant cooling.

PN16 flanges typically cost more due to higher material/engineering requirements.

Recommendation: Prioritize PN10 for cost savings if pressure allows; opt for PN16 if future pressure increases are anticipated.