Pipe flange and piping system

Abstract

A threaded pipe flange and piping system utilizing the same. The threaded pipe flange includes a base portion having a predetermined shape and at least two openings dimensioned to accept at least two mounting bolts. A shoulder portion extends from, and is integral to, the base portion and includes at least two substantially flat gripping surfaces that allow the flange to be attached using an open end wrench, adjustable wrench or pipe wrench. A threaded opening extends through the base portion and the shoulder portion and is sized to mate with the threaded pipe to which the flange is to be attached. In operation, the pipe flange is attached to the predetermined threaded pipe by aligning the threaded opening with the predetermined threaded pipe, gripping the gripping surfaces of the shoulder portion, and rotating the pipe flange until the flange is tight. The piping system includes at least one threaded pipe, a pipe flange having a plurality of gripping surfaces, a pair of mounting bolts and a circulator or other pump.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.