Square Flanges vs Round Flanges: What’s the Difference?

Flanges are a crucial component in piping systems, ensuring secure connections between pipes, valves, and other equipment. But when it comes to choosing between square flanges and round flanges, the decision isn’t always straightforward. Each shape offers distinct advantages and limitations that can significantly impact the performance and efficiency of your system. For instance, square flanges might be preferred in scenarios where space constraints demand a more compact design, while round flanges are often lauded for their superior stress distribution. Understanding the nuances between these two flange types is essential for making informed decisions in your projects. In this article, we’ll dive into the structural benefits, application scenarios, and technical specifications of both square and round flanges, providing you with a comprehensive comparative analysis. So, which flange shape best suits your needs? Let’s explore the differences and find out.

Introduction to Flange Types

Definition and Purpose of Flanges

Flanges are critical components in piping systems. They ensure a secure, leak-proof connection that is easy to assemble and disassemble for maintenance and repair. Designed to withstand various pressures and temperatures, flanges maintain the integrity of the piping system.

Overview of Flange Types

Round Flanges

Round flanges are the most common in industrial applications, thanks to their standardized dimensions and availability, and they fit circular pipes, classified by their construction and use:

• Welding Neck Flanges: These flanges are perfect for high-pressure and high-temperature applications, providing strong reinforcement and reducing stress at the flange base.
• Slip-On Flanges: Easy to install and suitable for low-pressure applications, slip-on flanges slip over the pipe and are then welded both inside and outside to ensure a secure fit. They are cost-effective but offer less strength compared to welding neck flanges.
• Socket Weld Flanges: Used for smaller pipe sizes, these flanges have a socket into which the pipe is inserted and then welded. They provide a strong and reliable seal but are more challenging to remove.
• Blind Flanges: These solid flanges are used to close off the end of a pipe or a valve, effectively sealing the system. They are not designed for fluid flow but are essential for maintenance and testing purposes.
• Threaded Flanges: Ideal for high-pressure applications and small diameter pipes, threaded flanges screw onto the pipe without the need for welding, making installation straightforward and convenient.

Square Flanges

Square flanges, though less common, are used in specific situations where their shape offers unique benefits. These flanges are usually custom-made for specific applications and are not standardized like round flanges. Their unique shape can be beneficial in certain mounting configurations and structural connections where space constraints or specific design requirements necessitate a non-circular flange.

Comparative Analysis: Round vs. Square Flanges

Common Use

Round flanges are extensively utilized in various industries due to their versatility and compatibility with most piping systems. They are standardized with clear specifications, making them easy to source and implement. Square flanges are often custom-made for unique applications where a rectangular shape is advantageous.

Standardization

Round flanges conform to established standards, such as ASME B16.5, which define their dimensions, pressure ratings, and material specifications. This standardization ensures consistency and reliability across different piping systems. Square flanges lack such standardization and are typically designed for specific, non-standard applications.

Applications

Round flanges are suitable for a wide range of pressures and temperatures, making them ideal for general industrial use. Square flanges are limited to applications where their shape provides structural or mounting benefits, often requiring custom fabrication to meet specific design needs.

Ease of Installation

Round flanges, particularly slip-on and socket weld types, are generally easy to install due to their standardized dimensions and straightforward assembly procedures. Square flanges can be more challenging to install because of their non-standard sizes and shapes, often necessitating precise alignment and custom installation techniques.

Key Considerations

Versatility

Round flanges offer greater versatility and adaptability to various piping systems due to their standardized design. They are suitable for both high and low-pressure applications, providing reliable performance across different scenarios.

Pressure and Temperature Resistance

Round flanges, especially welding neck flanges, are better suited for high-pressure and high-temperature applications, providing robust reinforcement and minimizing stress concentration. Square flanges, while potentially beneficial in specific structural applications, may not offer the same level of performance under extreme conditions.

Cost and Availability

Round flanges are generally more cost-effective and readily available due to their widespread use and standardization. Square flanges, being custom-made, can be more expensive and harder to source, especially for specialized applications.

Square Flanges

Square flanges are connectors specifically designed to securely join pipes, tubes, and equipment. Square flanges, suitable for high-pressure environments and applications requiring robust connections, are typically made from durable materials like carbon steel, stainless steel, and aluminum alloys. These materials are chosen for their strength, corrosion resistance, and ability to endure high pressures. The selection of material depends on the specific requirements of the application, including the operating environment and the types of fluids or gases being transported.

The square design offers a larger contact area than round flanges, enhancing connection stability and security. This shape also ensures an even distribution of pressure across the surface, making square flanges ideal for heavy-duty applications where uniform pressure distribution is crucial.

Installing and removing square flanges is generally easier than round flanges. Their flat surfaces and square bolt patterns simplify the alignment process, reducing the time and effort required for installation. This ease of installation is particularly beneficial in maintenance scenarios where quick disassembly and reassembly are necessary.

Square flanges are used in various industries and applications due to their unique design and robust construction. In high-pressure environments like oil and gas, petrochemical plants, and hydraulic systems, square flanges are prized for their leak-proof seals and ability to withstand significant pressures. Their robust design ensures reliable performance under extreme conditions, minimizing the risk of leaks and failures.

Square flanges are also utilized in HVAC systems to connect ducts and facilitate transitions between different duct sizes. Their stable connections ensure efficient airflow and reduce the risk of leaks, contributing to the overall efficiency of the HVAC system.

In the construction industry, square flanges support beams, columns, and other structural elements. Their larger contact area and even pressure distribution make them suitable for bearing heavy loads and providing structural stability.

Applications involving fluid dynamics, such as water jets or vacuum systems, can also benefit from square flanges. Their design ensures a secure and stable connection, which is critical in systems where precise fluid control is required.

Structural Advantages and Limitations

Advantages

• High-Pressure Capability: The robust design and even pressure distribution make square flanges well-suited for high-pressure applications.
• Ease of Installation: Square flanges are easier to install and remove, saving time and reducing labor costs.
• Versatility: They can be used in a variety of settings, from industrial piping systems to structural frameworks.

Limitations

• Non-Standardization: Unlike round flanges, square flanges are not standardized, which can make sourcing and compatibility more challenging.
• Limited Application Scope: While they offer unique benefits, square flanges are not suitable for all applications and are often custom-made for specific scenarios.
• Potential for Misalignment: The square shape requires precise alignment during installation to ensure proper sealing and performance.

Round Flanges

Detailed Description and Characteristics

Round flanges are circular components used to securely connect pipes, valves, and equipment in piping systems, ensuring a leak-proof connection. The circular shape of round flanges provides a 360-degree sealing surface, significantly reducing the risk of leaks.

Material Composition

Round flanges are made from materials like carbon steel and stainless steel, chosen based on application needs such as pressure and temperature. Stainless steel flanges, for example, are preferred in environments where corrosion resistance is crucial.

Common Applications and Scenarios

Round flanges are versatile and widely used in various industrial applications due to their standardized dimensions and ease of integration into existing systems.

Piping Systems

In piping systems, round flanges are essential for connecting pipes and facilitating maintenance. They are used in water supply networks, gas pipelines, and other fluid transport systems. The continuous circular seal of round flanges ensures minimal leak risks, enhancing the reliability of the connections.

Chemical Processing

In chemical processing plants, round flanges are used in reactors, separators, and storage tanks. Their ability to maintain tight seals under varying pressures and temperatures makes them ideal for handling chemicals safely and efficiently.

Fluid Handling Systems

Round flanges are ideal in fluid systems because they evenly distribute stress, reducing the risk of fatigue and improving durability. This characteristic is crucial in systems where fluid dynamics play a significant role.

Structural Advantages and Limitations

Advantages

1. Sealing Efficiency: The circular design of round flanges ensures a tight seal, minimizing leaks.
2. Even Stress Distribution: The absence of corners in round flanges eliminates stress concentration points, distributing loads more evenly. This enhances the flange’s ability to withstand cyclical loading and reduces the risk of fatigue failure.
3. Reduced Turbulence: The smooth, circular design of round flanges minimizes turbulence within the piping system, optimizing fluid flow and reducing pressure drops.
4. Standardization: Round flanges conform to established standards like ASME B16.5, ensuring consistency in dimensions, pressure ratings, and material specifications. This standardization simplifies sourcing and installation.

Limitations

1. Space Constraints: In situations where space is limited, round flanges may not be the most efficient choice. Their circular shape can be less adaptable to certain custom applications compared to square flanges.
2. Installation Complexity: While generally easier to install than non-standard flanges, round flanges still require precise alignment and proper bolting techniques to ensure a secure and leak-proof connection.

Comparison with Square Flanges

Round flanges are often compared with square flanges to determine the best fit for specific applications. While both types serve the purpose of connecting pipes and equipment, their design differences lead to varied performance characteristics.

Round flanges distribute stress evenly and provide better sealing efficiency than square flanges, which may face stress at corners and require precise alignment. Square flanges, on the other hand, may experience stress concentration at the corners, potentially leading to fatigue over time.

Pressure Rating and Capacity

Round flanges are generally better suited for high-pressure applications due to their even stress distribution and robust design. Square flanges, while capable of handling significant pressures, are typically used in scenarios where their shape offers specific structural or mounting benefits.

Cost Implications and Availability

Round flanges are more cost-effective and readily available due to their widespread use and standardization. Square flanges, being custom-made for specific applications, can be more expensive and harder to source.

Maintenance and Durability

Round flanges tend to be easier to maintain due to their standardized design and compatibility with common piping systems. Their durability is enhanced by even stress distribution and effective sealing capabilities. Square flanges, while robust, may require more frequent inspections and maintenance to ensure alignment and sealing performance.

Technical Specifications

Design Standards & Applications

Square flanges are primarily governed by standards such as JIS B2291 and JIS F7806, which outline their use in high-pressure applications. These standards specify pressure ratings up to 350 kgf/cm², making square flanges suitable for hydraulic systems and compact piping layouts where high-pressure resistance is crucial. Additionally, some square flanges are designed to comply with ASME B16.5/ANSI B16.5 standards, broadening their applicability.

Round flanges conform to widely recognized standards such as ASME B16.5 and EN 1092-1. These standards cover a range of pressure classes (Class 150–2500 and PN6–PN40), ensuring their suitability for general-purpose piping systems, chemical processing, and applications requiring standardized bolt-hole alignment.

Material & Size Range

Square flanges are typically manufactured from durable materials like SF440A hydraulic steel and SS316 stainless steel. The material choice depends on the application needs, like corrosion resistance and pressure capacity. Size ranges for square flanges vary, generally covering 1/4″ to 6″ nominal bore (NB) for hydraulic steel and 3/8″ to 3″ NB for stainless steel.

Round flanges are produced using a variety of materials, including carbon steel, stainless steel (such as ASTM A182), and alloy steel. The size range for round flanges is broader, typically extending from ½” to 48″ NB under ASME B16.5 standards, allowing for extensive use in diverse industrial applications.

Pressure & Bolt Configurations

Square flanges support high-pressure ratings, with JIS F7806 designs accommodating up to 350 kgf/cm², while round flanges under ASME B16.5 standards can handle pressures up to approximately 420 kgf/cm² (Class 2500), making them suitable for even more demanding applications.

Square flanges often utilize metric screws (DIN 912-8.8) and may feature fewer bolts in compact designs, facilitating easier installation in tight spaces. Round flanges adhere to ASME-specified bolt circles with standardized hole counts, ensuring consistent and reliable connections across different systems.

Sealing Mechanisms

Square flanges typically use O-rings and flat square blind flanges for sealing. These mechanisms ensure reliable, leak-free connections, particularly in high-pressure environments.

Round flanges employ various sealing mechanisms, including raised-face, flat-face, and ring-type joint (RTJ) gaskets. These sealing options offer flexibility and efficiency in maintaining tight seals across different pressure and temperature conditions.

Structural & Functional Differences

Square flanges are advantageous in space-constrained environments due to their compact, angular design. This feature makes them ideal for installations where space optimization is critical.

Round flanges benefit from widespread standardization through ASME and EN standards, ensuring interchangeability and ease of sourcing. This standardization supports their dominant presence in global markets and facilitates their integration into various piping systems.

Square flanges are particularly suited for high-pressure hydraulic connections, providing robust performance in applications where hydraulic integrity is paramount. Round flanges, while versatile, cater to a broader range of industrial needs, including oil and gas, HVAC, and chemical processing.

Industry Preferences

Square flanges are favored in industries such as mining, heavy machinery, and Japanese-standard hydraulic systems. Their design and materials make them reliable for high-pressure applications needing custom configurations.

Round flanges are ubiquitous in the oil and gas industry, HVAC systems, and international piping projects. Their compliance with ASME and EN standards ensures their adaptability and reliability in diverse industrial applications.

Comparative Analysis: Square vs Round Flanges

Characteristics of Round Flanges

Round flanges are circular components used to connect pipes and equipment in various industrial systems, providing efficient load distribution and enhanced sealing capabilities. Their design is particularly advantageous for applications involving cyclical loading and fluid dynamics. The circular symmetry of round flanges ensures efficient load distribution and enhances sealing capabilities, reducing stress concentration points and improving fatigue resistance.

• Pressure Resistance: Round flanges are highly effective in high-pressure environments due to their continuous curved design, which distributes pressure uniformly and helps prevent leaks.
• Material: These flanges are commonly made from carbon steel or stainless steel, offering excellent corrosion resistance.
• Aesthetics and Applications: Round flanges are often chosen for applications where aesthetics are important, as their smooth and uniform appearance is visually appealing. They are also preferred in situations where fluid flow dynamics are critical.

Comparison Points

To better understand the differences between square and round flanges, it is helpful to compare key features directly:

Key Considerations for Round Flanges

• Design and Functionality: The circular design of round flanges benefits applications where fluid flow is critical, as it reduces turbulence and ensures smooth dynamics.
• Performance Under Pressure: The ability of round flanges to distribute pressure evenly makes them suitable for high-pressure environments, maintaining connection integrity over time.
• Material Selection: While both square and round flanges can be made from similar materials, the design of round flanges reduces stress concentrations, making them more durable in demanding conditions.

Application Scenarios

Square and round flanges are essential in industrial piping systems, each serving unique purposes based on their design and functionality.

Square Flanges

Square flanges are often employed where space constraints or specific alignment needs are present. Their right-angle geometry simplifies alignment, making installation more straightforward in tight spaces. They are ideal for mounting pipes flush against walls or other surfaces. The even load distribution offered by square flanges enhances stability, making them ideal for systems that require robust support.

Round Flanges

Round flanges are preferred in general industrial piping applications due to their standardized dimensions and ease of integration into existing systems. Their circular shape evenly distributes stress, crucial for maintaining system integrity under varying pressures. This makes round flanges suitable for applications where high-pressure resistance and reliable sealing are essential, such as in chemical processing plants and fluid handling systems.

High-Pressure Environments

Square Flanges

Square flanges are advantageous in high-pressure systems that require precise alignment and robust load distribution. Their design helps minimize the risk of leaks and enhances the overall stability of the connection. This makes them suitable for hydraulic systems and other applications where high-pressure resistance is critical. Square flanges can also be customized for high-pressure environments, ensuring top performance and safety.

Round Flanges

Round flanges are inherently well-suited for high-pressure environments due to their continuous design, which reduces stress concentration points and enhances fatigue resistance. They are often used in high-pressure piping systems where reliable sealing and efficient load distribution are paramount. The standardized nature of round flanges ensures consistent performance across different high-pressure applications, making them a reliable choice for industries such as oil and gas, petrochemicals, and power generation.

Space Constraints and Custom Applications

Square Flanges

In scenarios where space is limited, square flanges offer a practical solution due to their compact and angular design. Their ability to fit into tight spaces without compromising the integrity of the connection makes them ideal for custom applications in confined areas. This is particularly relevant in machinery and equipment that require precise mounting configurations. The customization potential of square flanges also allows them to be tailored to specific design requirements, providing flexibility in various industrial settings.

Round Flanges

Although less adaptable to space constraints, round flanges’ standardized design and wide availability suit many applications. In custom applications where fluid dynamics and seamless integration are critical, round flanges excel due to their ability to provide efficient load distribution and minimize turbulence. Their widespread use and compliance with established standards also facilitate easier sourcing and implementation in custom piping solutions.

Industry-Specific Application Guidelines

Structural Stability and Load Distribution

Square and round flanges each have unique benefits that make them suitable for different industry applications.

Square Flanges

Square flanges excel in applications requiring even load distribution and rigid structural support. Their right-angle geometry ensures balanced force dispersion, making them ideal for heavy-load scenarios, such as shipbuilding and agricultural irrigation. Additionally, hydraulic systems and industrial pipeline networks often utilize square flanges for their ability to maintain structural integrity under substantial pressure and load.

Round Flanges

Round flanges leverage circular symmetry to minimize stress concentrations, enhancing fatigue resistance in systems with cyclic loading. This characteristic makes them suitable for applications involving rotating machinery and fluid dynamics, where repeated stress cycles are common. The even stress distribution provided by round flanges reduces the risk of fatigue failure, ensuring long-term durability in dynamic environments.

Pressure and Temperature Performance

Both square and round flanges are designed to handle varying pressure and temperature conditions, but their performance characteristics differ based on their geometry.

Square Flanges

Square flanges are known for their high-pressure tolerance, with certain types, such as KAB flanges, capable of withstanding pressures up to 350 kg/cm². Their angular rigidity also aids in controlling temperature changes, making them suitable for high-temperature industrial processes. This combination of high-pressure and temperature resistance makes square flanges a reliable choice for demanding environments where maintaining connection integrity is critical.

Round Flanges

Round flanges offer superior sealing efficiency under uniform radial pressure, reducing leakage risks in high-pressure fluid systems. Their design is particularly effective in thermal cycling environments, where even stress distribution helps manage temperature-induced expansions and contractions. This makes round flanges an excellent choice for applications where consistent sealing performance and thermal stability are essential.

Material and Customization Flexibility

Both square and round flanges commonly use carbon steel and stainless steel. Carbon steel is favored for general-purpose applications due to its strength and cost-effectiveness, while stainless steel is chosen for its corrosion resistance in harsh environments.

Square Flange Customization

Square flanges offer adjustable bolt hole patterns and dimensions, allowing for precise alignment in complex layouts. This customization is particularly beneficial in structural engineering projects where specific design requirements must be met.

Round Flange Adaptability

Round flanges, with their continuous circular design, can accommodate variable system requirements without compromising seal integrity. This adaptability makes them suitable for a wide range of industrial applications, from chemical processing to fluid handling systems. The standardized nature of round flanges also simplifies sourcing and implementation, ensuring reliable performance across different settings.

Leak Prevention and Maintenance

Square Flanges

Square flanges typically feature flat-face designs with gaskets that provide tight seals. However, meticulous installation is required to avoid corner gaps that could lead to localized leakage. Ensuring uniform bolt tension is crucial to maintaining the integrity of the seal. Regular inspections and maintenance are necessary to ensure ongoing performance in high-pressure environments.

Round Flanges

Round flanges, particularly raised-face variants, concentrate gasket pressure to enhance seal durability in high-vibration systems. Their self-aligning properties reduce maintenance frequency, making them suitable for dynamic operational environments.

Case Studies

Square Flange Implementation in High-Pressure Systems

In high-pressure systems, square flanges have demonstrated significant advantages, especially in applications that demand strong structural stability. A notable case study involves their use in a hydraulic system within a heavy machinery manufacturing plant. The square flanges were selected due to their ability to distribute load evenly across right angles, which provided enhanced stability and reduced the risk of mechanical failure under high-pressure conditions.

The geometric design of the square flange made installation easier, facilitating precise alignment and minimizing installation errors. The right-angled structure allowed for easier bolting and secure connections, reducing the likelihood of leaks and enhancing overall system reliability. This application highlighted the square flange’s suitability for environments where structural integrity is paramount, such as in the construction of pressure vessels and heavy-duty hydraulic equipment.

Round Flange Usage in Custom Piping Solutions

Round flanges have been effectively utilized in custom piping solutions, especially when fluid dynamics and sealing efficiency are crucial. A case study in a chemical processing plant illustrates the advantages of round flanges in handling cyclical loads and maintaining seal integrity under varying pressure conditions. The plant needed a piping system that could handle large fluid volumes efficiently and minimize leak risks.

The round flanges provided a continuous circular seal, which distributed stress evenly and enhanced fatigue resistance. This design feature proved essential in maintaining consistent sealing performance, even with frequent pressure fluctuations. Additionally, the standardized dimensions of the round flanges facilitated easy integration into the existing piping infrastructure, reducing installation time and costs.

Transition Applications: Square to Round Flanges

In scenarios requiring the adaptation of different flange geometries, transition flanges have been employed to connect square and round flanges effectively. A practical example is found in an industrial pipeline system where space constraints necessitated the use of square flanges, but the fluid handling sections required the sealing efficiency of round flanges.

The transition flanges served as a bridge, accommodating the geometric differences and maintaining system integrity. While these transitions increased the assembly’s height slightly, they ensured seamless connectivity without compromising pressure containment. These applications highlight the importance of well-designed transition components in systems using mixed flange geometries.

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are answers to some frequently asked questions:

What are the structural advantages of round flanges over square ones?

Round flanges offer several structural advantages over square flanges that enhance their performance and suitability for various applications. Firstly, the circular symmetry of round flanges ensures even distribution of stress around the flange, reducing stress concentration points that can lead to material failure. This symmetry also enhances fatigue resistance, making round flanges more durable in applications with repeated stress cycles.

In terms of sealing capabilities, round flanges provide a continuous 360-degree sealing surface, which ensures a reliable seal and minimizes the risk of leaks. This is particularly beneficial in fluid-handling systems where maintaining a tight seal is crucial. Additionally, the absence of corners in round flanges reduces turbulence within the piping system, optimizing fluid flow and minimizing pressure drops.

Round flanges are also versatile in terms of material options, including carbon steel for strength, stainless steel for corrosion resistance, and alloy steel for high-pressure applications. Their design simplifies installation and maintenance, allowing for quick assembly and disassembly, which reduces operational downtime.

When should I use square flanges instead of round ones?

Square flanges should be used instead of round ones in scenarios requiring enhanced structural stability and precise alignment. Their geometric design offers better resistance to torsional forces and more even load distribution, making them ideal for applications in structural engineering, hydraulic systems, and high-pressure environments. Additionally, the flat edges of square flanges simplify installation and alignment, particularly in systems with rectangular or angular piping configurations, reducing errors and speeding up assembly. Square flanges are also preferred in high-pressure and high-temperature environments due to their robust construction, which minimizes stress concentration. They are suitable for industries prioritizing modular design or visual appeal, such as architectural projects and food processing facilities, where customization and aesthetic needs are important. However, it’s worth noting that square flanges may require more installation space and can pose sealing challenges if not installed properly.

How does flange shape affect sealing performance?

Flange shape significantly impacts sealing performance due to differences in stress distribution and gasket interaction. Round flanges, with their circular symmetry, provide uniform stress distribution when bolted, leading to even gasket compression and reducing the risk of leakage. This uniformity is particularly advantageous in high-pressure systems, as it ensures consistent sealing efficiency and minimizes potential leak paths.

In contrast, square flanges tend to concentrate stress at the corners, resulting in uneven gasket compression. This unevenness can lead to higher leakage risks, especially in applications where the flange is subjected to varying pressures. Additionally, square flanges often require custom-cut gaskets to fit their shape, which can introduce further sealing challenges and increase the likelihood of improper gasket seating.

How do pressure ratings differ between square and round flanges?

Pressure ratings for square and round flanges differ primarily due to their geometric design and stress distribution characteristics. Round flanges, with their circular symmetry, ensure uniform pressure distribution across the flange, minimizing stress concentration points and enhancing fatigue resistance. This makes round flanges particularly suitable for high-pressure systems, such as those found in petrochemical plants and high-pressure hydraulics. They typically handle higher pressure ratings more effectively, adhering to standardized ASME B16.5 classes, such as Class 400 and above, which can withstand pressures of 800 psi at 500°F.

On the other hand, square flanges, due to their right-angle geometry, prioritize load stability but are less effective in handling high-pressure environments. The corners of square flanges can create uneven stress distribution, which may limit their performance under sustained high pressure. Consequently, square flanges are generally used in low to mid-pressure systems and structural applications where alignment stability is crucial.

What are the installation best practices for different flange shapes?

When installing different flange shapes, adhering to best practices ensures a secure and leak-free connection. For round flanges, which are widely used, proper alignment with the pipe ends is crucial. Ensure the bolt holes in the flanges and pipe align perfectly to prevent uneven stress distribution. Center the gasket on the flange surface to prevent leakage, and tighten bolts in a star pattern to achieve consistent torque across all bolts. Thoroughly clean the flange surfaces to remove debris and old gasket material, enhancing the seal.

Square flanges, used in specific applications, require careful alignment with the mounting surface or pipe end. Use a gasket that fits snugly within the square flange, possibly securing it with adhesive if it lacks bolt holes. Tighten bolts consistently, although the pattern may vary based on the specific design. Ensure the square flange is securely fastened to its mounting surface, which may involve custom bolts or fasteners.