In industrial and marine piping systems, valves play a critical role in ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable flow control. However, choosing the right valve end connection is just as important as selecting the valve type itself. The three most common valve end connections—flanged, threaded, and socket weld—each come with their own advantages, limitations, and ideal use cases.

For procurement engineers, plant operators, and technical buyers, understanding these differences is key to making informed decisions that balance safety, cost, maintainability, and performance. At Aik Soon Hardware Pte Ltd, a trusted Singapore-based stockist of marine and industrial valves, we support customers with a wide inventory of valves across all connection types, ensuring the right fit for every application.

1. Flanged End Valves

What They Are

Flanged ends feature projecting rims (flanges) that are bolted together with a gasket in between, ensuring a tight seal. They are widely used in industrial, offshore, and marine settings where robust, leak-proof connections are required.

When to Use

• Large-diameter pipelines (typically >2”)

• High-pressure and high-temperature systems

• Applications requiring frequent maintenance, inspection, or replacement

• Environments with vibration or movement (e.g., marine engines, offshore rigs)

Pros

• Easy to install and remove for maintenance

• Strong, reliable sealing capability

• Suitable for both low- and high-pressure conditions

• Can handle thermal cycling and vibration well

Cons

• Bulkier and heavier than other end types

• More expensive due to flange machining and bolting requirements

• Requires more installation space

2. Threaded End Valves

What They Are

Threaded end valves use internal (female) or external (male) threads to screw directly into the piping system. They are more common in small-bore, low- to medium-pressure systems.

When to Use

• Small-diameter pipelines (usually ≤2”)

• Low-pressure and non-critical applications

• Temporary or semi-permanent systems

• Cost-sensitive projects

Pros

• Cost-effective and widely available

• Simple installation without special equipment

• Compact and lightweight design

• Suitable for low-pressure applications

Cons

• Threads may wear over time, leading to leaks

• Not suitable for high-pressure or high-temperature systems

• Difficult to disassemble once installed (risk of galling or thread damage)

• Limited to small pipe sizes

3. Socket Weld End Valves

What They Are

Socket weld valves are welded directly into the pipeline by inserting the pipe into a socket on the valve end and applying a fillet weld. This creates a permanent, leak-proof connection.

When to Use

• High-pressure, high-temperature services

• Critical applications requiring strength and durability

• Systems where leakage cannot be tolerated

• Situations where space is limited and compact design is required

Pros

• Very strong and leak-proof connection

• Suitable for high-pressure systems

• Compact design with no need for large flanges

• Better fatigue resistance compared to threaded ends

Cons

• Permanent installation – difficult to remove or replace

• Requires skilled welding and inspection

• Not ideal for systems needing frequent disassembly

• Heat from welding may affect valve material properties if not done properly

4. Key Considerations for Choosing the Right End Connection

When selecting between flanged, threaded, and socket weld valves, engineers and procurement specialists should weigh the following factors:

• Pipe size and system pressure – Larger diameters and higher pressures favor flanged or socket weld ends.

• Maintenance requirements – Systems needing frequent disassembly favor flanged ends.

• Cost vs performance trade-off – Threaded valves are more economical but limited in scope.

• Safety and reliability – Socket weld connections are highly reliable but less flexible for maintenance.

• Installation environment – Marine and offshore applications often require flanged or socket weld due to vibration, pressure, and safety concerns.

Conclusion

Each valve end connection—flanged, threaded, or socket weld—has unique strengths and trade-offs. Flanged ends provide versatility and ease of maintenance, threaded ends offer cost-effectiveness for smaller applications, and socket weld ends ensure unmatched durability for high-pressure systems.

At Aik Soon Hardware Pte Ltd, we carry an extensive inventory of valves with all three end connection types, supporting diverse needs across marine, offshore, oil & gas, and industrial sectors. Our team of experts is ready to help you identify the best solution for your application.

👉 Contact us today to discuss your valve requirements and ensure your systems run with reliability and confidence.