Spectacle blind: a spade and spacer in one?
A spectacle blind is a combination of a spade blind and ring spacer that allows quick switching between an open and closed pipeline.
But what exactly is a spectacle blind, how does it work, and when should you use it? In this article, we explain it clearly.
What is a spectacle blind?
A spectacle blind is a mechanical isolation device used in piping systems to safely control the flow of liquids or gases. It consists of two parts permanently connected by a metal web: a solid blin and an open ring spacer. Its shape resembles a pair of spectacles, which is why it’s called a spectacle blind. The solid blind is used to completely block the pipeline, providing positive mechanical isolation during maintenance, inspections, or shutdowns. The ring spacer allows normal flow when the pipeline is back in operation. By rotating the spectacle blind between the flanges, operators can quickly switch between the open and closed positions without replacing separate components.
How is a spectacle blind used?
First of all, the spectacle blind must be mounted. When it is mounted for the first time, it can immediately be chosen whether the pipeline supply will be blocked or let through. Once this is decided, the spectacle blind can be mounted. Remove the nuts from the section of pipeline where the spectacle blind is to be placed. Then the bolts can be removed from the flange connection to insert the blind. Once the spectacle blind is mounted in the right place with a bolt through the middle, the other bolts and nuts can be screwed back onto the pipeline.
When do you choose a spectacle blind?
A spectacle blind has several advantages over spades and spacers. Because spectacle blinds remain attached to the pipeline even after maintenance, they do not need to be transported and stored. This saves time, space and, above all, effort. However, one must always consider the extra weight that will be placed on a pipeline when a spectacle blind is mounted to it. If weight or lack of space is an issue, it is better to choose a spade or spacer. Exposure to weather conditions, for example, must also be considered if a spectacle blind is chosen - if they remain mounted to a pipeline for a long time, they should be checked regularly for possible wear or damage.
Want to buy spectacle blinds?
Are you looking for a good spectacle blind? Then look no further than the specialists at Blindspades. We have a large and wide range of different spectacle blinds for you to choose from. Due to our extensive experience working with flanges, we have become very critical when it comes to quality. Only the best flanges are offered in our store. As a result of this good quality, the flanges last a lot longer on average. The spectacle blinds are available in DIN, ANSI and JIS versions. Therefore there is always a flange for you! Have you made your choice? Then quickly read how you can buy a flange. You can also order a spade, blind flange and drain flange in any size you need.
View spectacle blinds
