The difference between head and pipe cap

The main differences between pipe caps and heads are the application field, size range, pressure capacity, and manufacturing standards: the head is dedicated to the end of the pressure vessel, with large size, high pressure capacity, and strict container standards; pipe caps are used for pipe end closure, small size, low pressure, and manufactured according to pipeline standards. Although the two are similar in appearance, the design purpose and technical requirements are significantly different, and incorrect selection may lead to safety hazards. Definition and Use: The head is the end isolation element of pressure vessels (such as storage tanks and boilers) that need to withstand high pressure or high-risk media. The cap is the end plug of the pipeline system, used for temporary closure or to prevent foreign objects from entering, suitable for low-pressure non-hazardous environments. Size and Manufacturing: The head size is large (inner diameter 42mm~6000mm), usually pressed with steel plates, and the straight edge part is long. The pipe cap size is small (usually ≤ 300mm), can be forged, and there is no strict requirement for the transition part. Standards and pressure bearing: The head follows pressure vessel standards such as GB/T 25198, with a wide pressure bearing range (PN16~PN400+), and requires strength calculation and testing. The pipe cap follows pipe standards such as GB/T 12459, with low pressure (≤PN16), and does not require separate strength checking. Connection method: The head is multi-welded and fixed, and cannot be removed The pipe cap can be connected by threading, socket or weld and is partially removable

Tags: The difference between head and pipe cap