noun

flange

FLANJ/flændʒ/

A projecting rim or collar that attaches or strengthens a part.

Bolts fasten the broad flange to the adjoining pipe.

Close-up of two metal pipe ends joined by broad projecting circular rims, with bolts fastening the rims together.

Etymology

Flange first meant a widening or branching out, before naming a projecting rim used for strength or guidance. Its origin is uncertain, so that recorded sense development is firmer than any proposed root connection.

In context

Park Tool7:29

every other spoke hole in the right flange should have a spoke head facing out

How To Build A Bicycle Wheel

More examples

The wheel's flange helped keep it on the rail.
A cracked flange weakened the connection.
The mechanic replaced the damaged metal flange.

Forms

flange · flanges

Similar words

rim: A rim is an edge; a flange projects outward for attachment, guidance, or reinforcement.
collar: A collar surrounds a part; a flange commonly extends as a projecting lip or rim.