A flange is a protruding rim, edge, or collar, typically of metal, that is used to strengthen, attach, or provide a connection point. It often has holes drilled through it to allow for bolts or screws to fasten it to another component. Flanges are widely employed in plumbing, piping systems, machinery manufacturing, and many other industrial fields. For example, in a pipeline, flanges at the ends of pipe segments make it possible to join them together tightly, ensuring the leak-free conveyance of fluids or gases. They play a crucial role in maintaining the integrity and functionality of complex engineering setups.