EZ Vent® Slip Blind
Enhance downstream safety with our vented paddle blind - Available to Rent or Purchase.
Unlike typical paddle blinds that block flow on both sides, the EZ Vent bleeder blind allows you to block flow on one side while providing access to relieve or purge the other. This makes downstream work safer, especially in the case of a leaking upstream valve.
Also known as Vented Blind Flanges, Vent Blinds, Bleeder Blinds, and Ported Blinds, they are useful when there's no valve near your work location. It's the easiest way to confirm zero energy in the line, vent off leaked pressure from upstream valves, or create an entry point for hydrotesting.
EZ VENT SLIP BLIND PRODUCT FEATURES & BENEFITS:
- Block one side of the flange while venting the other side.
- Verify, and/or relieve line pressure.
- Easy entry point for hydrotesting.
- Testing point for hydrocarbons and other gases.
- Multiple ports can be added; venting one or both sides.
- Available in Ring Type Joint (RTJ), and with NPT or SW ports.
- Blind can be rated. (with additional thickness for vent)
- Available as a spectacle or paddle blind.
VENTED PADDLE BLIND USES:
- Pressure Equalization. In some pipeline systems, it's essential to equalize pressure on both sides of the blind before removing it. A vented paddle blind allows for controlled release of pressure buildup, ensuring safe working conditions during maintenance or repair activities.
- Fluid Draining. A vented paddle blind enables the draining of fluids trapped in the section of the pipeline that the blind is blocking. This is particularly useful during maintenance operations where it's necessary to remove fluids from the pipeline to perform repairs or modifications.
- Gas or Vapor Venting. In systems where gases or vapors are present, using a vented paddle blind helps to safely release trapped gases or vapors, preventing pressure buildup that could lead to safety hazards or equipment damage.
- Hydrostatic Testing. During hydrostatic testing of pipelines, it's common to use a vented paddle blind to facilitate filling and draining of the pipeline section being tested. The vent allows for controlled filling and emptying of the pipeline, ensuring accurate testing results and preventing overpressurization.
- Pressure Relief. A vented paddle blind can serve as pressure relief devices in certain pipeline systems. If pressure exceeds safe operating limits, the vent allows for controlled release, preventing potential damage to the pipeline or associated equipment.
- Preventing Vacuum Formation. In some cases, removing a blind from a pipeline can create a vacuum, which may lead to operational issues or damage to the pipeline. Using a vented paddle blind helps prevent the formation of a vacuum by allowing air to enter the pipeline gradually as the blind is removed.
Note: USA Industries positions all NPTs 180° from the handle. The handle typically points up, and the port drains down. Specify custom NPT port placement when ordering.
We offer product demos upon request. Ask for an EZ Vent product demo, and our specialists will visit your site to demonstrate how to enhance safety without extending job completion time.
NEED SAFE & SECURE PADDLE BLIND STORAGE?
Check Out USA Industries' Patented EZ Lock Blind Rack®!
Pipe Schedule Chart Link
Blind Thickness Chart Link
Carbon vs. Stainless Link
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, multiple ports can easily be added, and we can add them on both sides upon request! Please specify how many and whether you want them on the upstream or downstream side of the blinds on your quote request.
Sometimes. For every NPT or Socketweld blind, there is a minimum thickness required, which is also determined by whether or not the blind needs to be rated for pressure. We can easily make your blind thicker to meet custom needs.
No, since the smallest tap size is 1/8" NPT or SW (which would require a .410 hole) it would need to be a minimum of 1/2" thick.
No. Our internal standard is to place the port at approximately 180 degrees from the handle with no interference between the connection and the bolts. However, if you need the connection point in a different location on the blind, we can manufacture it to your specs.
When requesting an alternate port placement, we recommend that you specify where in relation to the handle you would like the port(s) to be located (ie. approximately 90 Degrees from handle) and note that the vent must be located between bolt holes.
Yes! We can completely customize blind thicknesses to your needs.
Our EZ Vent blinds are easily identified by the "V" notch that we place in the top of the handle.
We always identify the vented side of the EZ Vent blind for you by marking it "EZ VENT," "EZVB," or "VENT" on the handle. Regardless, the vented side will always be the side with text markings. If you would like us to mark it in some other fashion for your needs that's EZ!
They are available for either rental or purchase, depending on your needs. Some restrictions apply.
Yes, just let us know your requirements. We can completely customize our products to your needs, and we regularly finish our blinds with a Machined 125-250 rms finish or an RTJ (RJ) for the gasket area.
Absolutely. We manufacture our EZ Vent Blinds and Spectacle blinds in house, and we're happy to put a port in a spectacle blind of any size or rating.