A Van Stone flange is fitted ___________ on a pipe.

A Van Stone flange is designed to be installed loosely on a pipe. This specific fitting allows for easy alignment and adjustment during the installation process. The loose fit helps accommodate any misalignments in the piping system and reduces the risk of damage to the flange or pipe during assembly.

The design of the Van Stone flange features a raised face that allows it to be clamped down securely while maintaining the necessary positional flexibility. This is particularly beneficial in applications where pipes may expand due to temperature changes or where vibration might occur.

In this context, other fitting methods like tack welding or using set screws could lead to a more rigid and potentially problematic connection, especially when dealing with thermal expansion or alignment issues. Hence, the loose installation method provided by the Van Stone flange is advantageous in various piping applications.