Abstract: An intermediate, temperature reducing flange is inserted between an external steam (process) connection flange and first pressure vessel, or outer shell of a turbine or a second pressure vessel, or inner shell of the turbine. The temperature reducing flange has an integral portion that is exposed to an internal turbine area that is at a lower temperature than the steam in the steam inlet port of the turbine. This portion provides for a cooling effect, thus isolating the outer shell of the turbine from the high temperature of the steam pipe. Isolating the highest temperature connections from the remainder of the outer shell allows use of lower cost alloys for the outer shell.