Expansion Joints are used in piping systems to absorb thermal expansion or terminal movement where the use of expansion loops is undesirable or impracticable or there is vibration or noise reduction required. Pipe Expansion Joints are available in all standard pipe sizes and a range of materials depending on the application. A bellow is made up of a series of one or more convolutions, with the shape of the convolution designed to withstand the internal pressures of the pipe, but flexible enough to accept the axial, lateral and /or angular deflections. The most common styles are detailed below.
Pipe Expansion Joints are also known as “compensators” as they compensate for the thermal movement.
Single Sphere Expansion Joint
Rubber Expansion joints provide superior movement capability in axial compression, axial extension and lateral deflection, as well as in the angular and torsional direction. This performance cannot be obtained with metallic joints or grooved couplings. They contain floating flanges (non fixed) to allow for easy alignment in a range of materials including 316 Stainless Steel, Mild Steel and Galv Coated. Also available with Control / Tie Rods to enhance its pressure capability in unanchored systems, and to control the movement of the joint.
Twin Sphere Expansion Joint
Twin Sphere Rubber Expansion joints are ideal for applications requiring large axial, lateral and angular movements. They contain floating flanges (non fixed) to allow for easy alignment in a range of materials including 316 Stainless Steel, Mild Steel and Galv Coated.
PTFE Expansion Joints
PTFE Expansion Joints are flexible connectors and tremor barriers designed to compensate for misalignments absorb expansion and contraction, and isolate vibration and shock in process piping, tanks and pumps. PTFE expansion joints have a proven record worldwide handling the chemical process I industry’s most corrosive pipe stress problems. They are formed from isostatically moulded, FDA approved, virgin PTFE resin. PTFE Expansion Joints have almost universal chemical inertness, high and low temperature resistance, invulnerability to ozone and sunlight, outstanding flex life.
Metal Expansion Joints
Metal Expansion joints or Exhaust Bellows are the most important part of an exhaust system as they act as a shock absorber isolating engine vibration from exhaust systems to avoid metal fatigue and ultimate failure. The bellow is made up of a series of convolutions which assist in the axial and lateral movements.
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