Expansion Joint Basics

Piping and ducting systems are constantly subjected to stresses arising from thermal expansion and mechanical growth. Thermal expansion refers to the phenomenon where materials either expand or contract in response to variations in temperature. Mechanical growth is induced by pressure fluctuations that occur during the startup or shutdown phases of a piping system. The inherent rigidity of pipes and their connections restricts their ability to accommodate these movements, resulting in undue stress on the materials. Over time, such stress can lead to fatigue and, ultimately, the failure of mechanical components within the piping system. The replacement of these mechanical parts can incur significant costs. To mitigate these issues, expansion joints are employed, facilitating movement and helping to localize stresses within a small, easily replaceable component. Expansion joints are available in various designs and materials.

Rubber Expansion Joints

Rubber expansion joints serve as a cost-efficient solution for safeguardconcentric rubber expansion jointing and directing movement to specific areas. These joints are constructed from various grades of polymers, with some being more prevalent than others. The choice of polymer or rubber is influenced by both the internal and external conditions of the application. For example, ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) is frequently utilized for expansion joints; however, it is unsuitable for use with hydrocarbon-based substances. In such cases, neoprene is the preferred material for expansion joints when dealing with oils, gasoline, and other petroleum-derived fluids. Selecting the appropriate polymer is essential for ensuring the durability of the expansion joint.

Metal Bellows Expansion Joints

Certain applications may not be suitable for rubber expansion joints. Frequently, systems necessitate temperature tolerances or pressures that exceed the capabilimetal expansion jointties of rubber expansion joints. In such cases, metal bellows expansion joints provide enhanced pressure and temperature tolerances, as well as resistance to specific media, while effectively safeguarding the system by isolating movements and vibrations within the expansion joint’s structure.

Metal bellows expansion joints are constructed from high-quality metals, including various grades of stainless steel, along with specialized materials such as Inconel® and Monel®. These joints can be designed with either single or double-ply bellows and can be installed using various methods, including weld-in nipples, fixed flanges, floating or Van Stone flanges, and raised face flanges. Additionally, configurations may feature dual bellows and externally pressurized designs.

PTFE Lined Expansion JointsPTFE Expansion Joints

PTFE expansion joints, often known by the trademark TEFLON™, can be integrated with metal or rubber expansion joints to improve their overall performance. The chemical resistance characteristics of PTFE render it particularly suitable for use with acidic or caustic chemicals and other substances.

Fabric Expansion Joints

Certain applications necessitate significant movement flexibility, elevated temperatures, and low pressures. In such cases, fabric expansion joints serve as the optimal solution. Ducting systems in power plants, concrete manufacturing facilities, and various other industries transport high-temperature gasefabric expansion jointss under low-pressure conditions. Our fabric expansion joints are engineered with robust steel frames and advanced belts, enabling substantial movement and high-temperature resistance while ensuring system integrity. Fabric expansion joints come in a variety of frame designs and belt configurations. The selection of the belt type is influenced by both external and internal environmental factors, similar to the considerations for rubber expansion joints.