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Piping Technology & Products, Inc. offers a wide variety of
expansion joint products and services. If you are replacing an
existing joint which has performed for its expected life or if you
have completed your design for a new application, we can fabricate
and test the unit to your specifications. If you have an existing
expansion joint which has not performed in a satisfactory manner, we
can propose alternative designs for your consideration. When
necessary we will build prototypes and conduct tests to help
evaluate units prior to installation. Many of our expansion joints
are custom-made for a particular application. The general categories
we supply can be described by the materials used and the type of
movement provided for.
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12 " Multi-bellows Expansion Joint |
72" Thick wall expansion joint in fabrication |
20" Slip-type expansion joint |
Metal Bellows fabricated Expansion Joints
The convolutions in the bellows provide for axial, lateral, and
some angular movement in a system such as that of a pipeline
connecting pumps and vessels. Flanged-end or welded-end expansion
joints can be quickly fabricated using standard, off-the-shelf
bellows. Ties, hinges, or other accessories can be added to provide
for greater angular and lateral movements. Universal and double
expansion joints each use two bellows in their design. The number
and shape of the bellows, the metal used, and the degree to which
the joint must be able to move are the main factors in determining
the "wear-out" failure rate of these devices. Of course,
one event, a force or pressure well beyond the design limits, could
cause sudden failure.
Thick-wall Expansion Joints
These may be cost-effective for large-diameter piping systems
which operate at low pressure. Metals can be selected to satisfy
different temperature conditions. The distribution of axial,
angular, and lateral forces will be different when thick-wall
expansion joints are used. We can provide your design engineers with
the potential forces and movements for proper design of the
structural members supporting the system. These joints have a long
life which justifies the initial investment.
Fabric Expansion Joints
These are often used in ducts which carry hot gases at low
pressures. The major design parameters are the temperatures and flow
rates of the gases and the amount and abrasiveness of solids
suspended in the gases. Layers of different fabrics, insulation, and
metal foils can be combined to accommodate the temperatures and
pressures in the system. The fabric belt may need to be replaced
periodically.
Slip-type Expansion Joints
These are used when the primary problem is a large axial
movement. Materials can be selected to accommodate high temperatures
and pressures. Design details include selection of packing and
seals, and perhaps resistance to abrasive solids. Some applications
may require special surfaces to minimize abrasive wear. Special
features such as "wipers" can be included to prevent
potential clogging of the space provided for slip movement.
Installing Your Expansion Joints
Select a particular joint's size and shape to provide linkage to
the system where it is installed. Bolted flanges are often easy to
install. In some cases, it may be necessary to weld the expansion
joint into a pipe. We can fabricate alternative designs to satisfy
special requirements.
Selecting an Expansion Joint
When placing your order, you must provide information about the
size of your connecting system and the medium flowing in the system,
as well as the pressures, temperatures, and movements you expect the
joint will be subjected to during its service life. We look forward
to serving your needs.
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