1. Expansion joints(compensators)
Expansion joints, also known as compensators, are vital components
in managing structural integrity under varying thermal and
mechanical conditions. They typically comprise one or more
bellows—an elastic element functioning as the primary compensating
mechanism—accompanied by end connectors, supports, flanges,
conduits, and other ancillary components. Installed in vessel
shells or pipelines, these flexible structures are engineered to
alleviate stresses induced by temperature fluctuations and
mechanical vibrations.
The primary function of expansion joints is to accommodate the
dimensional alterations within the systems they are part of, such
as pipelines, conduits, and vessels. These changes often result
from thermal expansion and contraction. Additionally, expansion
joints manage axial, lateral, and angular displacements that can
impact system functionality. Beyond structural compensation, they
play crucial roles in mitigating noise and vibration, particularly
in heating supply systems. To prevent damage from thermal expansion
or stress during heating cycles, compensators are strategically
installed within pipelines, thereby minimizing the load on pipeline
walls and mitigating force exertion on valves and support
structures.
Owing to their intrinsic elasticity that allows for free expansion
and contraction, expansion joints are recognized for their reliable
performance, durability, and compact design. This has led to their
widespread application across various industries, including
chemical engineering, metallurgy, and nuclear energy. Within these
sectors, different forms of expansion joints are deployed based on
the specific requirements of the vessel or pipeline. The most
commonly utilized shapes include U-shaped, Ω-shaped, and C-shaped
bellows. From a structural compensation perspective, expansion
joints are categorized into several types, namely universal
expansion joints, pressure balanced expansion joints, hinged
expansion joints, and gimbal expansion joints, each tailored to
specific operational needs and environmental conditions. This
diversity in design and function underscores the critical role of
expansion joints in modern industrial applications.
| Main Item | Classification | Description |
Metal Expansion Joint | ElbowExpansion Joint | Tension bends, shaped into U or other forms, are expansion joints
that use elastic deformation for compensation. Advantages include
robust strength, durability, and adaptability for on-site
production. However, they are space-intensive, require substantial
steel, and produce high friction resistance. Commonly, these joints
are employed in steam piping and extensive pipeline systems. |
Bellows Expansion Joint
| Bellows expansion joints are flexible, metal-constructed connectors
that can expand, contract, and bend slightly along the axial
direction. They feature protective rods or rings and guide supports
to manage movement and prevent over-extension. These joints are
compact, cost-effective, and suitable for mass production, but have
a shorter lifespan compared to other types. Typically used in
low-pressure, short pipelines, their applications are growing with
advances in manufacturing, supporting pressures up to 6.0 MPa. They
are particularly useful for managing rotational and lateral
pipeline deformations. |
Slip-Type Expansion Joint | Slip-type expansion joints feature a design with inner and outer
sleeves that allow axial movement and rotation to accommodate
thermal expansion in pipelines. These joints are sealed with a
stuffing box to prevent leaks and ensure that the pipes remain
aligned. Notable for their compact size and substantial
compensation capability, they are ideal for handling hot water,
steam, and oily media. Utilizing high-performance synthetic
materials for seals, these joints provide durability, high
temperature tolerance (up to 350 degrees Celsius under special
conditions), and corrosion resistance. They effectively manage
axial expansion and ensure reliable sealing in dynamic conditions. |
Non-metallic Expansion Joint | Rubber Expansion Joint | Rubber expansion joints, consisting of rubber and rubber-fiber
materials along with steel flanges and sleeves, serve as flexible
connectors for fans and ducts. They are primarily used to absorb
shocks, reduce noise, seal, and resist various media. These joints
facilitate easy installation and displacement, making them perfect
for environmental protection applications, especially in systems
that handle smoke and dust. |
Fabric Expansion Joint | Fabric expansion joints are crafted from fiber fabric, rubber, and
other materials resistant to high temperatures. They address
vibrations and structural deformations in fans and ducts,
compensating for axial, lateral, and angular shifts. These joints
feature no thrust, corrosion resistance, high temperature
tolerance, and sound and vibration damping, making them ideal for
power plants' hot blast and dust pipelines. Their simple,
lightweight design allows for straightforward maintenance. |
Super Austenitic Stainless Steel:254SMO,904L,AL6XN
Duplex Stainless Steel :2205
Dual phase steel (S31803)
Nickel Based Alloy
Steel:INCOLOY800/800H/800HT/840/825,INCONEL600/601/690/625/X-750
Hastelloy Alloy C-276/C-22/X,MONEL400/K500
Pure Nickel:N4,N6(Ni200,Ni201)
Titanium Plate For Stamping:GR1,GR2,TA1,TA2
Austenitic Stainless
Steel:SUS304,SUS304L,SUS316,SUS316L,SUS310S,SUS321,SUS316Ti
2. Metal Expansion joints(compensators)
- Bellows Expansion Joint-----United Expansion Joint
- Bellows Expansion Joint-----Tied Bellows Expansion Joint
- Bellows Expansion Joint-------Universal Hinged Expansion Joint
- Bellows Expansion Joint-------Pressure Balanced Bellows Expansion
Joints
- Bellows Expansion Joint-------External Pressurized Axial Expansion
Joint
- Slip-Type Expansion Joint
