WHEN TO USE
AN EXPANSION JOINT?

An Expansion Joint is a component that adds flexibility to the pipe system. When to use an Expansion Joint, how many and what type to use is determined by the piping layout and the operating parameters. Also the connected equipment is determining when to use them. Plant engineers, engineers and pipe designers routinely incorporate Expansion Joints into their pipe systems, as they, further to adding flexibility into the design, reduce costs through removing the complexity of fix points, guides and reduces the overall space requirements for the pipe system.
Further, they are more effective than alternatives such as pipe bends and pipe loops due to their greater ability to conserve space, their economic efficiency and better performance in absorbing larger movements. These advantages underline the choice.

 

Movements in the piping system, pressure issues and temperature changes determine when to use an Expansion Joint
What types is defined by the operating data, the pipe system and the connected equipment. For instance near turbines Pressure Balanced Expansion Bellows are often used to relieve the loads on the turbine and absorb movements. For exhaust systems, a more simple designed Expansion Joint are used – made from materials resistant to high temperatures. For pipe systems with limited space and limited options for fix points Angular Expansion Joints are used. These are just some of the many options and reasons.

 

It also raises the question: “Which one?“
Expansion Joints come in a variety of designs, materials and sizes. At Belman we design all types and in all sizes and materials to meet the needs of the client and project. Some of our latest projects illustrate some examples of designs made for clients who raised the question “When to use Expansion Joints and which one”.

 

More information about Belman and information that can support your choice:

• See our full range of Expansion Joints: Product range, which also gives access to the different designs and the advantages they bring.
• Our  Catalogue – where you can find much more information about when to use an Expansion Joint
• Who we are and what we do can be – to be read in our profile brochure and on the page about us.