What We Need to Know About Your Expansion Joint Application:
- Medium
- Medium pressure
- Medium temperature
- Expected movements or vibrations (Axial, Lateral, Angular, Torsion)
- Diameter of the pipe where the expansion joint will be installed
- Material of the pipe where the expansion joint will be installed
What We Need to Know About Your Desired Expansion Joint:
- Desired installation length of the expansion joint
- Process connection of the expansion joint
- Inner tube/flare pipe desired
- Any additional options
Metal Expansion Joint
At Ebora, you can explore our range of metal expansion joints, available in stainless steel or steel with bellows made of stainless steel. These expansion joints offer advantages such as:
- Good chemical resistance
- Very long lifespan
- Various mounting options (flanges, flare pipes, threads, etc.)
Rubber Expansion Joint
Our rubber expansion joint comes mainly with flanges, and a version with threaded ends is also possible. The choice of rubber material depends on the medium flowing through the pipe. The temperature resistance of the rubber expansion joint is lower than that of the metal expansion joint, ranging from -30°C to approximately 120°C, depending on the chosen rubber type. Advantages of a rubber expansion joint include:
- Short installation length
- Good vibration and noise insulation
- Easy to install
Expansion Joint Installation and Maintenance
Proper installation and maintenance are essential for the optimal performance and longevity of expansion joints. Follow these guidelines to ensure your expansion joint functions effectively:
Installation:
- Conduct a visual inspection upon receiving the expansion joint to ensure it is undamaged.
- Avoid using transport fittings, tie rods, hinges, or universal joints to lift the expansion joint.
- Store the expansion joint on a flat, sturdy surface in a clean and dry environment.
During Installation:
- Protect the expansion joint from welding splatters and dirt during welding or grinding.
- Ensure no unintended sparks occur near the expansion joint's thin-walled bellows.
- Be cautious with tools to avoid damaging the bellows when tightening bolts.
After Installation:
- Inspect the completed system before pressure testing to ensure it matches the design.
- Carefully check for any residual test liquid in the bellows after pressure testing.
Pressure Test:
- Conduct the pressure test gradually until reaching the specified test pressure.
- Check for leaks at connections and monitor pressure drop.
- Examine the bellows for signs of twisting, instability, or unexpected movement.
After Pressure Testing:
The expansion joint and piping system should remain as designed. Check if anchors and their attachments to civil works or structures show no signs of distress. Note that some residual test fluid may remain in the bellows after testing.
Avoid:
- Dropping the bellows.
- Using cleaning agents containing chlorides.
- Using steel wool or brushes on the bellows.
Expansion Joint Maintenance:
A correctly sized and installed expansion joint requires minimal maintenance. Regularly inspect the entire piping system throughout its lifespan, checking for rust, loose components, etc. The frequency of these inspections depends on the system's function, applied loads, etc.
Common Causes of Expansion Joint Failures:
- Shipping and handling damage
- Installation damage and errors
- Operational damage
Remember that the above guidelines cannot guarantee damage prevention but significantly reduce the risk. Familiarizing yourself with potential failure causes can be helpful, considering that expansion joints have diverse applications and designs tailored for specific purposes.
