Heavy Wall Expansion Joints with Weld Ends

HEAVY WALL EXPANSION JOINTS WITH WELD ENDS

Thick Wall Expansion Joints are the simplest type of expansion joints. They are compact requiring virtually no additional space beyond the length of bellows and weld ends or flanges for installation. They have further advantage of not imposing a change in the direction of flow. Where small thermal movements are involved and where proper anchoring and guiding is possible single axial bellows provide the most economical solution.
HEAVY WALL EXPANSION JOINTS WITH WELD ENDS
Thick Wall Expansion Joints are normally supplied without any end connections due to the fact that it is easier to weld the end fittings to them by a relatively less skilled welders. The heavy wall bellows are less susceptible to damage during installation and system start-up however these bellows possess high spring forces as a result of high convolution profile. The thickness of these thick wall bellows elements vary from 1 mm to 3 mm depending up on size and the height of convolution varies from 50 mm to 100 mm.


The bellows of a metal expansion joint is made up of one or more convolutions. The bellows provide stable, long-lasting, solutions to many problems involving harmonics, vibration, and high temperature expansion. The joint must be designed strong enough to accommodate the system design pressure, as well as, flexible enough to accept the design deflections for a calculated number of cycles.

Metal expansion joints are being successfully utilized in refineries, chemical plants, fossil and nuclear power systems, heating and cooling systems, and cryogenic plants. Service conditions have ranged from pressures of 25 microns to 1,000 PSIG and -420°F to +1800°F. These types of expansion joints are a highly engineered product and can perform their intended function safely and reliably.
Unlike most commonly used piping components, bellows are constructed of a relatively thin gauge material in order to provide the flexibility needed to absorb mechanical and thermal movement expected in service.

For selection of the proper metal expansion joint, the following steps should be followed:
1. Select applicable pipe size
2. Select applicable pressure range.
3. Determine type and amount of movement to be absorbed.
4. Select bellows (single or dual and number of convolutions) to satisfy deflection requirements.
5. Determine end fittings and hardware required.

Warning:
Expansion joints may operate in pipelines or equipment carrying fluids and/or gases at elevated temperatures and pressures. Precaution should be taken to insure proper installation and regular inspection. Care is required to protect personnel in the event of leakage or splash.

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