Pipe Expansion Joint Types

Posted: August 16, 2018 | Category: Expansion Joints

Knowing the different pipe expansion joint types can help you make an informed decision about which product will work best for relieving pressure in your piping system. At Flextech Industries, we understand that selecting the right expansion joint is important when it comes to ensuring a reliable operation. That is why we offer a wide range of expansion joint products, including pre-engineered and custom created expansion joints.

Find out why piping needs expansion joints.

Types of Pipe Expansion Joints

Some of the different types of pipe expansion joints available to choose from include:

Metal Bellows

Metal bellows are elastic-like vessels that can easily be compressed when pressure is applied or extended under a vacuum, making them ideal for absorbing the thermal movement and vibration in piping systems that is being transported at a high temperature, such as vibration caused due to exhaust gases or steam. Some of the different types of metal bellows available are:

  • Duct Type
  • Dual
  • Expansion Compensators
  • Externally Pressurized
  • Hinged & Gimbal
  • Pump Connectors
  • Ring Controlled
  • Single
  • Universal

What are the differences between flex connectors and bellows?

Fabric Joints

Commonly used in industrial plants, fabric expansion joints are installed as flexible connections in duct and piping systems in order to take up or compensate for thermal expansion, vibration, or misalignment. Fabric expansion joints are available in a selection of different product types, such as:

  • FC Series Flouroplastic
  • FL Series Flouroplastic
  • M Series

Learn more about what a pipeline expansion joint is.

Rubber Joints

Rubber expansion joints are specifically designed to safely absorb vibrations, including those caused by the temperature-induced expansion and contraction of pipes. This type of expansion joint is available in sizes ranging from 1″-72″ and can help reduce noise caused by vibrations. Some of the different rubber expansion joints available include:

  • Concentric/Eccentric Reducer
  • Filled Arch
  • Offset
  • Rubber/PTFE Lined
  • Sleeve Type
  • Spherical
  • Spool Type
  • Wide Arch

PTFE Joints

PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene) expansion joints are the ideal solution for industrial piping applications that can be affected by erosive or corrosive environments. This means that this type of expansion joint can perform well in chemically reactive piping environments. PTFE expansion joints are available in a wide variety of different designs, sizes, and customized configurations, making it easy to find the perfect fit for your specific application.

If you would like to learn more about the different pipe expansion joint types, or if you are interested in one of our services or products (expansion joints, industrial dampers, flexible hoses, or piping accessories), please contact Flextech Industries at the location nearest you or by filling out a contact form on our website.