Which Expansion Joint is Right for You?
When it comes to piping and ventilation systems, it is crucial to know how to choose the right expansion joint for your specific needs. With so many types of expansion joints available, it can be difficult to determine which option is suitable for your system. This is especially true for complex systems, as you may need a custom solution instead of a pre-engineered expansion joint. Without the right expansion joint in place, your system may become unstable and unsafe. To help you determine which expansion joint is right for you, the team at Flextech Industries has compiled a list of important factors to consider before making a final decision.
Learn about 4 reasons to choose a custom expansion joint.
3 Factors to Consider When Choosing an Expansion Joint
Expansion joints can vary greatly from unit to unit in terms of size, pressure loads, and the materials used to construct them. When choosing an expansion joint for your system, you will need to consider the following factors:
1. The Materials Being Transferred
When choosing an expansion joint, it is crucial to consider the type of materials that will be transferred through it. This is important because certain types of gasses and liquids have specific requirements for the materials that can be used to contain and transfer them. For example, if you will be transferring chemicals, you will likely want to choose a PTFE expansion joint to ensure optimal safety.
2. Pressure, Flexing, and Temperature
Every expansion joint is designed to handle a different level of pressure, flexing, and temperature. Some expansion joints are designed to move with system vibrations or shifts in piping and ventilation while others are designed to be more rigid and handle fluctuations in system pressure. It is crucial to understand what your expansion joint will be used for and where it will be located to ensure that you are selecting the right solution. If you choose an expansion joint that is not suitable for the amount of pressure in your system or the temperature of the materials that pass through it, this can cause the joints to malfunction or the seals to break, rendering your system unsafe and inoperable.
3. Pre-Engineered or Custom
While most standard applications can effectively utilize pre-engineered expansion joints, certain applications may require a customized solution. By opting for a customized solution, you can ensure that you are getting an expansion joint that is perfectly tailored to your system, optimizing performance, safety, and longevity. To determine if your application would benefit from a custom solution, it is strongly recommended to contact a professional to discuss the details of your system.
To learn more about our selection of expansion joints or to discuss your specific requirements, get in touch with the team at Flextech Industries. We can be reached through our online contact form and will be happy to answer any questions you may have regarding our products.