In industrial plants some components (which should be considered of primary importance) are underestimated, we particularly see it in the expansion joints field.
As a matter of facts, the pipes are subject to frequent expansions, generated both by different temperatures and/or internal pressures, and by external movements.
In order to fully perform its functions (thermal abatement and mechanical resistance) the expansion joint must be correctly chosen and designed, according to the operating condition.
It is necessary to select the proper material to use : pressure drops and heat losses can cause low production performance , dangerous risks of environmental pollution and high operating costs
Fabric expansion joint
The fabric expansion joint is a flexible and strong component; it is not suitable for plants which carry liquids, because of the composition of its layers.
It is a connection between two piping portions, that avoids the transmission of vibrations and movements generated by gaseous fluids flowing.
It can withstand high temperatures even over 1000°C and compensate large movements.
The fabric expansion joint is made up of one or more layers of different materials, each one with a specific task.
There are materials designed for thermal abatement, others intended to withstand the corrosive attacks of fluids, others which ensure pressure tightness.
From the appropriate overlapping and/or combination of these materials, we obtain a stratification which has the suitable characteristics for any specific project condition. This is why the fabric expansion joint is very versatile.
This type of connection is mainly used to absorb the thermal expansions generated by the temperatures of fluids flowing inside the pipes. It can also be used as a connecting element between equipment and piping with anti-vibration function.
Therefore, unlike metal or rubber expansion joint, the fabric one is extremely flexible, but it is not elastic.
There is a clear proportion between movements, installation length and width and construction length and width.
In order to absorb the movement, the expansion joints are made wider than the installation width, so that the material can allow the device to work properly.
It is obvious that the wider the movements are, the greater the abundance of material must be, especially in the case of stretching movements.
They can be supplied complete with an internal bolster bag. The purpose of this insulation is to eliminate any dust deposits, to prevent damaging oscillations of expansion joint, caused by the pulsating pressures (thanks to their volume) and to provide a valid support to the expansion joint itself, preventing it from going into depression. In addition, the bolster provides thermal and acoustic insulation.
The multilayer fabric expansion joints, have necessarily to be able to dissipate the heat that passes through them. Any element that prevents or limits this step must be avoided.
Therefore insulation that cover the external part of expansion joints are not permitted, excluding the ones working at low temperatures, which have to be evaluated case-by-case.
Metal expansion joint
Metal expansion joints are also used in piping systems to absorb movements caused by temperature and pressure.
They are used to compensate for movements in the axial or lateral direction and to compensate for angular deviations in the geometric axes of the flanges. Torques are transmitted rigidly and without backlash.
Suitable for liquid and gaseous fluids. High pressure and temperature.
They are largely used in : refineries, chemical plants, power generation, heating and air conditioning systems, research, automotive and cryogenics.
Depending on the direction of movements and operating conditions, there are different types of metal expansion joints: axial, lateral angular and combined, which must be accurately examined and assembled .
Therefore, it is absolutely necessary a prior assessment of the installation in order to find the most suitable solution; solution that only a skilled partner will be able to suggest you.
Underestimating the problem, that can arise from a wrong assessment of the compensator to be used, whether textile or metal joint, is dangerous, not only in terms of low performance.
New Componit is an experienced and qualified company: we at New Componit have been working for 30 years in the production of fabric joints, protections and custom-made items for industrial plants.
This is why we have developed the Efficiency Box® program, which offers you a custom-made analysis of your plant together with design and constant support by our highly qualified technicians:
- Efficiency tests
- Dedicated skilled team
- After-sales assistance and periodic supervision
- Certifications and guarantees
Want to improve comfort and performance in your plant with a tailored solution?
Sales Manager
Responsible for commercial management and the development of business opportunities in the fields of industrial insulation and expansion joints.
