Description

This expansion joint is designed to absorb axial and lateral movements while retaining the force of the pressure. The basic principle behind this type of expansion joint is the use of a compensation bellows along with two line bellows, connected by control rods, to balance the force of the pressure. The force of the pressure acting upon the line bellows is balanced against the force on the compensation bellows through the control rods. The purpose of this type of expansion joint is to support and balance the force of the pressure, in a manner such that fixed anchoring is not necessary in the pipe system, and so that the forces and movements exerted on the flanges with the delicate equipment connected are reduced to tolerable levels.

Characteristics and properties

• Depending upon the design, absorb axial movements, lateral movements, or a combination of both.
• Retains the pressure in both directions.
• Does not require fixed anchoring, since the forces of the pressure are balanced.
• Requires a minimum number of guides.
• Transfers minimum loads to the equipment connected.

These are used when it is necessary to absorb axial and lateral movements, but where there is no space to install anchoring, or where such installation would be very costly.