NEWS

Design and manufacturing of metal expansion joints for industrial piping systems

At Bikar Expansion Joints, we have completed the design and manufacturing of metal expansion joints for an industrial piping system, providing a reliable solution for absorbing significant axial movements and controlling stresses in the line.

For this application, BM-UN-EX-TI universal metal expansion joints were engineered to operate under low-pressure conditions and moderate temperatures, ensuring safe and long-term performance of the installation.

In general, metal expansion joints are used in Energy, Oil & Gas and Industrial applications, and are commonly installed in refineries, petrochemical plants, shipyards and similar facilities. Their main function is to absorb movements, vibrations and stresses in piping systems handling fluids at temperatures up to 1200 °C (2200 °F) and standard pressures up to 100 bar (1500 psi), protecting critical equipment and maintaining system integrity.

Design and operating conditions:

Expansion joint type: BM-UN-EX-TI
Nominal size: 14″
Overall length: 1310 mm
Design pressure: 3.5 bar (g)
Maximum test pressure: 5.25 bar (g)
Design temperature: 175 °C
Axial movements:
+20 mm / −180 mm

Materials used:

Bellows: AISI 321
Internal liner: AISI 304 / 304L
External cover: carbon steel, hot-dip galvanized
The expansion joints are supplied with control tie rods.

BM-UN-EX-TI universal metal expansion joint

Universal expansion joints consist of two single bellows separated by an intermediate pipe. This configuration provides a high capacity to absorb axial and lateral movements, making them particularly suitable for piping systems where flexibility and controlled loads are required.

The absorption capacity depends on the bellows design and the length of the intermediate section. A longer intermediate pipe increases movement capability, while any thermal expansion of this section is also compensated by the bellows.

Main characteristics:

Suitable for low-pressure applications
High axial and lateral movement absorption
Pressure thrust balanced by control rods

Fixed anchors can be reduced or avoided when piping is properly guided
This project highlights BIKAR’s engineering capability in the design and manufacturing of metal expansion joints, delivering customized solutions that combine mechanical strength, flexibility and operational reliability.

For further information about our metal expansion joints or technical support, please contact us at info@bikarexpansionjoints.com.

Custom packaging for the safe transport of BIKAR expansion joints

At BIKAR Expansion Joints, we don’t only manufacture expansion joints; we also ensure that every product reaches its final destination in perfect condition. To achieve this, we provide custom-made packaging specifically designed to protect each joint during transport, whether by sea, air or land.

At BIKAR we offer a comprehensive service to our clients, from the design phase, manufacturing, and no less important the packaging and shipping of the merchandise.

While we are not a packaging manufacturer, we design tailor-made wooden crates for each order, adapting them to the dimensions, quantity and configuration of the supplied joints. We can prepare a single crate for a large-diameter joint (such as DN 3200), or multi-unit configurations like 60 × DN 100 or 8 × DN 500, among many other combinations.

Key features of our packaging:

Custom wooden crates built according to international standards (ISPM-15 / HT), ensuring suitability for global shipments.

Internal supports and fastening systems designed to prevent movement and protect the bellows and flanges during transport.

Reinforced lower supports, allowing easy handling with forklift or crane.

Labelled hardware and accessories, with tie-rod fasteners clearly identified by joint reference.

Optional packing organized by plant lines or areas, helping the customer streamline installation and material handling on site.

Our commitment is to ensure that every expansion joint manufactured by BIKAR arrives protected, intact and ready for installation, regardless of destination or transport method.

For more information or advice, contact our team at info@bikarexpansionjoints.com