In systems that are inclusive of the piping mechanism, there are some components that are difficult to choose as perfect matches. Until they fail in terms of operation, they hardly get enough attention. Expansion joints are among them.
Rather than rotating, pumping, or generating data, they carry on with the vital part, which is none other than movement management in the pipeline. Now, there are times when engineers fail to choose the best between single and universal expansion joints.
Choosing the wrong option may cost a fortune. Below are some points that may help in making the right choice.
Is an Expansion Joint Just a Flexible Piping Piece?
Before diving deeper, it will be good to note that expansion joints are not just flexible pieces of pipes. They are special components that contain pressure and are designed especially for absorbing movement.
Systems where pipes suffer from cracks, deformation, or leakage due to the expansion and contraction may benefit from expansion joints. The joints help in avoiding unnecessary damage, downtime, and highly expensive repairs.
After getting an idea about expansion joints, it is better know the difference between single and universal joints.
How does Universal Expansion Joint Differ from Single Joint?
At the time of making the right choice between single and universal expansion joints, many engineering professionals remain in a fix. Though both are manufactured with stainless steel and designed to handle pressure, they are not interchangeable.
Some vital differences between a single and universal expansion joint are:
- Design – Single bellows are designed for absorbing axial movements that include contraction and expansion. Whereas universal expansion joints in India can easily handle axial, lateral, and angular movements.
- Total number of bellows – As clear, single expansion joints comprise a single bellows. But universal expansion joints are inclusive of two different bellows that are connected by a centre pipe.
- Ideal – A single expansion joint is ideal for runs that are straight and short. But a universal joint is better for systems that are inclusive of complex routing, misalignment, and multiple movements.
- Adaptability – Though affordable, simple, and compact, single bellows are hardly versatile. But, double bellows are a bit expensive and larger, which they are much adaptable.
It is the movement in your system that will help in the easy selection of the most suitable joint. Strictly axial movements with solid anchors in place can benefit from a single expansion joint. But, for multiple planes of motion or systems where there is no such anchor setup, universal joint bellows may be beneficial.
At Flexpert Bellows, plant heads, engineers, and other professionals may come across the best assistance in the selection of the right type of metallic expansion joints for the system. With a confident decision, the selection of the right joint will no longer be difficult.