The characteristics and uses of expansion joints

    Expansion joints, also known as compensators or expansion joints, are flexible components that can effectively compensate for axial deformation. Its characteristics and uses are mainly reflected in the following aspects:

    1、 Characteristics

    Compensation function: Expansion joints have excellent compensation function, especially non-metallic expansion joints, whose compensation function is much greater than metal expansion joints in the same shape and size. For lateral displacement compensation, non-metallic expansion joints are almost an order of magnitude larger than metal expansion joints.

    Compensation resistance: Expansion joints will generate resistance after contraction or stretching, which is particularly significant in metal expansion joints and may have adverse effects on the system, even damaging surrounding equipment.

    High temperature resistance and corrosion resistance: The materials of non-metallic expansion joints have good high temperature resistance and acid and alkali resistance. In contrast, metal expansion joints may experience cracking or corrosion in specific environments (such as high or low temperatures).

    2、 Purpose

    Expansion joints are widely used in various industries, and they may be needed wherever there are pipelines. Its main uses include:

    Pipeline system: Expansion joints are used to compensate for the deformation and displacement caused by thermal expansion and contraction at the  pipeline connection, ensuring a more secure connection of the pipeline system and improving its safety and reliability.

    Tank system: In fields such as petroleum and chemical engineering, the structure of tank systems is complex, and substances will expand or contract over time. Expansion joints are used for thermal stress compensation to prevent damage or deformation of the storage tank system due to temperature changes.

    Heating system: Due to the high and rapid temperature changes in the heating system, expansion joints are used to prevent the impact of thermal stress caused by temperature changes on the system.

    In addition, expansion joints are often used in noise reduction, vibration reduction, heating and other scenarios. Overall, expansion joints are an important compensation component widely used in industries such as petroleum, chemical, and aviation. They can effectively avoid damage to equipment caused by thermal stress caused by temperature changes and maintain stable operation of the equipment.