Types of expansion joints used in power plants

    There are various types of expansion joints used in power plants, mainly classified based on their function, shape, and purpose. The following are several commonly used types of expansion joints in power plants:

    Bend type expansion joint: also known as expansion joint, it bends the pipe into a U-shaped or other shape. This type of expansion joint utilizes the elastic deformation ability of the body for compensation, and has the advantages of good strength and long service life. However, the disadvantages are that it occupies a large space, consumes a lot of steel, and has high friction resistance. Elbow expansion joints are commonly used on various steam pipelines and long pipelines.

    Bellows expansion joint: This type of expansion joint is made of metal bellows and can expand and contract along the pipeline axis direction, allowing for a small amount of bending. Bellows expansion joints are usually used on pipelines with low temperature and pressure, and short lengths. With the improvement of corrugated pipe production technology, the application range of this type of expansion joint is expanding, and it can currently be used in pipe systems with a maximum pressure of 6.0 megapascals.

    Sleeve type expansion joint: composed of inner and outer sleeves that can perform axial relative motion, and sealed with packing between the inner and outer sleeves. This type of expansion joint needs to keep the pipes at both ends moving along the same axis during use.

    In addition, power plants may also use other types of expansion joints, such as straight pipe pressure balanced expansion joints, unconstrained expansion joints, composite tie rod lateral expansion joints, etc. These expansion joints have their own characteristics and applicable scenarios, which can meet the needs of different pipeline systems in power plants.

    Please note that when selecting expansion joints, power plants need to choose them based on specific pipeline systems, working environments, and usage requirements to ensure that the expansion joints can achieve optimal performance and effectiveness. Meanwhile, the installation, maintenance, and inspection of expansion joints also need to be carried out in accordance with relevant regulations and standards to ensure their safe and reliable operation.