Fabric expansion joints and their characteristics

Flexible fabric wave element (formed as a wave during manufacture) has a significant role to play in fabric expansion joints reducing axial extensions and shear displacements in pipelines and flue gas ducts. The fabric itself is flexible, but not elastic and it cannot be stretched. Due to the use of waves in the design, it is possible to compensate for movements and vibrations in various technological systems.

Extra material is necessary to compensate for significant (large) movements. In this case, an expansion joint shape is made with several waves. If necessary, internal and external reinforcing rings are added to the construction design to normalize the movement. This design allows compensating for significant movements (up to 70% of initial extension) as well as to keep a cross section of the duct unchanged. Reinforcing rings at low or high pressure fasten the expansion joint body and compensate movements. Solid abrasive particles, which can damage the fabric part of the compensator, are very frequent in a processing medium. In this case an internal liner or baffle is used. Flange connections sealing is ensured by uniform tightening the bolts on pipeline flanges.

Pipe displacements are transmitted to supports or pipe saddles. If it is necessary to exclude stress or vibration transfer from the pipeline to the equipment, it is recommended to install a fabric compensator. The compensator for processing equipment has the function of an additional damper.

Due to the rubber structure resulted in the process of its formation (it must be able to withstand against high temperatures and chemicals), fabric materials keep sealing properties and pressure resistance.

At operating conditions, fabric expansion joints ensure trouble-free operation.