Significant movement can occur in pipes as a result of expansion and contraction due to temperature fluctuations or vibrations caused by machines connected to them such as pumps and compressors. At sea, the heaving of the ship can cause pipes to move considerably. This can lead to irreversible damage to pipework and the objects to which those pipes are attached, resulting in downtime and considerable expense. Damage can be prevented by absorbing these movements. Imbema Cleton offers solutions using reliable expansion joints.
Absorbing movements
Expansion joints are installed between pipes. They can absorb various types of movement:
- Axial (along the length of the pipe)
- Angular (bending)
- Lateral (displacement)
Highly versatile
The wide variety of connections available such as flanges, weldon fittings, etc. gives the expansion joints great flexibility in terms of installation. Moreover, there is a suitable expansion joint for virtually every medium: from oil products to chemicals and from liquid gases to steam. In addition, extremely low to very high temperatures are not a problem either.
Wide variety of designs
There is a wide variety of designs to choose from in rubber or stainless steel, depending on the application and the movements to be absorbed. Depending on the medium, it is possible to have a smooth finish on the inside. Another option is to install an additional protective tube on the outside to protect the expansion joint against external (mechanical) influences.
Advantages
Benefits of using expansion joints:
- Reliable solution for absorbing undesirable movements.
- No longer necessary to include additional compensation loops
in pipework as a result of which the length of pipe required is
considerably reduced. - Can reduce the effects of water hammer.
- Noise reduction due to the damping of vibrations that are
transmitted through the pipework. - Quick and easy to install.
Want to find out how expansion joints can significantly reduce the risk of damage to your pipework? Contact the specialists at Imbema Cleton by calling +31 10 4345922 or via their website www.imbemacleton.nl.
