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HKS - Axial Expansion Joints for Longitudinal Movement Compensation
Axial expansion joints are designed to absorb axial movements in piping systems, specifically accommodating length changes along the pipe's axis. They are crucial components in industrial applications where thermal expansion, contraction, or mechanical shifts occur due to pressure and temperature changes. Made from stainless steel or other materials suitable for specific environments, these joints facilitate the safe and efficient transfer of heat and fluids without imposing stress on the piping system. By minimizing mechanical strain, these joints enhance the longevity and reliability of pipelines, reducing maintenance costs and potential system failures. However, their one-directional flexibility necessitates careful consideration in assembly to ensure that they align with the anticipated mechanical demands of the entire system.
Axial expansion joints are expansion joints that absorb mainly longitudinal movements axially along a straight section of pipe.
- Simple means of compensation
- Smaller space requirements
- No alteration of flow movement
- Movement possible in any direction
- No redirection of pipe work required
- Low unit costs
- High axial forces at higher pressures
- Strong fixed points and good axial pipe guides required
- Small and medium movement absorption
- For large expansion movements several axial expansion joints are required
- On long stretches many fixed points and pipe guides are required
- Connection parts : Axial expansion joints can be manufactured with weld ends, fixed flanges or swivel flanges or combinations thereof, depending on customer requirements
- Guide tubes : To avoid abrasion and turbulence (e.g. at high flow rates in pipe work systems), axial expansion joints can be equipped with inner guide tubes
- Outer protection tube : To protect the metal bellows against mechanical effects from the outside, axial expansion joints can be equipped with outer protection tubes
- One or two bellows : Axial expansion joints can be manufactures with one bellows or two bellows that are connected by a central tube (see also » Universal expansion joints)