Expansion joints, also known as expansion couplings or vibration isolators, are used to address movement, vibration, oscillation, corrosion, and other issues caused by temperature changes and various fluids in duct and piping systems. These joints are designed to absorb thermal expansion and contraction, resist high temperatures and pressures, and withstand corrosive fluids.
Types of Expansion Joints:
- Metal Expansion Joints: Suitable for high temperatures, high pressures, and corrosive fluids.
- Rubber Expansion Joints: Provide greater flexibility and are ideal for absorbing vibration and noise.
- Fabric Expansion Joints: Suitable for high temperatures, corrosive fluids, and offer good flexibility.
Expansion Joint Selection Guide:
The table below serves as a guide for selecting the right type of expansion joint based on the system’s specific features and working conditions. This table will help you choose the most suitable expansion joint type (fabric, metal, or rubber) for your system:
| Feature / Working Condition | Fabric Expansion Joint | Metal Expansion Joint | Rubber Expansion Joint |
|---|---|---|---|
| Operating Temperature Range | Up to very high temperatures (500–1000°C) | Up to very high temperatures (over 1000°C) | Moderate temperatures (around 120–200°C) |
| Corrosion Resistance | Excellent in chemical and corrosive environments | Good, but may require special materials in chemical environments | Resistant to many chemicals and gases |
| Flexibility | Highly flexible, absorbs thermal stress and vibrations | Less flexible than fabric and rubber | Highly flexible, ideal for absorbing vibrations and movements |
| Pressure Tolerance | Low to medium pressures | Suitable for very high pressures | Low to medium pressures |
| Vibration and Noise Absorption | Excellent for absorbing vibrations and reducing noise | Poor in absorbing vibrations and noise | Excellent for vibration absorption and noise reduction |
| Ease of Installation and Maintenance | Easy to install and maintain | Requires regular maintenance | Easy installation and low maintenance costs |
| Common Applications | Power plants, refineries, petrochemical industries, industrial HVAC systems | Oil and gas industries, power plants, steam and hot water lines | Water systems, HVAC, chemical industries, wastewater systems |
| Lifespan | Long lifespan in high temperatures and corrosive environments | Long lifespan in high pressure and temperature conditions | Moderate lifespan in lower pressure and temperature conditions |
| Cost | Generally lower cost than metal | Higher cost than fabric and rubber | Moderate cost, cost-effective in many applications |
| Limitations | Not suitable for high pressures | Heavy, bulky, less flexible | Not suitable for very high temperatures |
Selection Guidelines:
- Fabric Expansion Joint: Suitable for applications with very high temperatures, corrosive chemical environments, and high flexibility needs. Commonly used in power plants, refineries, and petrochemical industries.
- Metal Expansion Joint: Ideal for conditions with very high pressures and temperatures. Often used in heavy industries such as oil and gas, and steam pipelines.
- Rubber Expansion Joint: Suitable for applications with moderate temperatures and pressures, where vibration absorption and noise reduction are needed. Commonly used in water systems, HVAC, and chemical industries.
Expansion Joint Design and Manufacturing:
The design of expansion joints and the selection of materials are based on technical specifications, such as the type of fluid passing through, internal duct temperature and pressure, fluid corrosiveness, and more. These specifications are managed by the technical and engineering department of Klevers Ariana according to customer requests.
Klevers Ariana Company:
Klevers Ariana began its operations in 2001, focusing on fabric expansion joints. Initially, the company collaborated with Seiris, a French company, to transfer related knowledge and technology. Currently, Klevers Ariana is one of the main producers of rubber, metal, and fabric expansion joints in Iran.
Advantages of Using Klevers Ariana Expansion Joints:
- Increased lifespan of piping systems
- Reduced maintenance and repair costs
- Improved system safety and efficiency
- Variety in material and model
- High quality
- Competitive pricing
For more information and free consultation, contact Klevers Ariana experts.
