The proper installation of an expansion joint is essential to ensure its performance. Without proper installation, it can become damaged or fail completely. Read below to learn about several best practices you must adhere to when installing expansion joints so that they continue to perform as needed.
Consider the Application
Before installing your expansion joint, consider the application in which you plan to use it and determine if it suits its purpose. The expansion joint should be able to handle the pressures and temperatures it will encounter and the materials that will pass through it. Otherwise, you will likely experience future issues.
Determine the Direction
Another important best practice when installing expansion joints is to determine the flow direction before starting the installation process. Look at the joint’s liner to confirm that the material will flow in the correct direction. That will allow you to avoid failure in your pipeline and ensure everything flows properly.
Confirm the Size of Your Components
It is wise to ensure that all components are the proper size for the application. Expansion joints come in a variety of sizes, and yours must be the correct size for your pipeline, or it will not work correctly. Additionally, make sure to consider any additional weight that piping and machinery may add to the expansion joint.
Align Them Correctly
You should make sure to align your expansion joint properly when you install it. Otherwise, the extra stress placed on the joint can put workers in danger and cut down on the performance life of your component. Try using pipe guides to keep everything aligned and enhance the safety levels in your workplace.
Tighten Your Components Properly
Make sure you have properly tightened all bolts, nuts, and other components before operating the equipment or structure with the expansion joint installed. Loose connections can result in vibration that can damage the expansion joint or even cause a failure. Perform the proper expansion joint maintenance in the future as well to ensure it continues providing you with the level of performance you need.
Triad Bellows manufactures custom metal expansion joints that can provide you with high performance. We have served customers worldwide with our products, which we design for maximum fatigue cycle life. Visit our homepage to find out more!
