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42″ Single Expansion Joints for an Exhaust Duct Application at a Gas Turbine Facility in Indiana

Usbellows single expansion joint 132974

 

 Type:  Single Expansion Joints
 Size:  42″ ID | 24″Face-To-Face
 Material:  Inconel 600 | 304 Stainless Steel | Carbon Steel
 Design:  350°F Operating Temp. @ 100 psig | 0.75″ Lateral
 Testing:  Hydro-tested

These single expansion joints were custom-designed by U.S. Bellows for an exhaust duct application at a gas turbine facility in Indiana. The units have a 42″ ID and are 27″ face-to-face. The bellows were fabricated from Inconel 600, the liners from 304 stainless steel, and the cover, limit rods, and hardware from carbon steel with red oxide primer on all exposed carbon steel. It is important to note that our manufacturing and production abilities around mixed metallurgy are unique in that we can isolate and manage different metals in our production but also have the experience depending on the client’s need.

These units are designed for an operating temperature of 350°F at 100 psig, 0.625″ of axial compression, and 0.75″ of lateral deflection. The expansion joints were hydro-tested prior to shipment.

Over 60-65% of the expansion joints we provided replace existing units. US Bellows is not necessarily the OEM in all cases however we have the experience to manufacture, repair, or audit our designs and others as we are members of EJMA with deep expertise in expansion joint design and manufacturing for over 50 years with an in-house Field service team. Our expansion joint engineers use the EJMA (Expansion Joint Manufacturers Association) latest edition to maintain a calculations-based spreadsheet and a stand-alone engineering design software program for the ASME ( American Society of Mechanical Engineers) code section VIII-based calculations to design expansion joints.

Applications for expansion joints include:

 

Fossil Fuel Power Plant Chemicals and Petrochemical Stationary Engine Exhaust Pulp, Paper, Wood pellets
Power (Nuclear/Fossil fuel/Renewables) Heat Exchangers Municipal Water Districts Space Aviation/Aerospace Engine Exhaust
District Energy FCC Units Wastewater Treatment Truck Exhausts
Gas Turbines Navy Biofuels/Solid Waste Incineration Steel Mills/Blast Furnaces/Mining
Steam Distribution Kilns Solar/Environmental applications Marine Piping and Exhaust
Geothermal Power Plants Furnace Sealing Bags HVAC Building and heating systems Liquefied Natural Gas Service (LNG)
Refineries Education/Labs Food processing Cement manufacturing

PT&P REF. ORIGINAL POST 11252019

11 Foot Long Universal Gimbal Expansion Joints Designed for an Oil Refinery in Canada

11 Foot Long Universal Gimbal Expansion Joints Designed for an Oil Refinery in Canada

Type:  Universal Gimbal Expansion Joint
Size:  102″ – 133″ L | 41.5″ W | 41.75″ H | 32″ diameter
Material:  Carbon Steel | 304 Stainless Steel
Design:   100°F @ 285 psig | 102 lb/in/degree Rotational
Spring Rate | 15.4″ Lateral Deflection
Testing:   Hydrotested @ 428 PSIG

U.S. Bellows custom designed these universal gimbal expansion joints for an oil refinery in Canada. The bellows and liners are fabricated from 304 stainless steel, and the remainder of the components are fabricated from carbon steel. The units range from 102" to 133" long respectively, and sizes supplied are 12"NPS with a gimbal box 27" wide, 27.5" tall and 24"NPS with a gimbal box 41.25" wide, 41.75" tall. They are designed for an operating temperature of 100°F at 285 psig, with a 102 lb/in/degree rotational spring rate and 15.4" of lateral deflection. The expansion joints were 100% dye-penetrant tested and hydro-tested at 428 psig prior to shipment.

Gimbal expansion joints are used in a variety of industrial applications where piping systems experience multidirectional movements due to thermal expansion, vibrations, or other external forces. Here are some common areas where gimbal expansion joints are utilized:

Power Plants: In both fossil fuel and nuclear power plants, gimbal expansion joints are used in the steam, water, and exhaust systems to accommodate thermal expansion and prevent stress on the piping.

Refineries and Petrochemical Plants: These joints are essential in refineries and petrochemical facilities to manage the thermal expansion in pipelines carrying various fluids, including high-temperature hydrocarbons, to ensure safe and efficient operations.

Oil and Gas Industry: Gimbal expansion joints are employed in pipelines that transport oil, gas, and other fluids, especially in offshore drilling platforms, to handle the dynamic movements caused by waves, currents, and thermal effects.

Shipbuilding: In marine applications, gimbal expansion joints are used in the exhaust systems of ships to absorb vibrations and accommodate thermal expansion caused by the operation of engines and other machinery.

Aerospace and Defense: These joints are also found in aerospace applications, such as in rocket propulsion systems, to absorb the significant thermal expansion and mechanical stresses during launch and flight.

PT&P REF. ORIGINAL POST 10012018

Glossary

ADJUSTABLE HOT PISTON SETTING PIPE HANGER FRICTION LOAD SNUBBER
ADJUSTMENT DEVICE HYDRAULIC SNUBBER PIPE HANGER HOT LOAD SPIDER GUIDE
ALL THREAD ROD HYDROSTATIC LOCK PIPE HANGER SEISMIC LOAD SPLIT RING
ALLOY PIPE CLAMP HYDROSTATIC TEST PIPE HANGER THERMAL LOAD SPRING CUSHION HANGER
ANCHOR HYDROSTATIC TEST LOAD PIPE HANGER WATER HAMMER LOAD SPRING CUSHION ROLL
ANCHOR BOLTS INSERT PIPE ROLL SPRING HANGER
BAND HANGER INSERT NUT PIPE SADDLE SUPPORTS SPRING SNUBBER
BEAM CLAMP INSTRUMENT SUPPORTS PIPE SHOE SPRING SWAY BRACE
BIG TON SPRING JACKET PIPE SLIDE STANCHION
BRACKET KNEEBRACE PIPE SUPPORT STEEL CLEVIS
BULK MATERIAL LIGHT BRACKET PLATE LUG STOP
“C” CLAMP LIMIT STOP PROTECTION SADDLE STRUCTURAL ATTACHMENT
CENTER BEAM CLAMP LINER PROTECTION SHIELD STRUT
CHANNEL CLAMP LOAD ADJUSTMENT SCALE RESTRAINT SWAY BRACE
CLEVIS HANGER LOAD BOLT OR PIN RESTRAINING CONTROL DEVICE SWIVEL TURNBUCKLE
COLD PISTON SETTING LOAD COUPLING RIGID HANGER THREE BOLT PIPE CLAMP
COLD SETTING LOAD INDICATOR RIGID SUPPORT TOP BEAM CLAMP
COLD SPRING LOAD SCALE RISER TRAPEZE HANGER
COMPLETELY ENGINEERED HANGER ASSEMBLY LOAD VARIATION RISER CLAMP TRAVEL INDICATOR
COMPONENT MARK NUMBER ROD COUPLING TRAVEL SCALE
CONCRETE FASTENER MECHANICAL SNUBBER ROD HANGER TRAVEL STOP
CONCRETE INSERT BOX MEDIUM BRACKET ROLL STAND TURNBUCKLE
CONSTANT SUPPORT HANGER MULTIPLE SUPPORT ROLL AND PLATE U-BOLT
DEVIATION NON-METALLIC WEAR PAD ROLL HANGER VAPOR BARRIER
ELBOW LUG OFFSET ROLL PLATE VARIABILITY
EMBED PLATES PIPE ATTACHMENT SADDLE VARIABLE SPRING HANGER
EXTENSION RISER CLAMP PIPE CLAMP SEMI-ENGINEERED HANGER ASSEMBLY WELDED BEAM ATTACHMENT
EXTENSION SPLIT CLAMP PIPE CLIP SHEAR LUG WELDED PIPE ATTACHMENT
EYE ROD PIPE COVERING PROTECTION SADDLE SHIELD WELDING LUG
EYE SOCKET PIPE HANGER SIDE BEAM BRACKET WELDLESS EYE NUT
FORGED CLEVIS PIPE HANGER ASSEMBLY SIDE BEAM CLAMP WIDE FLANGE BEAM CLAMP
GUIDE PIPE HANGER COLD LOAD SINGLE PIPE ROLL YOKE U-BOLT
HANGER ROD PIPE HANGER COLD SPRING LOAD SLEEPER
HEAVY BRACKET PIPE HANGER DEADWEIGHT LOAD SLIDE PLATE
HORIZONTAL TRAVELER PIPE HANGER DESIGN LOAD SLIDING SUPPORT
Adjustable: Having linear adjustment capability (usually with threads).Adjustment Device: Components which provide for linear adjustability (e.g.) Turn-buckle, Hanger Rod, Nut, and Load Coupling.

All Thread Rod: A rod threaded its full length. (See Product)

Alloy Pipe Clamp: A Pipe Clamp made from low chrome-moly (less than 5% chrome) materials for the purpose of resisting the effects of piping temperatures in the 750 degrees F. to 1,100 degrees F range. (See Product)

Anchor: A rigid device used to prevent essentially all pipe rotation and displacement at the point of application.

Anchor Bolts: Threaded items used to attach embed plates into concrete on structural supports.

Band Hanger: A Pipe Attachment providing for vertical adjustment, consisting principally of a formed steel strap.

Beam Clamp: A type of forged or fabricated clamp that is used to attach rod hangers to beams by clamping onto the load flange. (See Product)

Big Ton Spring: A multi-spring coil device that lends itself to supporting very high loads and providing a great amount of stability. (See Product)

Bracket: Cantilevered member, with or without a kneebrace, designed to withstand a gravity load and/or horizontal forces.

Bulk Material: Material which has been packaged in a manner in which identical items are grouped together and are identified only by quantity, size and/or manufacturer’s figure number.

“C” Clamp: “C” shaped Beam Clamp which attaches to a flange of a structural member and provides for attaching a threaded rod. (See Product)

Center Beam Clamp: A jaw type Beam Clamp for use with I-beams and wide flange beams which provides a centered beam connection for the remainder of the Pipe Hanger Assembly.

Channel Clamp: A Side Beam Clamp with channel adapter and hook rod, which attaches to the bottom flange of a channel beam and provides a connection for the remainder of the Pipe Hanger Assembly.

Clevis Hanger: A Pipe Attachment providing vertical adjustment, consisting of a clevis type top bolted to a formed steel bottom strap. (See Product)

Cold Piston Setting: An indicated piston position on a Hydraulic Snubber, denoting proper installation setting of the unit with the piping in the cold position.

Cold Setting: The position at which a Spring Hanger or Mechanical Snubber indicator is set denoting the proper installation setting of the unit with the piping in the cold position.

Cold Spring: The act of pre-stressing a piping system during installation in order that the equipment reactions will be lower in the operating condition. This pre-stress is accomplished by the proper closure of the Cut Short gaps.

Completely Engineered Hanger Assembly: Pipe Hanger Assembly which has been designed, detailed and provided with a complete bill of material.

Component: Any of a range of devices which are used to make up a Pipe Hanger Assembly.

Concrete Fastener: A device installed in concrete by means of a drilled hole, to which a pipe hanger can be attached.

Concrete Insert Box: A cast-in-place insert which provides for a rod attachment capable of nominal lateral adjustment.

Constant Support Hanger: A mechanical and spring coil device which produces a relatively constant supporting effect, while permitting vertical pipe movement. (See Product)

Deviation: A term used to describe the accuracy of a Constant Support Hanger which is a measure of the maximum difference between the actual and specified supporting effect, through its travel cycle, expressed as a percentage.

Elbow Lug: A Pipe Attachment welded to an elbow for the purpose of attaching the remainder of the Pipe Hanger Assembly.

Embed Plates: Steel plates sunk into concrete piers used to provide structural support for pipe racks, pipe supports, etc.

Extension Riser Clamp: A Pipe Clamp for the support of vertical piping, whose ears have been extended to permit the transfer of the piping load to a bearing surface upon which the ears of the clamp will rest.

Extension Split Clamp: A Pipe Clamp primarily used on non-insulated piping and provided with a female threaded attachment.

Eye Rod: A Hanger Rod having an end formed in a circular or pear shape, permitting attachment to other components by means of a bolt or pin. The eye may be forged, welded or non-welded. (See Product)

Eye Socket: A device which provides for the attachment of a threaded Hanger Rod to the bolt of another component.

Forged Clevis: A device which provides for the attachment of a threaded Hanger rod to a bolted or pinned connection.

Guide: A device used to permit pipe movement in a predetermined direction while restraining movement in other directions.

Hanger Rod: Round steel bar normally threaded used to connect other components, to make up a Pipe Hanger Assembly. (See Product)

Heavy Bracket: A Bracket used for the support of heavy loads.

Horizontal Traveler: Any device which will permit the upper end of a Pipe Hanger to move in a manner which will accommodate horizontal piping. (See Product)

Hot Piston Setting: The position at which the piston on a Hydraulic Snubber should be with the piping in the hot or operating position.

Hydraulic Snubber: A hydraulic cylinder or rotating vane device used for the control of shock or sway in piping systems, while allowing for normal thermal expansion. (See Product)

Hydrostatic Lock: See Travel Stop.

Hydrostatic Test: A pre-operational test, whereby the piping system is subjected to a pressurized fluid test in excess of the operational pressure to assure the integrity of the system. (See Test)

Hydrostatic Test Load:  A temporary loading condition consisting of a total of the gravitational piping, insulation and test fluid weights for piping systems subject to hydrostatic tests. (See Test)

Insert: A device, embedded in concrete, to which a Pipe Hanger Assembly can be attached.

Insert Nut: A female threaded device which locks into position in an Insert and receives a threaded Hanger Rod.

Instrument Supports: Devices fabricated from small bore piping used to support process instrumentation such as temperature sensors, flow meters, etc. (See Product)

Jacket: A non-load bearing metal covering placed around the insulation to protect it against damage.

Kneebrace: A diagonal structural member used to transfer load or provide stability.

Light Bracket: A Bracket used for the support of light loads.

Limit Stop: An internal device built into a Variable Spring or Constant Support Hanger to prevent the overstressing of the spring coil, over-travel, or release of the load.

Liner: Material placed between pipe and pipe attachment to protect piping from damage or other undesirable effects.

Load Adjustment Scale: A scale used on a Constant Support Hanger to indicate the load adjustment.

Load Bolt or Pin: A bolt or pin which is used to support the weight being carried by the Pipe Hanger Assembly; e.g. the top pin or bolt in a Three Bolt Pipe Clamp.

Load Coupling: An Adjustment Device used to connect the Hanger Rod to a Variable Spring Hanger or Constant Support Hanger.

Load Indicator: The load plate or other means used to indicate the reading on the Load Scale of a Variable Spring Hanger.

Load Scale: A scale attached to a Variable Spring Hanger to provide a means of indicating the supported load.

Load Variation: A term associated with Variable Spring Hangers used to describe the difference in supporting effect between the hot and cold elevations of the support point.

Mark Number: A unique number used to identify pipe hangers.

Mechanical Snubber: A mechanical device used for the control of shock or sway in piping systems, while allowing for normal thermal expansion. (See Product)

Medium Bracket: A Bracket used for the support of moderate loads.

Multiple Support: A Pipe Hanger Assembly consisting of a common cross member used to support parallel run or banks of piping.

Non-Metallic Wear Pad: A sacrificial plate used to prevent damage to the pipe by absorbing the frictional load caused by the movement of pipe on structural steel. (See Product)

Offset: A relative displacement between the Structural Attachment and Pipe Attachment, which may be incorporated into the design of the Pipe Hanger Assembly to accommodate the piping movement.

Pipe Attachment: Any device used to connect the pipe to the remainder of the Pipe Hanger Assembly.

Pipe Clamp: A bolted Pipe Attachment which clamps around the pipe to connect the pipe to the remainder of a Pipe Hanger Assembly. (See Product)

Pipe Clip: A Pipe Attachment used to hold the pipe directly to a structure, also referred to as a strap or pipe strap.

Pipe Covering Protection Saddle: A device used to prevent damage to the insulation at the support point. (See Product)

Pipe Hanger: A device which is suspended from a structure and is used to carry the piping load in tension.

Pipe Hanger Assembly: A general term used to describe a series of assembled components which make up a Pipe Hanger, Pipe Support, Restraint, Anchor, Guide, etc.

Pipe Hanger Cold Load: Loading at ambient temperature, resulting from the use of Variable Spring Hangers in the support of a piping system. The cold load equals the operating load plus or minus the Load Variation.

Pipe Hanger Cold Spring Load: An additional force that may occur at a support point as a result of the Cold Spring of a piping system.

Pipe Hanger Deadweight Load: Loading condition which considers only the dead weight of the piping, insulation, and contents.

Pipe Hanger Design Load: The combination of operating and other loads as defined by job specification.

Pipe Hanger Friction Load: Loading as a result of frictional forces due to sliding surfaces.

Pipe Hanger Hot Load: Operating load on a Variable Spring Hanger (normally represents deadweight under operating conditions.)

Pipe Hanger Seismic Load: Temporary loading associated with the occurrence of an earthquake.

Pipe Hanger Thermal Load: Loading introduced by the restraint of a piping system against thermal expansion or contraction.

Pipe Hanger Water Hammer Load: Temporary loading resulting from a change in the flow rate of the piping contents.

Pipe Roll: A roller device used to support horizontal piping and provide for axial movement.

Pipe Saddle Supports: A Stanchion utilizing a curved section for cradling the pipe. (See Product)

Pipe Shoe: Normally a Tee section attached to the pipe to transmit the load or forces to the adjacent structure. (See Product)

Pipe Slide: A device consisting of a Pipe Attachment and a Slide Plate, to accommodate horizontal pipe movement.

Pipe Support: A device by which piping is carried from beneath and is used to carry the piping weight in compression.

Plate Lug: An attachment welded to a structural member or piping, to provide for a pinned or bolted connection to the remainder of a Pipe Hanger Assembly.

Protection Saddle: See Pipe Covering Protection Saddle. (See Product)

Protection Shield: A metal shield used to maintain the integrity of the Vapor Barrier and/or protect the insulation at support locations. (See Product)

Restraint: Any device which prevents, resists or limits the free movement of the piping.

Restraining Control Device: Any hydraulic, mechanical, spring, or rigid device used for the control of shock and sway in piping systems.

Rigid Hanger: A Pipe Hanger which does not permit vertical movement.

Rigid Support: A Pipe Support which does not permit vertical movement.

Riser: Any vertical portion of a piping system.

Riser Clamp: A Pipe Clamp for the support of vertical piping having separate Load Bolts, to transfer the piping load to the remainder of the Pipe Hanger Assembly. (See Product)

Rod Coupling: A tapped device used to join two threaded rods.

Rod Hanger: An adjustable vertical assembly consisting of a Structural Attachment, Hanger Rod (with or without intermediate components), and Pipe Attachments. (See Product)

Roll Stand: A pipe roller mounted in a stand, used to support horizontal piping from beneath and providing for axial movement.

Roll and Plate: A pipe roller and bearing plate used for minimal axial movement where no vertical adjustment is necessary.

Roll Hanger: A Pipe Attachment which utilizes a pipe roller for axial movement and is used in a Suspension Hanger.

Roll Plate: A flat device which provides a bearing surface for a pipe roll.

Saddle: See Pipe Covering Protection Saddle. (See Product)

Semi-Engineered Hanger Assembly: A Pipe Hanger Assembly which has been indicated on a piping drawing and has been designated as a specific type; i.e. rigid, spring, etc. with Spring Hangers indicating load, movement, spring type and size. This hanger assembly is field fabricated utilizing Bulk Material where applicable.

Shear Lug: A welded Pipe Attachment subjected primarily to shear stress, transferring axial pipe load to the supporting member.

Shield: See Protection Shield.

Side Beam Bracket: A Bracket provided with a hole in the vertical leg for bolting to the building structure and a hole in the horizontal leg to receive a threaded Hanger Rod.

Side Beam Clamp: A Beam Clamp that attaches to a flange of an I-beam or wide flange beam and provides an off-center attachment for the remainder of a Pipe Hanger Assembly.

Single Pipe Roll: A Pipe Attachment which utilizes a Pipe Roll for axial movement and is used in a Trapeze Hanger or Support.

Sleeper: A horizontal beam, usually located at grade, upon which horizontal pipe runs are supported.

Slide Plate: A flat plate whose surface has been prepared in a manner which will facilitate a sliding motion. (See Product)

Sliding Support: A device providing support from beneath by offering no resistance, other than frictional, to horizontal movement.

Snubber: A hydraulic, mechanical, or spring device used for the control of shock and sway in piping systems. (See Product)

Spider Guide: A Pipe Attachment for insulated piping used for maintaining alignment of piping through its axial expansion and contraction cycles. (See Product)

Split Ring: A Pipe Clamp used on non-insulated piping, provided with a hinge which permits installation before or after the piping is in place.

Spring Cushion Hanger: A simple, non-calibrated, single rod spring support, used for providing a cushioning effect.

Spring Cushion Roll: A pair of spring coils with retainers, for use with a Single Pipe Roll.

Spring Hanger: A Pipe Hanger, using a spring or springs, to permit vertical movement in a piping system. (See Product)

Spring Snubber: See Spring Sway Brace. (See Product)

Spring Sway Brace: A spring device used for the control of vibration or shock, or bracing against sway in piping systems. (See Product)

Stanchion: A Pipe Support using a vertical member in compression.

Steel Clevis: A forged or fabricated device used to fit over a welding lug in the attachment of a pipe to a structural support. (See Product)

Stop: A device used to limit pipe movement in a specific direction.

Structural Attachment: A device used to connect the remainder of the Pipe Hanger Assembly to the structure.

Strut: A rigid tension/compression member. (See Product)

Sway Brace: See Restraint Control Device. (See Product)

Swivel Turnbuckle: A device which provides flexibility at the pipe connection, in addition to linear adjustment for Suspension Hanger.

Three Bolt Pipe Clamp: A Pipe Clamp normally used for horizontal insulated piping, which utilizes clamping bolts to attach the clamp to the pipe and a separate Load Bolt to transfer the piping weight to the remainder of the Pipe Hanger Assembly from a point outside the insulation. (See Product)

Top Beam Clamp: A Beam Clamp which attaches to the top of a structural beam and provides an attachment to the remainder of the Pipe Hanger Assembly from the side of the beam.

Trapeze Hanger: A Pipe Hanger consisting of parallel vertical rods which are suspended from a structure and connected at their lower ends by a horizontal member from which the pipe is supported. Some of its uses are for clearing overhead obstructions or where insufficient vertical space is available to accommodate a single Suspension Hanger.

Travel Indicator: For Constant Support Hangers, a device attached to a moveable arm of a Constant Support Hanger, used to indicate the reading on the Travel Scale in order to show the vertical pipe movement. For Variable Spring Hangers, the spring load plate which indicates the reading on the Load/Travel scale in order to show the vertical pipe movement.

Travel Scale: A device attached to a spring unit, whose purpose is to provide for an indication of the vertical pipe movement.

Travel Stop: A device which temporarily locks the moveable parts of a Spring Hanger in a fixed position, enabling a load to be transferred through the Spring Hanger to the supporting structure while maintaining the piping at a desired elevation during erection and/or Hydrostatic Testing.

Turnbuckle: A device with one left-hand female threaded end and one right-hand female threaded end, used to join two threaded rods and provide linear adjustment. (See Product)

U-Bolt: A U-shaped rod with threaded ends, that fits around a pipe and is attached to a supporting member. (See Product)

Vapor Barrier: An uninterrupted covering for an insulated pipe to preclude the introduction of moisture into the insulation.

Variability: The Load Variation of a Variable Spring Hanger divided by the Hot Load expressed as a percentage.

Variable Spring Hanger: A spring coil device which produces a varying supporting effect while permitting vertical pipe movement. (See Product)

Welded Beam Attachment: A u-shaped flat bar device, normally welded to a steel beam used to connect the remainder of a Pipe Hanger Assembly. (See Product)

Welded Pipe Attachment: A Pipe Attachment which requires welding to the pipe in order to connect the pipe to the remainder of the Pipe Hanger Assembly. (See Product)

Welding Lug: A steel device that is welded to supports or structural steel to allow for the suspension of pipe using rod hangers. (See Product)

Weldless Eye Nut: A forged steel device which provides for the attachment of a threaded Hanger Rod to a bolt or pin connection. (See Product)

Wide Flange Beam Clamp with Links: A steel Beam Clamp for the suspension of pipe loads from structural beams.

Yoke U-Bolt: A type of clamp that includes a u-shaped rod with threaded ends, that fits around a pipe and is recommended for the suspension of high-temperature piping. (See Product)

Fabric Expansion Joints Designed for a Textile Sheets, Polymer and Fiber Plant

Fabric Expansion Joints Designed for a Textile Sheets, Polymer and Fiber Plant

 Type:  Fabric Expansion Joint
 Size:  36″ L | 24-1/2″ W | 24-1/2″ L
 Material:  1-Ply ReinForced Silicone Fabric | Carbon Steel
 Design:  300°F @ 3 psig | 6″ Lateral Movement
 Testing:  100% Dye-Penetrant

U.S. Bellows designed fabric expansion joint for a textile sheets, polymer, and fiber plant in Virginia. The dimensions for the expansion joints are 36" long, 24-1/2" wide, and 24-1/2" long. These fabric expansion joints are fabricated of carbon steel flanges with 1-ply reinforced silicone fabric. The expansion joints are designed for 300°F with an operating pressure of 3 psig, and movement of 6" lateral. A dye penetrant examination on the welds was performed prior to shipment.

Fabric expansion joints are used in a wide array of applications playing a crucial role in preventing damage to equipment, ensuring system reliability, and maintaining overall safety in industrial processes. Some examples of where they are used are:

  • Cement plants for ducts and exhaust systems associated with high temperature operations.
  • Mining industry for mineral and material handling including smelting.
  • HVAC systems for duct work to address any thermal movements or vibrations.
  • Marine and shipbuilding applications where exhaust systems, engine piping and other critical areas movement and vibrations must be managed.
  • Renewable energy facilities such a waste to energy or bioenergy plants in which the incineration operations are critical.
  • Paper and Pulp mills for ducting systems in drying and paper manufacturing processes.
  • Steel Mills for blast furnace systems and exhausting ducts.
  • Chemical plants to handle dynamic forces associated with chemical reactions, temperature variations and corrosive environments.
  • Power plants Fossil Fuel and Nuclear plants to manage vibrations and thermal axial expansion that could stress components and fixed equipment.

We have a 24/7 field service team that works on fabric expansion joints. One of our loyal customers, a North American-based energy company, reached out to us for warranty work on one of our Fabric Expansion Joints and our fierce Fabric Expansion Joint team lead, stepped in and stepped up! She flew up to West Virginia and completed the work. We are dedicated to the success of our products in the field even after they leave our plant.

PT&P REF. ORIGINAL POST 02052019

Standard Pipe Support Components Available on Amazon

Need a standard product quickly? Or know what you need and don’t need a quote? Skip the line and order through Amazon. From forged carbon steel turnbuckles and light or heavy 2-bolt, 3-bolt pipe clamps, riser clamps to long tangent u-bolts, we stock standard sizes for your quick-turn orders.

*If you need assistance, we are always available 24×7 via our emergency service or just send an email to info@pipingtech.com.

 

Ptp fig30 forgedcsturnbuckle
Fig. 30 Forged Carbon Steel Turnbuckle
Ptp fig60 heavy 2 bolt pipe clamp
Fig. 60 Heavy Two-Bolt Pipe Clamp
Ptp fig70 light 3 bolt pipe clamp
Fig. 70 Light Three-Bolt Pipe Clamp
Ptp fig80 heavy 3 bolt pipe clamp
Fig. 80 Heavy Three-Bolt Pipe Clamp
Ptp fig90 riser clamp
Fig. 90 Riser Clamp
Ptp fig100 long tangent u bolt
Fig. 100 Long Tangent U-Bolt
Ptp fig90 riser clamp
Piping Technology & Products, Inc. Expansion Joint (85 PSI)
Ptp fig100 long tangent u bolt
Piping Technology & Products, Inc. Expansion Joint (150 PSI)
Ptp fig90 riser clamp
Piping Technology & Products, Inc. Expansion Joint (300 PSI)

Universal Hinged Fabric Expansion Joints for a Chemical Plant in Delaware

Hinged Fabric Expansion Joints for a Chemical Plant in Delaware
U.S. Bellows designed these hinged universal fabric expansion joints for a chemical plant in Delaware. The expansion joints are 84″ in diameter and 60″ OAL. The fabric belt is made with PTFE while the rest of the components are from carbon steel. The expansion joints are designed for an operating temperature of 650°F at 1 psig and 1/2″ of angular movement. The units were 100% dye-penetrate examined was performed prior to shipment.

PT&P REF. ORIGINAL POST 02292016

Custom Designed Externally Pressurized Expansion Joints for a Flare Header Application at a Mississippi Refinery

Custom Designed Externally Pressurized Expansion Joints for a Flare Header Application in Mississippi

Type: Externally Pressurized Expansion Joint
Size: 133 11/16″ and 120.5″ Long | Both Have 42″ Pipe Dia.
Design: Inconel 625 | Carbon Steel
Material: 450°F at 108 psig & 31″ and 25″ Axial Compression
Testing: Hydro-tested at 167, PMI, 100% X-Ray, and Dye-Penetrant

U.S. Bellows custom designed these externally pressurized expansion joints for a flare header application at a refinery in Mississippi. One unit measures 133-11/16" long and the other measures 120-1/2" long and both are manufactured for a 42" pipe diameter. The bellows were fabricated from Inconel 625 and used in conjunction with a carbon steel pipe per A671-CC-60 CL.22. The carbon steel pipe is finished with a 2-coat paint system for corrosion protection. They are manufactured for a design pressure of 108 psig at 450°F with 31" and 25" of axial compression. All alloy material was PMI inspected. The units were hydro tested at 167 psig, 100% dye-penetrant tested, and the bellows and pipe weld seams were 100% X-ray tested prior to shipment.

Expansion joint applications are varied depending on the type of plant. Some applications include:

  • Exhaust systems for Aerospace, Trucks, Marine Piping
  • Solid waste incineration for Renewables and Biofuel plants
  • Waste Water Treatment plants for Municipal water districts as well as manufacturing plants
  • Kilns in Mining, Food, and Plastics plants
  • Geothermal Plants
  • Gas Turbines
  • FCC units
  • Heat exchangers
  • Steam distribution in Geothermal plants
  • Water cooling systems for Nuclear power plants such as inlet of condenser cooling water from lakes or large bodies of water
  • Thermal Oxidizer systems in polymer processing
  • Boller Duct Expansions
  • Vacuum Jacketed piping systems in LNG

We have built, supplied, installed, replaced, audited, repaired, and tested expansion joints for most piping systems applications. Our in-house expertise in handling different types of materials needed for expansion joints made of carbon steel, stainless, alloy steel, high nickel alloys, and aluminum spans over our 48 years of work. Welding specialties include TIG, pulse-arc MIG, SMAW, SUB-ARC, and Aluminium. Our qualifications for expansion joints are ASME Section IX, AWS D1.1, NS, and MIL-STD-248. Testing can specified to include any or all of the following depending on project and application requirements:

  • magnetic particle-dry method
  • Liquid penetrant-visible and fluorescent
  • Ultrasonic and radiography
  • Hydrostatic and Pneumatic testing

US Bellows, a subsidiary of Piping Technology and Products, is a member of the EJMA association which maintains a set of standards for quality expansion joint design and manufacturing. The standards are used as a worldwide reference for the proper selection and application of expansion joints.

PT&P REF. ORIGINAL POST 02202018

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Fabric Expansion Joint for an Inlet Duct Application at a Gas Turbine Facility

Fabric Expansion Joint for an Inlet Volute Duct Application at a Gas Turbine Facility

 Type:  Fabric Expansion Joint
 Size:  143″ long x 61″ wide x 12″ face-to-face
 Material:  PTFE Fiberglass Reinforced Fabric Belt & 304 Stainless Steel
 Design:  -20°F to 600°F , +/- 100″ water column, 0.5″ Axial & 1″ Lateral
 Testing:  Dye-Penetrant

U.S. Bellows fabricated this rectangular fabric expansion joint for an inlet duct application at a gas turbine facility. The unit is 143″ long x 61″ wide x 12″ face-to-face. The fabric belt is made from reinforced PTFE fiberglass and the frame and liner from 304 stainless steel. It is designed for an operating temperature ranging from -20°F to 600°F with a pressure of +/- 100″ water column, with 0.5″ of axial compression and 1″ of lateral deflection. A dye-penetrant examination was performed on all the structural frame welds prior to shipment.

Fabric expansion joints are used in a wide array of applications playing a crucial role in preventing damage to equipment, ensuring system reliability, and maintaining overall safety in industrial processes. Some examples of where they are used are:

    • Cement plants for ducts and exhaust systems associated with high temperature operations.

 

    • Mining industry for mineral and material handling including smelting.

 

    • HVAC systems for duct work to address any thermal movements or vibrations.

 

    • Marine and shipbuilding applications where exhaust systems, engine piping and other critical areas movement and vibrations must be managed.

 

    • Renewable energy facilities such a waste to energy or bioenergy plants in which the incineration operations are critical.

 

    • Paper and Pulp mills for ducting systems in drying and paper manufacturing processes.

 

    • Steel Mills for blast furnace systems and exhausting ducts

 

    • Chemical plants to handle dynamic forces associated with chemical reactions, temperature variations and corrosive environments.

 

  • Power plants: Fossil Fuel and Nuclear plants to manage vibrations and thermal axial expansion that could stress components and fixed equipment.

PT&P REF. ORIGINAL POST 06252018

Rectangular Expansion Joints Custom Designed for an Air Fan Ducting Application in Texas

Usbellows rectangular expansion joint 166850

 

 Type:  Rectangular Expansion Joints
 Size:  37-3/8″ Wide | 65″ Long | 16″ FTF
 Material:  304 Stainless Steel | Carbon Steel
 Design:  250°F Operating Temperature @ 5 psig
 Testing:  100% Dye-Penetrant

U.S. Bellows custom-designed two of these rectangular expansion joints for an air fan ducting application at a chemical facility in Texas. They are 37-3/8″ wide, 65″ long, and 16″ face-to-face. The bellows and liner were fabricated from 304 stainless steel, with the rest of the components from carbon steel. The units are designed for an operating temperature of 250°F at 5 psig. The expansion joints were 100% dye-penetrant tested prior to shipment.

Rectangular expansion joints have many applications in which they are used. They can be used in blast furnaces in steel processing facilities, APH Air preheaters in refineries, and for ducting in large systems in many industries in petrochem, mining, LNG and steel mills. We have built over 400 such units over the last couple of years of varying metallurgy ranging from carbon steel to stainless to inconel. We currently have inconel units in production for a large LNG facility to meet the newly established FERC requirements around spillage, environmental considerations, and, most importantly, safety.

Manufacturing expansion joints involves a precise blend of scientific principles and manufacturing craftsmanship. Rectangular expansion joints present distinctive challenges, particularly in relation to edge welding requirements. Without the necessary expertise, there is a risk of encountering issues such as sugaring—a form of oxidation that arises when an inadequate amount of purging gas is utilized during welding.

It’s worth noting that circumferential welds in typical round expansion joints, which are both welded and formed simultaneously, do not face the same concerns. In contrast, rectangular expansion joints undergo a two-step process where they are first formed and then welded, introducing unique considerations.

We conduct thorough in-house testing for all our expansion joints, encompassing a comprehensive range of assessments:

  • Burst Testing
  • Dye Penetration testing
  • Fatigue/Cycle Testing
  • Hydrostatic testing
  • Helium Leak testing
  • Ultrasonic Testing
  • Radiography Testing
  • PMI Testing
  • Pneumatic Testing
  • Magnetic Particle Testing
  • Leak Detection Testing.

Rectangular expansion joints represent a subset of the assessments conducted for typical round expansion joints. Specifically, for rectangular expansion joints, we perform leak, hydro, and pneumatic testing.

PT&P REF. ORIGINAL POST 07222019

Fabric Expansion Joints for a Carbon Gas Application at an Oil and Gas Facility

Fabric Expansion Joints for a Carbon Gas application at an Oil and Gas Facility

 Type:  Fabric Expansion Joint
 Size:  20″ Diameter & 18″ Length
 Material:  1-Ply PTFE Fabric Belt/Carbon Steel Framework
 Design:  -20°F/+600°F with a +/- 20″ Water Column, and +/- 1″ of Axial Compression & Lateral Offset
 Testing:  100% Dye-Penetrant

U.S Bellows fabricated these fabric expansion joints for a carbon gas application at an oil and gas facility in Louisiana. These units are 20″ in diameter and 18" in length. The 1-ply fabric belt is made from PTFE, and the framework is carbon steel. They are designed for an operating temperature of -20°F/+600°F with a +/- 20" water column and +/- 1" of axial compression and lateral offset. The welds of the units were dye penetrant tested prior to shipment.

US Bellows and its subsidiaries have served as leading global suppliers of carbon black worldwide. Material from these plants is made to exacting standards for tires, coatings, ink, batteries, plastics, and numerous other specialty high-performance applications. Carbon black is produced from the thermal decomposition of heavy petroleum raw materials, such as coal tar, ethylene cracking tar, or FCC tar. It is widely utilized owing to its various beneficial characteristics, including surging tire tread wear and rolling resistance, effectively absorbing ultraviolet (UV) light and converting it into heat, improved thermal conductivity, and superior UV protection. Several processes, such as oil furnaces and thermal, are mainly used to manufacture carbon black. In addition to providing expansion joints, we have provided the following products from our portfolio of manufactured in our facility in Houston, Texas:

  • Constant Spring Hangers
  • Metallic Expansion Joints
  • Pipe Shoes, Guides, and Anchors
  • Insulated Supports
  • Paddle Blinds and Spacers
  • Pipe Hangers Hardware
  • Slide Bearing Plates
  • Instrument Supports
  • Variable Spring Hangers

PT&P REF. ORIGINAL POST 08122017

Fabric Expansion Joint Designed for a High-Temperature Duct Application

Usbellows fabric expansion joint 170218

Type: Fabric Expansion Joints
Size: 67″ Long x 67″ Wide x 14″ Tall
Material: 3-Layer Fabric Belt with Kaowool Insulation
304 Stainless Steel Angle Flanges
Design Operating Temp: 2012°F at +/- 100″ Water Column
1″ of Lateral Deflection
Testing: 100% Dye Penetrant Testing & Q.C. Inspection

Fabric pipe expansion joints are often used in ducts that carry hot gasses at low pressures. The major design parameters are the temperatures and flow rates of the gasses and the amount and abrasiveness of solids suspended in the gasses. This fabric expansion joint utilizes a bulky flexible material, also called an Insulation Pillow, to shield against high temperatures protecting the belting material. Refractory is also used in the construction of this joint but is designed so that it does not interfere with movement. Our experienced engineers know that every element of this expansion joint plays a role in its rating for certain temperatures and the number of hours of operation. View Fabric Expansion Joints Product Section.
Fabric expansion joints are key in the systems supporting power and refining plants focused around renewable carbon-neutral product offerings. We have worked with the new entrants in the marketplace but also helped our long-term clients transition their older fossil fuel-based assets to green technology. These plants include biochar from biomass processing, carbon black, clean hydrogen, styrene, and cement.

PT&P REF. ORIGINAL POST 03182020

Pressure Balanced Tee Universal Expansion Joint for a Boiler Feed Pump Turbine Exhaust

Pressure Balanced Tee Universal Expansion Joint for a Boiler Feed Pump Turbine Exhaust

U.S. Bellows, Inc. custom-designed a pressure-balanced tee universal expansion joint for a boiler feed pump turbine exhaust within a power plant for a major electric utility provider in the midwest with its founding roots in the 1880s, almost 140 years ago. Today they serve over 1.7M customers in the US, focusing on electricity generation, electric power transmission, and electricity distribution.

The expansion joint is 96" in diameter and 288" OAL and is designed for 2" axial movement and 1/8" lateral movement at both 15 psig and Full vacuum (-14.7 psig) at 315 deg.F. The bellows, liner, and turning vanes are 304 stainless steel. The remainder of the assembly is fabricated from carbon steel. The expansion joint was dye penetrant examined, and a chemical cleaning of the interior surfaces was performed to remove any oil and grease. U.S. Bellows also conducted a stress analysis and a pneumatic test at 23 psig.

Our U.S. Bellows division is a member of the Expansion Joint Manufacturers Association – EJMA. EJMA is recognized as the world’s leading authority on the proper selection and application of metallic bellows-type expansion joints for safe and reliable piping and vessel installation. As a proud member, we design and manufacture our expansion joints to meet or exceed the guidelines and practices set forth by this association.

PT&P REF. ORIGINAL POST 03/02/2021

13 Foot Universal Expansion Joint Custom Designed with Incoloy Bellows and Manufactured in the USA for Service in a Chemical Plant

Usbellows universal expansion joint 150651v2

 

 Type:  Universal Expansion Joint
 Size:  157″ Long x 28″ Diameter
 Material:  Incoloy 825 |  321 SS | 304 SS
 Design:  Operating Temp: 842°F a t 190 psig
Movement 8.875″ Lateral Deflection
 Testing:  Dye Penetrant Examined | 100% X-Rayed Bellows
Longitudinal Seams | PMI Examined | Hydro-tested

This 13′ long universal expansion joint was custom designed for a chemical plant that manufactures products such as amines, glycol, polyurethanes (isocyanates and polyol), butanols, polyethylene, and hydrogen peroxide. The bellows were fabricated from Incoloy 825, the welds and liner from 321 stainless steel, and the cover tie rods from 304 stainless steel. The 157″ long unit is 28″ in diameter. It is designed for an operating temperature of 842°F at 190 psig and 8.875″ of lateral deflection. Prior to shipment, the units were 100% dye penetrant tested, and the bellows longitudinal seams were 100% X-rayed, PMI examined, and hydro-tested.

Piping Technology and Products and its subsidiaries are the only global provider of engineered supports and expansion joints in the world. Our manufacturing facilities and processes are set up to support the manufacturing of different materials should the project need it. For this project, the client requested the bellows be made of a combination of Incoloy and stainless steel. We have the experience to work with an extraordinarily broad range of materials, including high-strength steel, a full range of stainless steel, super alloys, thermoplastics, and insulation isolation materials.

PT&P REF. ORIGINAL POST 07142020

Rubber Expansion Joints Designed for Water Cooling Loops at a Chemical Plant

Ptp rubber expansion joint 152915 (1)

Type: Neoprene Expansion Joint
Size: 3×10, 6×10, 8×12, 10×14
Material: Neoprene Twin Sphere Rubber Tubing with 304 SS Flanges & Covers
Design Operating Temp: 225°F at 225 psig | 1-3/8″ – 1-3/4″ of Lateral Offset
Testing: Hydro-Tested | PMI on all Rubber Joint Root-Rings

These neoprene expansion joints were custom-designed for water cooling loops at a chemical plant in Louisiana. They have a neoprene twin sphere rubber tubing with 304 stainless steel flanges and covers. U.S. Bellows fabricated five of each of the following dimensions: 3×10, 6×10, 8×12, and 10×14. They are designed for an operating temperature of 225°F at 225 psig and 1-3/8″ – 1-3/4″ of lateral offset. The units were hydro-tested and PMI on all rubber joint root-rings prior to shipment.

Besides chemical plants, other plants that utilize rubber expansion joints are air scrubber systems, sewage treatment, wastewater treatment, and water treatment plants. Combined cycle power plants also often utilize rubber spool-type expansion joints. No matter the application, our team of experienced engineers and designers can help to resolve your expansion joint needs. Please contact us via our 24×7 emergency service or send an email to info@pipingtech.com.

PT&P REF. ORIGINAL POST 06242020

81″ Diameter Pressure Balanced Tee Expansion Joints Custom Designed for a Chemical Plant

81” Diameter Pressure Balanced Tee Expansion Joints Custom Designed for a Chemical Plant

Type: Pressure Balanced Tee Expansion Joints
Size: 352″ OAL | 81″ Dia. | 90″ Centerline to Bevel End
Material: 304 Stainless Steel | CS
Design 392°F at 15 psig | 6″ Axial Compression
Testing: 100% Dye Penetrant | Air Soap and Bubble test

U.S. Bellows custom designed pressure balanced tee expansion joints for a chemical plant in Texas. The units are 352″ overall length, 81″ diameter, and 90″ center line to the bevel-end of the tee. All assemblies were completely fabricated from 304 stainless steel. They are designed for an operating temperature of 392°F at 15 psig, with 6″ of axial compression and 1.25″ of lateral deflection. The expansion joints were 100% dye penetrate tested and air soap and bubble tested prior to shipment.

We can also design and manufacture refractory lined expansion joints for these types that are able to expand and contract as conditions move from hot to cold. These units can be installed in refineries, power plants, and various green energy facilities where no other option is practical. Our team of engineers and manufacturing staff are ready and willing to assist in helping solve any design and/or manufacturing challenges. We can also refurbish existing units to help decrease the time operations are shut down. We assure you that our 24×7 web-based emergency and quick-turn-around service can help when you need it most.
View Expansion Joint Product Section.

PT&P REF. ORIGINAL POST 04192019

Hinged Expansion Joints Designed for a Steam Exhaust Application

Usbellows hinged expansion joints 159045

Type: Hinged Expansion Joints
Size: 42″ Long | 16″ Nominal Pipe Size
Material: 316L Stainless Steel | Carbon Steel
Design 400°F at 150 psig | 4.25″ Lateral | 1° Angular
Testing: 100% Dye Pen. | Bellows Longitudinal Seams
100% X-rayed | Hydro-Tested at 250 psig

U.S. Bellows custom-designed hinged universal expansion joint for a steam exhaust application at a chemical plant in Texas for one of the largest cracker installations in the USA to support the manufacture of mainly olefins and polypropylene. The units are 42″ long and have a nominal pipe size of 16″. The bellows are fabricated from 316L stainless steel. The flanges, pipe spool, and hardware are carbon steel. They are designed for an operating temperature of 400°F at 150 psig. They are capable of 4.25″ lateral deflection and 1° of angular movement. The expansion joints were 100% dye penetrant tested, the bellows longitudinal seams were 100% X-rayed, and a hydro-test at 250 psig was performed prior to shipment.

PT&P REF. ORIGINAL POST 02112020

Video Category: Metallic Expansion Joints

Video Category: Expansion Joints Info

Video Category: Fabric Expansion Joints

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