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The preferred method to design universal expansion joints would be to use a larger diameter bellows and use a reducer at the end of the expansion joint. This would ensure angular rotation and axial movement between the two bellows.

 

110493a2
72″ Inch Tied Universal Thick-wall Expansion Joint

To decrease the thrust force in an axial expansion joint you must decrease the height of the bellows. However, this method will also increase the forces necessary to deflect the bellows.

110493a2
Expansion Joint Designed for 2″ Axial Compression

The expansion joint is designed to accommodate all the needed displacements. The tie-rods are part of the expansion joint and designed to absorb all the specified displacements.

99382a1
20″ Diameter Tied Universal Expansion Joint

Universal expansion joints are usually used when there is large lateral motion.

Tied universal expansion joint
Tied universal expansion joint