Selection Of Corrugated Expansion Joints

Due to various constraints, it is quite complex. However, any complex piping system can be divided into several relatively simple individual pipe sections, such as "Z" type pipe sections and "∏" type pipe sections, by selecting several fixed supports at different locations and dividing them into several relatively simple individual pipe sections, such as "Z" type pipe sections and "∏" type pipe sections, and determining the deformation and compensation amount of each pipe section. Since there are many types of compensators, it is very important to select the correct type. Therefore, in the overall design of the piping system, the direction of the pipeline and the design of the support system (including fixed pipe supports, guide sliding pipe supports, etc.) should be fully considered, and the shape and configuration of the compensator should be comprehensively considered to achieve a safe, reasonable, applicable and economical combination. In addition, the correct selection of corrugated pipe material is the key to ensuring the performance and life of the compensator. The material selection needs to comprehensively consider the corrosiveness, temperature, pressure and external environment of the working medium. The material is required to have good plasticity, high elastic limit, tensile strength, fatigue strength and excellent welding performance and corrosion resistance.

Corrugated pipe compensators are mainly divided into three categories: axial type, transverse type and angular type. Each category contains a variety of specific structural forms . Bellows compensators are flexible elements with bellows as their core, providing compensation in three directions: axial, lateral, and angular. Axial compensators, designed to reduce self-excitation of the medium, lack an inner sleeve, significantly limiting their radial compensation capability. Therefore, they are generally used only to absorb or compensate for axial displacement (if a small amount of radial displacement is required in the piping system, the maximum radial displacement can be specified when ordering). Lateral displacement compensators (large tie rods) primarily absorb lateral displacement perpendicular to the compensator's axis. Small tie rod lateral displacement compensators are suitable for absorbing lateral displacement and can also absorb axial, angular, and combinations of displacements in any three directions. Hinge compensators (also called angular compensators) are used in pairs or triplets (a single hinge compensator has no compensation capability) to absorb lateral deformation in a single plane. Universal hinge (angular) compensators, used in pairs or triplets, can absorb deformation in three dimensions. With technological advancements, modern compensator selection also needs to consider additional performance characteristics, such as high temperature resistance, shock and vibration resistance (good buffering performance), and protection against external environmental corrosion (e.g., using a protective housing), in order to meet the needs of more complex and demanding working conditions.