Bellows-Type Expansion Joint
A Bellows Type Expansion Joint is a flexible connector used in piping systems to absorb thermal expansion, vibration, and mechanical movement. It features one or more bellows elements corrugated metal components combined with suitable end connections such as flanges or weld ends. These joints are critical in protecting pipelines, equipment, and structures from operational stress and fatigue.
What is a Bellows?
A bellows is a flexible, pressure-containing element with one or more convolutions (corrugations) and straight tangent ends the UN-corrugated portions at either side used for welding or connecting.
Bellows typically follow a design ratio of Lb/Db ≤ 3, ensuring optimal flexibility and mechanical strength, where:
• Lb = Overall length of the bellows
• Db = Mean diameter (as per EJMA)
We specialize in the design and production of metal bellows and bellows-type expansion joints tailored to your specifications.
Why LSI-MECH Specialty?
Size Range:Starting from 15 NB and above Materials of Construction
• Austenitic Stainless Steels (SS304, SS316, etc.)
• Nickel Alloys (Inconel®, Monel®)
• Duplex Stainless Steels Alloy 600 & Any Form able Materials based on application needs
Function of Expansion Joints
Why are Metal Expansion Joints required?
In any piping system, metal expansion joints play a crucial role in managing stress and movement. Pipes connecting two fixed points are constantly exposed to various forces that create stress on the pipe walls. If not properly addressed, these stresses can cause fatigue, leakage, or failure over time.
Common causes of Stress in Piping Systems
- Internal or external pressure at operating temperatures
- Frequent fluctuations in temperature or pressure
- Movement from connected equipment or structural constraints
- Vibrations from pumps, compressors, or support structures
- Thermal expansion of the piping material
- An expansion joint/bellow is added in the system to prevent these above stresses/accommodate movements due to these stresses.
Why Choose LSI-MECH Make?
Ability to manufacture custom solutions in any form able material SS, Inconel, Monel, Duplex SS, Alloy 20 etc