Metallic expansion bellows, also known as expansion joints or compensators, are vital components in many industrial systems, designed to absorb thermal expansion, structural movements, and vibrations in piping systems.

Axial Bellow

The simplest type of expansion joint consists of a single bellows element welded to end fittings, normally flange or pipe ends. The single bellows can absorb small amount of axial, lateral and angular movement. The addition of tie rods to a Single Bellows assembly adds design flexibility to a pipe system. The tie rods are attached to the pipe or flange with lugs that carry the the pressure thrust of the system, eliminating the need for main anchors.

Universal Bellows

The Universal Expansion Joint (articulated double expansion joint-containing two bellows joined by a common connector for the purpose of absorbing any combination of the three basic movements : Axial, Lateral and Angular) usually furnished with control rods to distribute the movement between the two bellows of the expansion joint and to stabilize the common connector. Overall control rods govern the movement of the centre pipe section and equally divide motion between the bellows elements. This configuration is used primarily for lateral deflection but can accommodate axial movement as well. Another application for this type of expansion joint utilizes overall tie rods which fix the overall length of the expansion joint and contain full pressure th rust (only lateral deflection is accomodated). Universal Bellows.

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