‘Tell me the operating conditions of your system and I will tell you which expansion joint to
choose’.
Let’s pick up where we left off: in our last blog post we started with a brief overview of the
factors that influence the characteristics of expansion joints.
With this short guide, we want to help our readers to find their way in choosing the most
suitable expansion joint; in fact, only the product that takes into account a whole series of
factors can perform at its best.
In the previous post we considered high temperatures, pressure and chemical resistance; in
this second part we look at the other conditions that can frequently be found in systems.
1. High need for versatility and compensation of large movements
Every mechanical application requires a certain type of movement and depending on the
nature of the movements required, it is necessary to choose an expansion joint that offers
the right combination of flexibility and precision.
At New Componit, in addition to the already mentioned Piperflex fabric expansion joints,
which are ideal for high temperature wall applications, we offer Enerflex compensators.
The fabric expansion joints of Enerflex line are particularly suitable in energy field, especially
for applications in air ducts and low-aggressive flue gas ducts.
Their multilayer composition and the materials used in their construction guarantee a high capacity to
compensate for very large movements, giving these expansion joints maximum operational
versatility.
2. Need for thermal reduction
In many industrial applications, overheating of components can cause failure or reduce
operating efficiency. Expansion joints with thermal abatement capabilities are designed to
dissipate the heat generated during operation, thus protecting sensitive components and
prolonging system life.
If you are looking for an expansion joint that provides maximum thermal but also acoustic
abatement, we at New Componit can recommend a fabric expansion joint from the Airflex
line.
The Airflex line includes fabric expansion joints that offer high thermal-acoustic
abatement and are insulated for low and high temperatures. In particular, two main groups
can be distinguished within this range: components designed to work fully insulated
externally, applicable at temperatures close to 800°C, and expansion joints designed for
ventilation, capable of working at temperatures not exceeding 150°C, but with significant
noise abatement characteristics
3. Need for noise abatement and vibration damping
If you work in an environment where noise reduction is a priority, such as in an industrial
plant close to residential areas, or you are looking for an expansion joint for applications that
require low noise impact, the expansion joints with noise reduction properties are the
right solution for you.
These expansion joints are designed to absorb vibrations and reduce the noise
generated during plant operation and your choice can be between textile or rubber
expansion joints.
If you are looking for an expansion joint that provides maximum vibration damping, the
fabric expansion joints of Vibraflex line may be the right choice for you. Please note,
however, that the application conditions for this type of expansion joint are low
temperatures (up to 200°C).
Expansion joints of Vibraflex line have different construction solutions, depending on the
design data and characteristics of the conveyed fluids; in particular, if you need your
expansion joint not only to have the ability to dampen vibrations, preventing them from
propagating along the ducts and structure of your plant, but also to have a high noise
insulation performance, we at New Componit have developed the Vibraflex SOUND series
of compensators, which combine vibration dampening and soundproofing.
Rubber expansion joints, on the other hand, are made of any reinforced elastomer
and/or fluorelastomer, such as natural or synthetic rubbers, giving the joints a special
elasticity. Thanks to this characteristic, rubber expansion joints are able to maximise
vibration damping and noise reduction; furthermore, being reinforced and of suitable
thicknesses they also offer good pressure resistance.
Rubber expansion joints are typically used for gas turbine ducts and any fan model, as well
as in hydraulic systems and piping.
If you need maximum noise dampening performance, rubber expansion joints from the
Acuflex range are perfect for you: they provide both high vibration dampening and noise
abatement performance, as well as maximum pressure sealing.
Another solution that combines noise damping and minimum vibration propagation,
indispensable capabilities of expansion joints on military vessels, for example, is the
Navyflex fabric expansion joints: these expansion joints are specifically designed for
naval applications, have a multi-layer design and are capable of excellent pressure
sealing.
After this quick overview it is, therefore, clear that choosing the right expansion joint for
you, requires careful evaluation of your specific operating conditions and project
requirements.
We at New Componit are at your side to offer you the best solutions to meet any challenge,
ensuring that the expansion joint you choose meets your specific operational needs.
Do not hesitate to contact us for advice: our team of experts is always ready to help you
choose the right expansion joint.
Tommaso Gatto – Export Manager
