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Expansion joints
Expansion joints

Flanged bellows expansion joint

Metal bellows expansion joint (Metal Expansion Joint)

The metal bellows expansion joint (Metal Expansion Joint) is a high-tech, flexible industrial device designed to absorb (compensate) thermal changes in piping systems (thermal expansion and contraction), mechanical oscillations (vibration) and axial movements. It keeps the system intact and prevents pipes from deforming and bursting.

Diameter
DN25 – DN3000
Pressure
PN6 – PN64
Temperature
-20…+400 °C
Bellows
AISI 304 / 316 / 321

Bellows expansion joint types

  • AxialFitted on straight pipe runs between fixed supports to absorb axial movement; installed by welding.
  • FlangedThe most common type: a detachable flanged pipe joint that takes up axial loads.
  • AngularFitted at pipe bends; a hinged design moves in one plane and protects the bellows from twisting.
  • GimbalTwo hinged elements allow movement in any plane as well as axially.
  • LateralTwo-section (two bellows): protects the pipeline from lateral offset, most often where it enters a building.

Installation sequence

  • 1. InspectionCheck the joint and the pipe section for defects.
  • 2. PreparationIf needed, secure the joint by its pipe ends and remove the factory preservative.
  • 3. DocumentationRead the data sheet to see whether pre-stretching is required.
  • 4. Fix the pipe endsFix the pipe ends at the distance set by the joint's length.
  • 5. AlignmentCheck that the pipes are axially aligned.
  • 6. Fit-upBring the pipes and the joint together.
  • 7. ConnectionConnect to the pipeline one end at a time.
  • 8. Protective coverFor open installation fit the cover to protect the bellows from the weather and damage. Install without twisting or bending loads.

Technical specifications

Products can also be manufactured to the customer's drawings and technical requirements, including larger diameters.

Flanged bellows expansion joint — Technical specifications
ParameterDescription / Standard values
Product typeAxial metal bellows expansion joint
Connection typeFlanged connection (Fixed/Loose Flanged)
Bellows materialStainless steel (AISI 304, AISI 316, AISI 321)
Flange materialCarbon steel (Carbon Steel St37.2 / A105) or stainless steel
Nominal diameter (DN)From DN25 to DN3000 mm (to order)
Nominal pressure (PN)PN6, PN10, PN16, PN25, PN40, PN64 (or Class 150/300 Lbs)
Working temperature rangeFrom -20 °C to +400 °C (higher for special designs)
Working mediumHot and cold water, steam, natural gas, petroleum products, chemicals
Design standardEJMA (Expansion Joint Manufacturers Association) and EN 1092-1

Parts and materials

  1. 1First flange — St37.2 / A105 steel or stainless steel
  2. 2Neck rings — to be confirmed
  3. 3Bellows — Stainless steel AISI 304 / 316 / 321
  4. 4Inner sleeve — to be confirmed
  5. 5Polished ring — to be confirmed
  6. 6Second flange — St37.2 / A105 steel or stainless steel

Request this product

Send us the diameter, operating conditions and timeline — we will reply with an engineering review and an indicative price.

Key advantages and functions

  • Complete absorption of thermal expansion

    Fully neutralises the longitudinal (axial) elongation and contraction of pipes caused by high and low temperatures.

  • Lower vibration and noise

    Absorbs vibration from pumps, compressors and other dynamic equipment, extending the service life of the system.

  • High durability

    The corrugated stainless-steel section is highly resistant to corrosion and high pressure.

  • Easy installation

    Standard flange holes let it be bolted to the pipeline quickly and securely.

Field of application

Widely used on the main pipelines of combined heat and power plants, district heating systems, oil and gas refineries, chemical plants, metallurgical works and large pumping stations.

  • CHP plants
  • District heating
  • Oil and gas
  • Chemical industry
  • Metallurgy
  • Pumping stations