Expansion Joints

Multi-ply metallic bellows fabricated from high-strength stainless steel alloys accommodate axial, lateral, and angular movements caused by thermal fluctuations. Optimized convolution geometry ensures even stress distribution, significantly reducing fatigue risk. This design prevents transmission of excessive mechanical loads to connected components. As a result, system integrity is maintained over extended thermal cycles. 

Valve Type

Thermostatic or electronic valve controlling refrigerant flow precisely in HVAC systems.

Flow Regulation Method

Modulates flow based on temperature or pressure changes for efficient system operation.

Differential Pressure Range

Operates effectively within a wide pressure difference to maintain system stability.

Hydraulic Authority Recommendation

Suggested valve authority to ensure optimal control and system performance.

Valve Characteristic Curve

Flow changes proportional to control signal, linear or equal percentage type available.

Product Description

Bellows integrated with elastomeric or fabric reinforcement layers absorb and dissipate vibrational energy from rotating equipment. The controlled stiffness and damping characteristics minimize resonance effects that accelerate wear. This reduces cyclic fatigue on welds, flanges, and adjoining structures. The system benefits from increased operational lifespan and reduced maintenance needs. 

Test Point Configuration

Equipped with test ports for easy pressure and performance verification during maintenance.

Maximum Allowable Flow Velocity

Maximum fluid speed recommended to avoid noise, erosion, or damage in valve components.

Leakage Class (per EN 12266-1)

Meets strict leakage limits ensuring minimal fluid loss and enhanced system reliability.

Body Material Options

Available in brass, stainless steel, or aluminum for corrosion resistance and durability.

Design Pressure Class

Rated for high pressure systems, typically up to PN 40 or ANSI Class 300 standards.

Thermal Expansion Compatibility

Designed to tolerate temperature fluctuations without compromising valve integrity or function.

Installation Sensitivity

Requires specific orientation and piping conditions for optimal performance and longevity.

Control Accuracy

High precision flow regulation ensuring stable temperature and pressure control in systems.

Position Repeatability

Valve reliably returns to exact control position after multiple cycles, maintaining consistent flow.

Technical Advantages

Expansion joints feature multi-axis flexibility allowing compensation for angular deflection, lateral offset, and axial movement without inducing bending stresses. Precision-machined swivel flanges ensure proper alignment and load transfer. These features prevent uneven loading that causes premature failure. Complex movement profiles are managed while preserving joint durability. 

Materials such as austenitic stainless steel, nickel alloys, and fluoropolymer linings provide high resistance to pressure and corrosive environments. Bellows are manufactured using orbital welding to ensure uniform weld integrity and prevent crack initiation. Rigorous hydrostatic and pneumatic testing validate leak-tightness under design conditions. This guarantees reliable performance in aggressive industrial applications. 

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Industry Applications

Power Generation

Accommodate thermal expansion and vibration in steam, gas, and nuclear turbines, maintaining pressure containment under high-temperature cycles.

Petrochemical Processing

Handle corrosive fluids and thermal fluctuations in pipelines transporting aggressive chemicals, ensuring leak-tight flexible connections.

Oil and Gas

Absorb axial and lateral movements in subsea and onshore pipelines subjected to pressure surges and temperature gradients.

HVAC Systems

Compensate for thermal expansion and mechanical vibrations in large-scale ductwork, reducing noise transmission and structural stress.

Marine Engineering

Provide flexibility in shipboard piping systems exposed to engine vibrations, thermal variations, and mechanical movement from hull flexing.

Chemical Industry

Resist chemical corrosion and pressure cycling in transfer lines conveying acids, solvents, and other reactive media.

Maintenance and Installation Efficiency

Modular designs with standardized flange dimensions reduce installation complexity and improve alignment accuracy. Detailed material traceability and non-destructive examination (NDE) support quality assurance and regulatory compliance. Built-in monitoring options, like strain gauges, enable real-time condition tracking.

Expansion joints are engineered to absorb transient pressure spikes and hydraulic shocks that occur during system startups, shutdowns, or sudden flow changes. The elasticity of the bellows combined with the damping properties of internal reinforcements dissipates shock waves, preventing damage to piping and sensitive equipment. 

Having Doubts? Our FAQ

Check all our Frequently Asked Question

How does Frigate ensure the durability of expansion joints under cyclic thermal loading?

Frigate employs advanced finite element analysis (FEA) to simulate thermal cycling effects on bellows geometry. This identifies stress concentrations and optimizes convolution design for even stress distribution. High-grade stainless steel alloys with proven fatigue resistance are selected based on application requirements. Rigorous testing validates performance over millions of thermal cycles before delivery.

What material selection criteria does Frigate use for expansion joints exposed to aggressive chemical environments?

Frigate evaluates chemical compatibility by analyzing media properties such as pH, temperature, and corrosivity. Materials like Inconel®, Hastelloy®, and PTFE linings are chosen to resist specific chemical attacks. Weld procedures and joint designs are tailored to prevent galvanic corrosion and material degradation. Comprehensive lab testing ensures long-term resistance under operational conditions.

How does Frigate control dimensional tolerances during expansion joint manufacturing to ensure proper fit?

Precision CNC machining is utilized for flange and bellows components to maintain tight dimensional tolerances. Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMM) verify conformity against design specifications throughout production. Assembly processes incorporate jigs and fixtures to ensure alignment and prevent misfit. These steps reduce installation issues and improve system reliability.

What quality assurance processes does Frigate implement to verify expansion joint performance before shipment?

Non-destructive testing methods like dye penetrant, radiography, and ultrasonic inspection detect weld defects and material inconsistencies. Hydrostatic and pneumatic pressure tests confirm leak-tightness and pressure ratings. Dimensional inspections validate compliance with engineering drawings and standards such as EJMA. Detailed test reports accompany each unit for traceability and customer assurance.

How does Frigate design expansion joints to mitigate pressure pulsation effects in reciprocating compressor systems?

Bellows geometry and wall thickness are engineered to absorb dynamic pressure spikes without excessive deformation. Internal reinforcements and damping layers reduce stress fluctuations from pulsation forces. Finite element modeling predicts joint behavior under transient pressures to optimize design parameters. These measures prevent fatigue cracking and extend joint service life in pulsating environments.

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LOCATIONS

Global Sales Office

818, Preakness lane, Coppell, Texas, USA – 75019

Registered Office

10-A, First Floor, V.V Complex, Prakash Nagar, Thiruverumbur, Trichy-620013, Tamil Nadu, India.

Operations Office

9/1, Poonthottam Nagar, Ramanandha Nagar, Saravanampatti, Coimbatore-641035, Tamil Nadu, India. ㅤ

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Expansion Joints

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Expansion Joints

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