Fabric expansion joints for the chemical industry

The Fabric Expansion Joint is constructed using glass fiber or ceramic fibers, along with insulation materials, in a single or multilayer configuration. It is designed to absorb thermal movements, vibrations, and torsion in pipes or ducts. Flexibility is the defining characteristic of Fabric Expansion Joints.

We offer custom designs and fabrication of Expansion Joints to precisely meet installation requirements. The benefits of Fabric Expansion Joints include:

1. Reactive stress prevention
2. Vibration and resonance isolation
3. Ability to absorb movements in multiple directions simultaneously
4. Noise reduction
5. Easy installation
6. Fabrication program for temperatures up to 1000 ºC
7. Single-layer fabric Expansion Joints
Single Layer Expansion Joints consist of Fluorelastomer or Fluoroplastic material with internal reinforcement using fabric or metallic wire mesh. They are primarily used in duct lines with high concentrations of condensed fluids. These Expansion Joints have high density and offer excellent chemical resistance.

Fabric expansion joints for the chemical industry are constructed using various components:

A. The expansion joint itself can be built with flexible elements, either single or multilayered, which include a gas seal membrane (a barrier against chemicals and permeability), a layer of thermal insulation, and reinforcing members.

B. To protect and isolate the flexible elements in contact with the steel parts, an additional reinforcement layer is present in the flange area.

C. The flexible element is clamped to the steel frame of the duct using back-up bars. The specifications for these bars, such as width, distance between drill-holes, and thickness, depend on the type of expansion joint and the operating conditions.

D. Optimum clamping force is achieved by using bolts, along with their nuts and washers.

E. The ductwork steel frame acts as a flanged structure that supports the expansion joint. The design of these frames can vary based on a wide range of geometries determined by the operating conditions. Internal sleeves or baffles may be incorporated into the steel frames to provide mechanical protection for the flexible element and insulation bolster. This protection helps prevent the detrimental effects of turbulent flow, the entry of solid particles, and erosion caused by high-velocity gases.

F. The insulation bag or bolster serves as a "pillow" filled with insulating material. It safeguards the flexible element of the expansion joint against high temperatures and mechanical damage resulting from turbulent flows with high solid particle contents and/or high velocities. Additionally, it significantly reduces noise.