An expansion joint absorbs dilations, vibrations and movements in industrial piping. When it fails, production stops. Understanding the factors that determine an expansion joint’s useful life makes it possible to prevent unscheduled shutdowns and optimise investment in assets.<\/p>\n
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Working close to temperature and pressure limits accelerates fatigue in the material.<\/strong> Nevertheless, the type and frequency of the movements are equally decisive. A system with constant heat cycles subjects the joint to repetitive expansion and contraction stresses that can exceed its elastic capacity, causing premature failure if it is not correctly dimensioned for these cycles.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n The material must be very precisely chosen. Aggressive fluids, such as acrylic or phosphoric acid, require specific solutions. In addition, the exterior surroundings have a drastic influence.<\/strong> The UV radiation, the environmental humidity or suspended particles can degrade the external layer of the joint. A material that’s unsuitable for the external environment is just as hazardous as one that’s incompatible with the internal fluid.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Even the best joint can fail with poor installation. The most common errors include:<\/p>\nChemical compatibility and the environment<\/h2>\n
The impact of installation and maintenance<\/h2>\n