Flexible expansion joint is manufactured in round, rectangular and oval shapes, as transition pieces, and can be customized to meet specific requirements.
Originally, steel expansion joints were used to absorb movement. With development of synthetic fibers, it was possible to make a flexible connector which permitted movement in all directions.
Thrust calculations
Flexible expansion joints behave similarly to other expansion joints under pressure. Due to their design, expansion joints generate end thrust when subject to internal pressure, as seen in Figure 1.1. This end thrust must be accounted for in pipeline design. The end thrust generated is calculated by multiplying internal pressure (PSI) by the area listed in Table 1.1.
When used in a long and relatively straight pipeline, the pipe-to-soil friction is generally sufficient to balance the force. The use of thrust blocks or other means of anchoring is required when fittings are placed in close proximity to the expansion joint underground. This protects the pipeline from the tendency of the unit to expand when pressurized. In an above-ground installation such as a bridge application, some means must be provided to prevent the expansion of bridge application, some
The successful installation of expansion joints in a pipe system Requires the careful consideration of many variables. The most important issue is to establish the direction in which the movements are acting and in which way the movements should be absorbed. Once this information is known, the solution incorporating the most suitable expansion joint type(s) can be determined. The following pages give some ideas and suggestions for a pipe system design, and how to implement expansion joints in the system in the Best way.
| Size (inch) | Arce (inch2) | Thrust@150 PSI(lb) |
| 2 | 4.43 | 664.5 |
| 3 | 12.3 | 1845 |
| 4 | 18.1 | 2715 |
| 6 | 37.4 | 5610 |
| 8 | 64.3 | 9645 |
| 10 | 96.8 | 14520 |
| 12 | 136.9 | 20535 |
| 14 | 237.8 | 35670 |
| 16 | 237.8 | 35670 |
| 18 | 366.4 | 54960 |
| 20 | 366.4 | 54960 |
| 24 | 522.8 | 78420 |
| 30 | 804.3 | 120645 |
| 36 | 1152.1 | 175815 |
| 42 | 1555.3 | 233295 |
| 48 | 2027 | 304050 |
Table 1.1
