Any piping system’s overall stress can be reduced by using an expansion joint. Additionally, the replacement joints are in charge of avoiding the simple crushing of flange gaskets. But choosing between rubber and steel expansion joints as replacement joints is frequently confusing.

A flexible connector, also known as a rubber replacement joint, is created by using fabric and synthetic or natural elastomers. The rubber expansion joints’ internal metallic reinforcements are intended to relieve any stress in the piping systems, which may develop due to mechanical motion and thermal movements.

In addition, the flexible bellows or components that make up the mechanical expansion joints are made of a relatively thin gauge metal (mostly stainless steel). The mechanical and thermal motions anticipated in the provided service have been designed to be absorbed by the metallic expansion joints.

Benefits of Using Metallic Expansion Joints

For most piping systems that are in use nowadays, metallic expansion joints have several benefits. The following are some key details you need to be aware of:

 Temperature: The maximum temperature range for rubber expansion joints with normal construction and materials is typically 230 degrees Fahrenheit. However, most manufacturers today can offer unique designs or materials that withstand temperatures up to about 400 degrees Fahrenheit.

 Pressure: Based on the diameter, rubber expansion joints may support up to 250 psi of pressure with their maximum vacuum rating. The metal joints are also made to withstand pressures of about 1000 psi. In high-pressure situations and applications, metal materials’ overall quality and flexibility frequently represent significant advantages over rubber alternatives. However, it is important to carefully consider how the provided thrust forces interact with the respective spring rates or stiffness of the metallic joints. The pipework or the anchors should be built to support the total combined load.

Metallic expansion joints are often employed more frequently than rubber expansion joints. The application circumstances, which include the pressure and temperature, are mostly to blame for this. According to some industry experts, metallic joints are four times bigger than rubber expansion joints currently in the market. Manufacturers of expansion joints work to create a variety of structural support that can increase the general efficacy of the specified joints to avoid strain or pressure from being applied to the joints.