Fabric Expansion Joint - Flexatherm

Fabric expansion joints are an essential part of many industrial applications because they offer systems that face high temperatures and mechanical stress flexibility, durability, and heat resistance. At Flexatherm, we create and produce premium fabric expansion joints to satisfy the demanding needs of the chemical processing, oil refining, and power generating industries. Because these joints absorb shocks, thermal expansion, and misalignments within pipelines and ducts, they are essential to maintaining system durability, efficiency, and safety.

What Are Fabric Expansion Joints?

Non-metallic expansion joints, or fabric expansion joints, are incredibly flexible connectors that are used in pipe and duct systems to accommodate movement and thermal expansion. Fabric joints are made of several layers of heat- and corrosion-resistant materials, such as elastomers, fiberglass, ceramic textiles, and PTFE (Teflon), as opposed to metallic expansion joints. Because of their resistance to high pressure, temperatures, and chemical exposures, these materials have been chosen.

A fabric expansion joint's principal function is to absorb axial, lateral, and rotational movements while preserving a seal that stops the leakage of liquids, gasses, or other substances. They are extensively utilized in systems, particularly in gas turbines, power plants, and refineries, where significant thermal expansions are anticipated as a result of temperature variations.

Key Benefits of Flexatherm Fabric Expansion Joints

1. High-Temperature Resistance

Our fabric expansion joints are perfect for high-heat applications since they are designed to endure intense temperatures. The insulating layers positioned within the joints are engineered to withstand temperatures as high as 1000°C, contingent upon the specific material and application. This qualifies them for applications where temperature fluctuations may result in expansion and contraction, such as flue gas systems, hot air ducts, and exhaust gas pipes.

2. Vibration Dampening and Noise Reduction

The fabric expansion joints from Flexatherm are also very good at lessening noise and vibrations in pipe systems. These connections serve as absorbers against vibrations produced by machinery or processes, keeping pipes and ducts safe from mechanical stress damage. By doing this, wear and strain on the system is reduced and its lifespan is increased.

3. Flexibility in Design

A vast array of pipe or duct designs can be accommodated by customizing our fabric expansion joints. Our engineers can create the ideal joint to meet your needs, even if you have complicated geometries or limited space. Our ability to adapt any system configuration without sacrificing performance is ensured by our flexibility in size, shape, and material selection.

4. Chemical and Corrosion Resistance

Dealing with corrosive substances and surroundings that can gradually deteriorate materials is a difficulty faced by many businesses. Flexatherm's expansion joints are made to withstand the damaging effects of corrosion and chemicals by using silicone-coated textiles, PTFE, and other cutting-edge materials. For chemical processing facilities, petrochemical refineries, and industrial gas uses, this makes our fabric expansion joints perfect.

5. Cost-Effective and Durable

In comparison to metallic equivalents, fabric expansion joints are a more affordable option. They are simpler to install, lighter, and require less upkeep. Because of their several layers, they are more resilient and less prone to break down or deteriorate over time. Our products' extended lifespan results in reduced operating expenses and fewer downtimes for maintenance or replacement.

How Fabric Expansion Joints Work

Fabric expansion joints function by absorbing system movement brought on by vibrations, thermal expansion, or changes in pressure. The joint expands or compresses to account for movement caused by pipelines or ducts expanding as a result of increased temperatures. Similarly, the joint bends to absorb the mechanical forces during vibrations, shielding the nearby equipment from harm.

A typical fabric expansion joint consists of the following layers:

1. Outer Cover: This layer shields the internal parts from external elements including dampness and UV rays as well as mechanical harm.

   
   

2. Insulation Layer: ensures that the joint can withstand high temperatures without transferring heat to the outside surfaces by offering thermal protection.

   
   

3. Sealing Layer: This layer, which is made of PTFE or elastomers, guarantees a gas-tight seal to stop leaks.

   
   

4. Reinforcement Layer: gives the joint more structural strength, making it more resistant to mechanical stress and internal strain.

   
   
   
   

   Together, these layers guarantee that the joint functions at its best even in the most demanding circumstances.

   
   

Applications of Flexatherm Fabric Expansion Joints

Numerous sectors and applications use the fabric expansion joints made by Flexatherm. Among the important industries are:

1. Power Generation

Fabric expansion joints are necessary in power plants, particularly those that burn fossil fuels, to withstand the high pressures and temperatures seen in air preheaters, exhaust systems, and flue gas ducts. These couplings contribute to reducing the possibility of leaks and preserving system efficiency.

2. Chemical Processing

Chemical facilities frequently work in harsh environments with corrosive materials. Our fabric expansion joints are perfect for use in pipelines and ducts that convey hazardous materials since they are made to withstand the chemical deterioration brought on by acids, alkalis, and other reactive substances.

3. Oil & Gas Industry

Fabric expansion joints are vital for preserving the integrity of exhaust systems and pipes in refineries and natural gas processing facilities. They make sure that variations in temperature and vibrations don't jeopardize the system's functionality or safety.

4. HVAC Systems

In HVAC systems, fabric expansion joints are frequently utilized to accommodate duct movement and thermal expansion. By increasing the HVAC system's overall flexibility and toughness, these connections ensure effective temperature control and airflow without endangering the ducting.

5. Environmental Control Systems

Fabric expansion joints are essential to industries that regulate air pollution because they can withstand the high temperatures and corrosive gases generated during the operation, such incineration plants. These couplings guarantee the safe passage of exhaust gasses without system failure or leaks.

Custom Solutions and Engineering Expertise

Flexatherm is aware of the particular needs of every industrial system. We provide specially designed solutions that are suited to your unique application because of this. Our engineering team collaborates closely with customers to create expansion joints that precisely match requirements for flexibility, chemical resistance, and temperature resistance.

We are able to suggest the ideal blend of materials, elastomers, and sealing technologies for your system thanks to our proficiency in materials science. Flexatherm offers the solution whether you require joints that can endure the harsh circumstances of a refinery or the accuracy of an HVAC system.

Fabric expansion joints offer a crucial degree of flexibility and protection in industrial systems that frequently experience high temperatures, mechanical stress, and vibrations. Modern fabric expansion joints from Flexatherm are made to endure even the most severe circumstances. Our expansion joints offer dependability, longevity, and cost-effectiveness in a variety of applications, including chemical processing and power production.