Chemical Engineering Interview Question:

What are some common problems associated with bellow expansion joints?

Submitted by: Administrator

Bellow expansion joints have gained a reputation for being "weak" points in piping. Usually they are used to remove piping stresses from equipment or to allow for minor piping moments. If they are used properly, expansion joints can save equipment and/or equipment welds from stresses generated from piping forces. The two most common complaints about bellows are 1. They tend to build up dirt 2. They are "weak" point in piping (as noted earlier). To overcome these issues, manufacturers can began installing drains in the bellows to allow for the period purging of material. Additionally, bellow manufacturers have placed much emphasis on installation advice and showing their customers how to protect the bellow from unnecessary damage. One such method is the use of tie rods between the end flanges to avoid pressure thrust movements (beyond the bellow's design conditions) which are often the cause of bellow failures
Submitted by: Administrator