101 Guide to standard rubber expansion joint installation
Following the correct installation instructions for rubber expansion joints will not only ensure a successful installation, but will also prevent future failures. Therefore, it is very important to make sure that the rubber expansion joint is installed correctly the first time.
What checks to do before installing standard rubber expansion joints?
- Application Criteria
Double check that the rubber expansion joints can handle the expected operating conditions. Ensure that the temperature, pressure, vacuum, movement and elastic material selection of the rubber expansion joint meet the requirements of the system. - Location
In general, the correct location for rubber expansion joints is to install them close to the main anchor point. - The rubber expansion joint
Inspect the interior, exterior and flange faces for any damage or cracks prior to installing the rubber expansion joint. - The pipe’s alignment
The pipe should line up within a maximum of +/- (1/8″). If the pipe offset is greater than 1/8″ and cannot be corrected, a special offset fitting should be designed and applied using a special offset fitting, not a rubber expansion joint. - The pipe’s support
The pipe must be supported by hangers or anchors so that its weight is not carried by the rubber expansion joints. - Flanges
Carefully check that the flange to be mated with the expansion joint flange is clean and undamaged.
Then how to install standard rubber expansion joints step by step?
- Applying lubricant to the rubber expansion joint
The flange of the rubber expansion joint surface can be coated with graphite solution or glycerin to prevent adhesion of the joint to the pipe flange, but no petroleum lubricants should be used. - Insert the rubber expansion joint into position
When pushing the fitting into the groove between the mating flanges, be sure not to roll the leading edge of the fitting out of the flange groove. - Insert the bolts
The bolt should be inserted from the side of the arch to ensure that the bolt does not interfere with the arch during compression. - Tighten the Bolts.
Alternately tighten all bolts in a diagonal pattern around the flange to meet the recommended torque.
Installation Video of standard rubber expansion joint
Video Sourcing: Youtube of Proco Products, Inc.
If you want to learn more about the standard rubber expansion joint installation, please contact us by filling out a form on our website or writing email to sales@jointib.com
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PEW
Hi, I’m the author of this post, and I have been in this field for more than 10 years. If you want to get more info about industrial pipe rubber expansion joints, feel free to ask me any questions.
