Chances are if you run or operate a plant, you have pipes; and your piping will require metallic expansion joints throughout the pipelines. There are various types of metallic expansion joints for various types of pipe functions.

The most basic type of metallic expansion joint models by HKR is the single type expansion joint untied. This metallic expansion joint isn't for the larger pipes. This model will absorb any of the movements in the section of pipe which it is installed. The single type may or may not be engineered with a shrink ring, depending on the pressure your pipes will have.

An improvement upon this metallic expansion joint is the single type expansion joint-tied model, designed for pipes that will make lateral movements, to withstand the thrust of pipe during use.

HKR also manufactures two types of metallic expansion joints for more advanced and complex pipe systems.

The universal type expansion joint untied has two bellows, connected by an intermediate pipe, to hold through the angular rotations and in pipes that have bigger lateral movements the single type cannot hold.

Slightly better than this, is the universal expansion joint-tied model because its tie-rod assembly is more durable and capable to prevent damage to pipes from the thrusting during operation.

The hinge type expansion joint works, as you might have guessed, like a hold of a hinge, with two hinge plates and a couple pins. This metallic expansion joint must be installed in sets of two or three joints in order to function as intended.

A gimbal type expansion joint is for pipelines that make varied movements; and like the hinge type, needs to be installed in twos and threes to adequately withstand the constant thrusting and moving of the pipes. Two pairs of gimbal arms and pins will protect the metallic expansion joint from being damaged and overexerted.

The pressure balanced type expansion joint is for very large pipes or pipe systems that operate under larger amounts of pressure flowing through the piping. These pipes will need anchors to be installed to prevent the metallic expansions joints to be thrust beyond their capacity. Where an anchor cannot be installed, then a balance type expansion joint will be used instead.

Lastly, the rectangular type expansion joint is designed for pipes that expand with heat from high temperatures and low pressures. These metallic expansion joints will handle the expansion of heat as well as the movement and vibrations of the dust collector, exhaust duct, and the ventilator.