Expansion Joint Configurations
Axial Expansion Joint
An axial expansion joint absorbs compression and extension along the pipe's own centerline — the most straightforward and most common movement a bellows is asked to handle, and the baseline configuration most other expansion joint types are built on top of.
Representative example — real Uma Bellows expansion joint unit:
How it works
A single bellows element, in single-ply, double-ply, or multi-ply construction, compresses or extends along the pipe axis as the system heats up or cools down. Anchors on either side of the joint control the direction of movement so it's absorbed by the bellows rather than the pipe run itself.
- Absorbs axial (in-line) compression and extension only
- Most economical expansion joint configuration
- Requires properly located pipe anchors on both sides
- Available single-ply through seven-ply, per Uma Bellows' standard range
Related: Expansion Joints · Tied Expansion Joint · High-Cycle Bellows
Request a Quote