Expansion Joint Configurations
Tied Expansion Joint
A tied expansion joint is an axial bellows fitted with external tie rods running parallel to the pipe, connecting the flanges on either side. The rods carry the pressure thrust that would otherwise be pushed out to the pipe's anchors and supports.
Representative example — real Uma Bellows expansion joint:
How it works
Under internal pressure, a bellows wants to extend — that thrust normally has to be resisted by the pipe anchors. Tie rods intercept that force directly at the joint, so the surrounding structure only has to support the piping's weight, not its pressure thrust.
- Tie rods carry pressure thrust, not the anchors or supports
- Reduces structural loading requirements on surrounding piping
- Rods are sized to the joint's pressure rating and diameter
- Useful where anchor points can't be built to carry full thrust
Related: Axial Expansion Joint · Externally Pressurized Bellows · Expansion Joints
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