Series FFB Free-Flexing Expansion Joints are manufactured using multi-corrugation metal bellows, and flanged or weld type end connections. 

Series EP Externally Pressurized Expansion Joints are used in straight runs of pipe to accommodate large amounts of thermal expansion. Typical applications would include steam systems, where extreme temperature differentials would cause thermal growth of the piping system. Series EP expansion joints are a packless, maintenance-free joint that incorporates an all stainless steel flexible bellows, a steel enclosure, with external and internal guide ring/sleeve to maintain alignment of the inner pipe. The sleeve isolates the bellows from media, eliminating flow turbulence. External pressure is applied to the bellows via a gap between the internal flange and housing. Movement limitation is accomplished by means of an internal flange, and also guides the bellows along the longitudinal centerline. The external pressure keeps the bellows stable.

Unisource “Uni-Loops” are an ideal option for compensating for thermal pipe growth. Often, thermal pipe growth must be absorbed in piping systems where the substantial anchoring systems that bellows expansion joints would require are not present. Since these “V” shaped flexible hose loops do not impose pressure thrust forces on the anchoring system, anchor loads are very low. The only forces involved are the spring forces required to flex the loops. Uni-Loops are an in-line connector and consist of a 90-degree pipe elbow with a flexible stainless steel or bronze hose leg connecting to each end of the elbow. 45-degee pipe elbows are located at the ends of the flex leg and end fittings are welded to the 45-degree elbows. 

Series CF Controlled Flexing Expansion Joints combine high-corrugation free flexing bellows with mated neck rings, and equalizing or control rings. 

A stainless steel single or multiply bellows designed to accommodate pipe growth due to thermal conditions in engine exhaust piping. Series EFB bellows are also constructed to absorb vibration normally associated with engines and generators. 

Series PG standard spider guides are manufactured to accommodate specific amounts of movement and insulation. A pipe guide assembly consists of an anchored housing and a sliding spider that is attached to the pipe. The spider moves through the housing as the pipe expands and contracts. Guides are carbon steel painted for rust protection. 

Unisource can design and build all types of special metallic expansion joints, such as universal styles, hinged, gimbaled, pressure balanced, rectangular, tied, and shrouded styles. Contact Unisource with your application data.

The information on the brochure below is important basic guidelines to consider when placing expansion joints into a piping system. When bellows expansion joints are being considered to absorb pipe movements, concepts such as pressure thrust force, spring forces, pipe guiding, and anchoring need to be thoroughly analyzed. In addition, pipe movements due to thermal changes or other situations must be accurately calculated. The attached brochure will assist in determining the proper expansion joints and piping components.