CUSTOMER REQUIREMENT

Coal feed lines in thermal power plants require durability against both high temperature and mechanical movements. For these challenging operating conditions, an expansion joint with both axial and lateral movement capacity was needed. According to customer demands, a universal type metal expansion joint equipped with AISI 316L grade stainless bellows and AISI 430 internal flow liners was designed.

SOLUTION – High Performance Universal Expansion Joint

This expansion joint was manufactured by combining AISI 316L (1.4404) grade stainless bellows with a durable center pipe. The expansion joint has the capacity for 200 mm axial extension and 50 mm lateral movement, limited to an annual 20 cycle life. Internal flow liners manufactured from AISI 430 (1.4016) grade steel sheet provide resistance to both heat and wear, increasing the reliability of the internal structure.

The 50 mm thick high temperature resistant special insulation jacket located between stainless bellows and internal flow liners minimizes the effect of heat on bellows and offers long cycle life. Additionally, 6 pieces of M18 tie rods used around ensure equal transfer of extension movement to bellows while reducing lateral movement load on bellows. This design optimizes mechanical stability, increases overall performance of the expansion joint, and extends cycle life.

The universal metal expansion joint maximizes operational efficiency of the coal feed line by performing trouble-free under challenging operating conditions. Durable material selection and innovative engineering approach make this expansion joint a long-lasting and reliable solution.