How to choose flexible accordion joints?
In the first step of choosing flexible accordion connections, you must have good experience in designing piping routes and determining fixed points (anchor). Apart from the general shape, if we pay attention to the fixed points in the piping route, these routes are divided into several categories in terms of thermal contraction and expansion. Separate straight tracks, z-shaped tracks, L tracks
Shape and… are known as these categories. The number of fixed points that are placed in the piping route are determined according to various points, including the amount of resistance to contraction and expansion of the connections, spatial limitations, how the connections are placed, etc. It is interesting to know that equipment such as compressors, pumps, turbines, reactors, heat exchangers, etc. can also be used as ANCHORS. In the following, we will explain more about these connections.
In routes where there is a lot of thrust force, it is better to pay special attention to the choice of flexible accordion joints. This high thrust force can be caused by the change of direction, the presence of elbows, valves, etc. In such cases, fixed points and additional equipment should be used to keep the path stable. Typically, many experts recommend that fixed points be considered in such a way that they only apply axial movements in direct paths to the joints. The reason for this is that in such cases it is more economical to use single or double axial connections.
The way to design an accordion connection in the best possible way
To design double accordion joints, we must consider a fixed middle point. This middle fixed point is responsible for keeping the intermediate pipe between the two blouses fixed. Pipelines must have guides and fixed points in sufficient number. In fact, these are the fixed points and guides that determine the amount and how the joints move.For example, in the piping route, if the design direction is axial movement, the guides and connection points should be placed in such a way that only axial movement is applied to the connections. Usually, the first guide after connection should be placed at a distance of 4 times the diameter of each pipe. The rest of the guides should be about 14 times the nominal diameter of the pipe. You can refer to the table below to determine the maximum distance.