Structural characteristics of rubber expansion joint
Rubber expansion joint is Hesper’s main product, belong to our expansion joint part. It is a Flexible connector widely used in pipeline systems. Its structural characteristics directly determine its performance advantages and application range. Rubber expansion joint is mainly composed of inner rubber layer, reinforcement layer, outer rubber layer and flange or metal frame and other components. The design and material selection of each part are carefully considered to ensure its reliability and durability under complex working conditions.
First of all, the inner rubber layer of the Rubber Joint is in direct contact with the conveying medium, so it needs to have excellent corrosion resistance or wear resistant, and sealing performance. The inner rubber layer is usually made of oil-resistant, acid-resistant, alkali-resistant or high-temperature resistant rubber materials, such as nitrile rubber, chloroprene rubber or EPDM rubber, etc. The specific material depends on the chemical properties of the medium. For example, nitrile rubber is often used when conveying oil media, while EPDM rubber may be used when conveying high-temperature steam. The surface smoothness of the inner rubber layer is also strictly controlled to reduce fluid resistance and prevent medium deposition.
Secondly, the reinforcement layer is the core structure of the rubber expansion joint, which is usually composed of multiple layers of high-strength cord fabric or steel wire braid. The main function of the reinforcement layer is to withstand the internal pressure and external load of the pipeline system while maintaining the flexibility of the joint. The cord fabric is generally made of polyester fiber or aramid fiber, which has the characteristics of high strength and low elongation, can effectively disperse stress and prevent the joint from deforming or rupturing under high pressure. For high pressure or vacuum conditions, steel wire reinforcement layers are also added to further improve the pressure bearing capacity. The number of layers and arrangement of the reinforcement layers are accurately calculated to ensure the displacement compensation ability of the joint in different directions.
The outer rubber layer protects the reinforcement layer and is usually made of weather-resistant or wear-resistant rubber materials, such as chloroprene rubber or EPDM rubber. The outer rubber layer can resist ultraviolet rays, ozone and external mechanical damage, extending the service life of the joint. In some special applications, the outer rubber layer may also be added with flame retardant or antistatic ingredients to meet the safety requirements of specific industries.
The end connection methods of rubber joints are various, the most common of which are flange connection and flange buckle groove connection. Flange connection usually adopts carbon steel, stainless steel or cast iron flange, which is fixed to the pipeline system by bolts. The flange surface is rust-proofed and equipped with sealing gaskets to ensure the tightness of the connection. Flange buckle groove connection is suitable for quick installation occasions, and the metal ring is used to press the rubber end to achieve sealing. In addition, there are some specially designed joints with threaded connection or welding end to meet different installation requirements.
In short, the structural characteristics of rubber expansion joint reflect the perfect combination of functionality and reliability. From the medium adaptability of the inner rubber layer to the mechanical design of the reinforcement layer, from the environmental protection of the outer rubber layer to the diversity of connection methods, every structural detail has been carefully optimized. These characteristics make rubber joints an indispensable key component in modern piping systems, playing an important role in many fields such as petrochemicals, electricity, water supply and drainage, HVAC, etc.
Except standard rubber expansion joints, we also can customize according to your requests(like medium., working pressure and working temperature, etc.), welcome to contact us.