Gimbal Expansion Joint

Gimbal Expansion Joints are divided into two types: universal hinged and universal tie-rod. The product consists of a bellows, two sets of mutually perpendicular hinged frames (or universal pressure-bearing tie rods), and pins/connecting components. They can accommodate angular displacement in any plane, and the hinge/tie-rod structure bears the entire internal pressure thrust of the pipeline; this thrust is not transmitted to equipment such as pumps and heat exchangers, nor to fixed supports.

Key Points for Use: Universal hinge-type expansion joints are generally used in pairs; the universal tie-rod double-structure design can simultaneously accommodate a combination of angular and lateral displacement.

Product Structure

Stainless steel bellows: 304 / 316L / 321; special materials such as duplex steel and Hastelloy are available upon request

Universal hinge frame + pin (universal hinge type) / universal pressure-bearing tie rod assembly (universal tie rod type)

End connections: pipe fittings or flanges; welded or flanged connections

Shipping stop screws (provided as factory protection; to be removed after installation)

Product Advantages

1. Two sets of orthogonal hinges can accommodate angular deflection in any direction, unrestricted by a single plane (compared to unidirectional hinges)

2. The hinge/tie rod bears the entire internal pressure thrust, protecting downstream equipment and reducing the load on fixed supports

3. Vibration-resistant, high rigidity, and excellent stability under high-temperature, large-diameter operating conditions

4. The universal tie rod version can simultaneously accommodate lateral and multi-directional angular displacement, accommodating complex pipeline movements

Applicable Operating Conditions

Spatial piping systems, L-shaped/Z-shaped complex piping routes, and scenarios involving multi-plane angular displacement;

Recommended for: power plant flue ducts, boiler thermal pipelines, high-temperature petrochemical process pipelines, and large-scale HVAC networks

Not suitable for: straight pipe sections that require only absorption of significant axial expansion (single-axis type is preferred)

Technical Specifications

Selection & Installation Guidelines

1. Universal hinge types are typically installed in pairs; a single unit can only accommodate angular deflection;

2. The hinge pins and universal tie rods are load-bearing components; cutting, removal, or striking them is strictly prohibited;

3. After installation, remove the shipping stop bolts; the unit must not be put into operation with the stop devices in place;

4. When arranging pipeline supports, ensure sufficient space is reserved to allow the bellows to deflect freely and to avoid the application of additional external forces.

Technical Support and Customization Service Process

We provide full-lifecycle technical support for our expansion joint product series, encompassing pre-sales selection, tender clarification, custom engineering design, inspection coordination, and post-shipment installation guidance. Upon order confirmation, we supply calculations based on applicable standards, finite element analysis (FEA), fabrication drawings, and 3D models (in IGES/SAT formats). We can also prepare Welding Procedure Specifications (WPS), Procedure Qualification Records (PQR), and Inspection and Test Plans (ITP) to facilitate third-party witness inspections.

Customization Workflow: Inquiry Collection → Technical Evaluation and Quotation → Review of Drawings and Calculations (post-order confirmation) → Production and Inspection → Documentation Handover and Shipment → After-sales Technical Support.

Note: Project-specific drawings and formal calculation reports are provided only after an order is confirmed; during the tender estimation phase, only standard data sheets and general schematic drawings are supplied.