What is the purpose of an 'expansion joint' in piping systems?

The purpose of an expansion joint in piping systems is to absorb movement and reduce stress. As temperatures change, pipes expand and contract, which can create significant forces within the system. These forces can lead to misalignment, wear, or even failure if not properly managed.

Expansion joints are specifically designed to accommodate these thermal movements by allowing for flexibility. They can absorb the expansion and contraction of pipes due to temperature fluctuations, as well as vibrations caused by fluid flow or adjacent equipment. By doing so, they help maintain the integrity of the piping system and protect it from damage, ensuring longer service life and reliability.

This function is critical, especially in environments where drastic temperature variations occur or in long piping runs where thermal movement can be particularly pronounced. Utilizing expansion joints properly in a piping system is essential for operational efficiency and maintenance of structural integrity over time.