Power plant is the classic expansion joint market. Long hot runs, large thermal growth and equipment nozzles that cannot take load — which is why hinged systems and pressure-balanced joints dominate.
Applications and the products that suit them
| Application | Product |
|---|---|
| Main steam and feedwater lines | Hinged / gimbal joint in two- and three-hinge systems |
| Turbine exhaust connections | Pressure-balanced joint — the nozzle allowable governs the design |
| Condenser and heat exchanger connections | Lateral / universal joint tied |
| Boiler flue gas ducts | Axial expansion joint with internal liner |
| Pump and fan connections | Braided corrugated hose or Lateral / universal joint |
| Lube oil and hydraulic control lines | Braided corrugated hose in 316L, small bore |
| Soot blower and lance connections | Braided corrugated hose in 321 |
| Ash and abrasive handling | Interlock hose for erosion resistance |
Specification notes for this sector
- Send the turbine or pump vendor's nozzle allowable with the enquiry — it governs the design
- Guiding is not optional; an unguided joint will squirm
- 321 or Alloy 625 (UNS N06625) on high-temperature service
What to send with an enquiry
Bore, medium, pressure, temperature, movement and both end connections. The reasoning for each is on how to specify an assembly.
Related technical reading
Media compatibility · Temperature derating · Failure modes · Installation guide