Expansion Joints
Expansion Joint Manufacturer and Supplier
Proco Products is a leading expansion joint manufacturer with an extensive inventory of expansion joints for piping and ducting systems.
Our movement expansion joints are manufactured to have the ability to protect your equipment against a variety of stressors while also being low maintenance and durable for maximum efficiency.
Proco Products manufactures expansion joints for industrial and commercial installations using pumping, piping or ducting which requires expansion or movement joints to deal with thermal expansion, vibration or ground movement.
With a variety of designs in rubber, stainless steel or polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), our high-performance expansion joints ensure safe and reliable operations supporting system integrity, mitigating fatigue and reducing maintenance downtime.
FAQ’s
Where are rubber expansion joints used?
Rubber expansion joints are vital in diverse piping systems to absorb thermal movement, isolate vibration, and dampen noise. Common applications include HVAC systems, plumbing, power generation plants, and various industrial processes. They are also crucial in specialized sectors like marine , wastewater treatment , and pulp & paper plants where they protect equipment and ensure system integrity.
How long do rubber expansion joints last?
The lifespan of rubber expansion joints varies significantly, typically ranging from 5 to 20 years, with an average of 7-10 years usual for many industrial uses. Key factors influencing longevity include operating temperature, pressure, chemical compatibility with the media, frequency and magnitude of movement, installation quality, and environmental conditions such as UV exposure. Regular inspection and proper maintenance are crucial for maximizing service life.
What material is a rubber expansion joint made from?
Rubber expansion joints consist of an inner elastomer tube for media contact, a reinforcement carcass, and an outer protective cover. Common elastomers include EPDM, Neoprene, Nitrile, Butyl, and Viton, chosen for chemical and temperature resistance. The carcass uses fabric plies like Nylon, Polyester, or high-strength Aramid for pressure resistance, sometimes with metal rings for vacuum or high pressure. Flanges are typically steel or integral rubber.
What is an EPDM expansion joint and where is it used?
An EPDM expansion joint uses Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer rubber, valued for its outstanding resistance to ozone, UV radiation, weathering, and heat, making it ideal for outdoor use. It excels in water applications (potable, wastewater, cooling towers) and resists mild chemicals, acids, and alkalis but is not recommended for use with oils and hydrocarbon fuels. Standard temperature limits are typically around 100-130°C.
Can I use a rubber expansion joint in extreme temperature conditions?
Yes, rubber expansion joints can operate in extreme temperatures, subject to selecting the correct elastomer and reinforcement. Temperature capabilities range widely, from around -40°C (-40°F) to over 200°C (392°F) using materials like Viton with Aramid reinforcement. Standard pressure ratings often reach 15-25 bar (approx. 225-362 psi), with higher ratings possible via specialized designs. Note that pressure ratings typically decrease with increasing temperature and larger diameters. Good manufacturers will specify precise limits.
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Rubber Expansion Joints
Proco rubber expansion joints offer inherent flexibility and strength designed to meet the most challenging temperature / pressure requirements. Known for their capability to withstand extreme environments, our rubber expansion joints are commonly found in harsh applications such as water and wastewater, pulp and paper, chemical processing, mining, metals and pumping applications.
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PTFE Expansion Joints
Our PTFE expansion joints have advantageous properties for the chemicals processing industry to protect against corrosive substances. As a non-reactive synthetic material, Polytetrafluoroethylene creates high performing expansion joints that perform within extreme industrial environments.
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Ducting Expansion Joints
Our expansion joints use a combination of rubber and fabric reinforcement to add flexibility to industrial ducting systems / fan connections. Ducting expansion joints are strengthened with vulcanized reinforced fabric to withstand large movements and isolate vibration and noise.
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Braided Pipe Connectors
Our high-quality braided pipe connectors are built of stainless steel designed to control pump vibration, reduce noise, relieve stress and mitigate misalignment. Proco braided pipe connectors are ideal for higher temperature applications and require no control units or tie rods. We manufacture a variety of male and female braided connectors including carbon steel flanges, stainless steel flanges or copper ends.
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Other Rubber Products
Our flanged rubber pipe connectors are made for tough, demanding applications; our durable rubber sleeve type pipe connectors are constructed of nylon reinforced neoprene rubber for use near mechanical equipment piping systems. Our rubber and PTFE low torque gaskets are specifically designed with dual, concentric, convex molded sealing rings which allow easy sealing for both gases and liquids.
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Pipe Penetration Seal
When you need a robust gas or watertight pipe penetration seal, Proco pipe penetration seals are tested to withstand up to 20 psig or 40 feet of head pressure and temperatures up to 250 °F. Our pipe penetration seals create an efficient, effective, and low-cost seal for pipes passing through walls, floors, tanks etc. Simple to fit, slide the pipe pen seal into position and tighten.
