The Differences between Metal and Non-metallic Expansion Joints

  Compensation ability: Under the same dimensions conditions, non-metallic expansion joint compensates much more than metal expansion joints, especially for the lateral displacement compensation.

  Compensation resistance:  The expansion joint is like an elastic body that can produce resistance after being shrunk or stretched. The resistance from the metal expansion joint is greater than that from the non-metallic expansion joint. If this resistance is too large, it will damage the surrounding equipment gradually.

  High temperature resistance, corrosion resistance: the material of non-metallic expansion joint not only has good high temperature performance, and also has superior performance of acid and alkali resistance. The yield limit of common carbon structural steel is equal to zero at 600︒C. If the temperature goes higher, the steel surface will be oxidized and peeled.

  Heat preservation and energy saving: the structure of the non-metallic expansion joint has the properties of thermal insulation. But the metal expansion joint does not have that, in order to preserve heat, the outer surface of the metal expansion joint is covered by an insulation layer.

  Maintenance and replacement: non-metallic expansion joints do not need maintenance in normal service life cycle. Non-metallic expansion joints are much more convenient to replace than the metal ones, especially for large size. That is because the metal expansion joints need to be assembled on the ground before lifting to the installation location. This must be done by large lifting equipment. However, the non-metallic expansion joint can be assembled directly on installation location. If replacement required, the fabric components can be easily wound up without removing the metal frame.

  Working media: Unlike metal expansion joint, non-metallic expansion joints are generally suitable for gas. The media for rubber expansion joints can be both gas and liquid. The working temperature of the rubber expansion joint is generally within 100 degree Celsius.