Untied Universal expansion joint middle spool weight

Posted by: charlot

Untied Universal expansion joint middle spool weight - 02/21/22 11:39 AM

Hello Everyone,

When I use an Untied Universal expansion joint, should I add a support for the middle spool or it's somehow designed to be self supporting?

Thanks
Posted by: NRAM

Re: Untied Universal expansion joint middle spool weight - 02/24/22 12:18 AM

Generally, EJ vendors consider the weight of the middle spool in the design of a universal expansion joint. The weight is often handled with bellows' stiffnesses or transfers to control rods by some lugs. It means providing separate support for this spool is not in the piping designer's scope of work except in a special situation.
Posted by: charlot

Re: Untied Universal expansion joint middle spool weight - 02/28/22 02:25 PM

Thank you NRAM
Posted by: Michael_Fletcher

Re: Untied Universal expansion joint middle spool weight - 03/07/22 12:58 PM

You shouldn't support it, but you should still account for its weight for other aspects of the design.
Posted by: danb

Re: Untied Universal expansion joint middle spool weight - 03/07/22 03:02 PM

It depend on the size. Maybe pantograph link...

It is not often you can use an Untied Universal expansion joint, so you need to be careful.

Best regards,