In the “normal” axial compression configuration, X-----|||------X, the pressure thrust will develop at the elbows and then be resisted by the thrust anchors (X) and the only load in the pipe line would be the thermal movement times the axial spring rate of the expansion joint (|||). Since the pressure thrust is being eliminated at it’s source, the elbows, the pipe will no longer be in tension but slightly compressive. As a result, the line will need to be guided as though it was a compressive column. See the guiding requirements discussion in our catalog.