Flexcomp Flexpress Bellowsflex Pumpflex BellowsXhaust Guideline

Traditions Will
Never Mean Limits.
We understand that no customer’s requirements are exactly
the same. That our audience is targeted to
engineers/designers and construction contractors whose
responsibilities are to oversee costs and quality in the
physical realm of installation of piping systems to existing
and newly constructed buildings.

That’s why Flex-Hose Co. pays so much attention to the

details of your experience. Our employees will greet you in
such a way that says we truly care and appreciate the 16 18 24 26 28 30
opportunity to meet your performance expectation. Flex-

expansion
Hose Co. personnel have the technical training and ability
to provide solutions to the most demanding application. Form and Function.
Our support also extends through specific job analysis
services which recommends placement of product location To put both form and function together requires more than just providing
in a piping system, perfectly integrating them into the quality products. Expansion joint’s reliability depend on correct sizing,
overall theme of your project, saving you both time and guiding and proper installation.
money. This is the result of staying true to what is That’s why we just don’t provide expansion joints! It’s perfect for those who

joints
essentially right. wish to aim low and provide just product. But at Flex-Hose Co. we
understand the criticalness of doing it right the first time. We look at your
piping expansion system with the basic needs of handling thermal growth
Anything Worth Doing with reliability and emphasis on a no nonsense approach.
is Worth Doing Right. That is why thermal pipe expansion is in our blood. We provide more than
simply the product. We will assist you in calculating thermal pipe growth,
It’s not very hard to understand that people are influenced
anchor location, product selection, and placement recommendation in your
by innovation, long-term reliability, ease of installation,
piping system.
and extreme cost savings. It’s a no-brainer. This essence is
built into the very fabric of our business and products since metal bellows So whether your application requires custom or standard expansion joints, we
1968. will put form and function together!
Flex-Hose Co. expansion joints are engineered and
manufactured for a broad range of requirements. They have
been used in some of the most demanding applications
worldwide. They are capable of isolating critical mechanical
equipment from a piping or duct work system, thermal
growth, dampen vibration, and reduce noise. Our renowned
products are backed by the best warranties in the business
that other manufacturers find easier to talk about than to
duplicate.

Our expansion joint products have also been inspected

and tested by the Technical Standards & Safety
Authority of Canada, and hold a CSA Standard B51
Certificate to meet the high quality standards of
the Canadian market.

So enjoy years of service with our flexible piping

connections. Flex-Hose Co. products give you that choice.
Don’t compromise.

Phil Argersinger, President/Owner

1.877.METAL EJ • www.flexhose.com
 Product Reference Guide 1.877.METAL EJ • www.flexhose.com

Flexcomp™ Flexpress™ Bellowsflex™ Pumpflex™ BellowsXhaust™ Guideline™

Custom Designed
Expansion Externally Metal Bellows Bellows Pump Exhaust Type Pipe/Tube
Contents: Expansion Joints
Compensators Pressurized Expansion Joints Connectors/ Expansion Joints Alignment Guides
Custom Designed Guided Expansion Joints
GUIDELINE pipe alignment guides
Thermal Movement..............6 Expansion Joints FLEXCOMP expansion compensator’s Expansion Joints BELLOWSFLEX metal bellows BELLOWSXHAUST expansion joints
PUMPFLEX bellows pump (see page 28) are designed to
type expansion joints (see page (see page 26) are designed to
Thermal Growth Chart..........7 (see page 14) compact design maintain the longitudinal position
Flex-Hose Co.’s FLEXPRESS connector (see page 24) features absorb pipe expansion, reduce
CUSTOM DESIGNED expansion joints 22) are designed for a wide
saves valuable space. It is a perfect of the pipe’s centerlines without
High Corrugation vs. (see page 30) can solve difficult externally pressurized guided a 304 series stainless steel bellows noise, and dampen vibration.
way to absorb up to 2” of axial range of service conditions. causing axial restraint. Proper pipe
Low Corrugation ...............8 performance problems which are construction. Pumpflex has a short
expansion joint (see page 16) They are ideal for low pressure
The standard bellows guiding is vital for safe operation
not adaptable to standard designs. movement resulting from thermal
Design Basics .....................9 provides a reliable means of face-to-face dimension for compact (50 psi) and high temperature of piping systems incorporating the
Field experience since 1968 has growth in a domestic hot water, element is manufactured with 321
absorbing high axial motions up installations. It is ideal in (1200°F) applications. The use of expansion joints or
Accessories.........................9 provided Flex-Hose Co. personnel stainless steel. Other stainless steel
heating hot water, and chilled assembly weights have been mechanical hard pipe loops when
with the necessary expertise to to 16”. Flexpress offers a totally applications for vibration control
Movement Capabilities.......10 water piping system. or heat and corrosion resistant
incorporate design materials reduced to permit use in thin wall guiding pipe axial is essential. The
enclosed, externally pressurized and noise reduction as well as
improving your overall performance Flexcomp’s externally pressurized, alloys are available. Standard flue duct systems. Most common use of traditional pipe supports
Design Considerations........11 strain relief, misalignment, and less
stainless steel bellows that is
and reliability. Flex-Hose Co. rugged construction fully encases pressure ratings up to 300 PSI. applications are exhaust (rollers, clevis hangers and U-bolts)
Glossary of Terms ..............12 expansion joints are engineered protected from external damage than .5” movement of thermal do not assure the pipe is guided
the stainless steel bellows with an Available with flanged or beveled connections on diesel, gasoline or
and manufactured for a broad by an external cover. The rugged growth. Pumpflex features tie rod axially. Guideline assures safety of
Custom Joints...................14 weld end fittings. Bellowsflex can gas turbine engine installations,
range of requirements. They have external cover, assuring safety
construction of the external cover restraints to prevent elongation, your expansion joints. Sizing is
Flexcomp..........................16 been used in some of the most also be supplied with accessories and ducting conveying corrosive
and reliability. Standard pressure determined by the pipe size, axial
is also designed for the working and compression sleeves to prevent gases. To simplify selection,
demanding applications worldwide. ratings up to 200 psi. such as tie rods, flow liners, and movement and the amount of pipe
Flexpress ..........................18 over compression.
They are capable of isolating pressure. The Flexpress carbon standard designs have been
Flexcomps are available standard protective external covers/shrouds. insulation to be used. Copper tube
Bellowsflex .......................24 critical mechanical equipment from steel pipe integral liner is designed Standard pressure ratings of 225 developed with a 321 stainless guides are supplied with dielectric
a piping or duct work system, with female copper tube ends and Sizes PSI. Available with 150 lb. flat steel bellows element.
Pumpflex..........................26 to prevent bellows impingement spacers to prevent galvanic
thermal growth, dampen vibration, steel male NPT ends. 2” to 60” I.D. BellowsXhaust are available with
or fatigue due to flow induced face flanges. Additional alloys corrosion. The two piece inside
and reduce noise. Let us assist you
Bellows Xhaust .................28 flanged ends, weld ends and spider and two piece guiding sleeve
on your next custom expansion vibration. Standard pressure ratings and styles available.
Standard Sizes of the Guideline provide easy bolt
Guideline..........................30 joint. We look forward to meeting Please consult factory. optional vanstone flanges with
3
⁄ ” to 4” I.D.
4 up to 300 PSI are available with
on installation.
your performance expectations. axial travel up to 3.5 inches.
flanged ends or beveled weld ends. Standard Sizes
Sizes Standard Sizes Standard Sizes
2” to 24” I.D.
2” to 60” I.D. Standard Sizes 4” to 48” I.D.
1
⁄2 ” to 24” I.D.
2” to 24” I.D.

4 See page 14 See page 16 See page 18 See page 24 See page 26 See page 28 See page 30
 Bellows Technology 1.877.METAL EJ • www.flexhose.com

Pipe Guide
Thermal Movement Expansion Joint Main Anchor
Thermal Expansion of Metal Pipe
All materials expand and contract due
to temperature changes. In a piping or Linear Thermal Expansion, in/100 ft.
ducting system, these thermal changes
Saturated Steam Temperature Carbon Type 304 Calculating Pipe Growth
can produce stress on the system at Pressure, psig °F Steel Copper Stainless Steel
fixed points such as vessels and Application:
-30 -0.19 -0.32 -0.30
rotating equipment as well as the Heating Hot Water
-20 -0.12 -0.21 -0.20
piping or duct work system itself.
-10 -0.06 -0.11 -0.10 Example:
0 0 0 0 A 2” copper pipe line is 134 feet long.
Thermal changes are produced Maximum temperature the line will
by the following: 10 0.08 0.12 0.11 encounter is 200°F. Lowest temperature
20 0.15 0.24 0.22 is 40°F.
• The temperature of the system
when installed is different from -14.6 32 0.24 0.37 0.36 Calculation:
operating temperature. -14.6 40 0.30 0.45 0.45 From chart – the expansion of copper pipe at:
For example: chilled water, -14.5 50 0.38 0.57 0.56 200°F 2.30”per 100 ft. pipe
100°F when installed, -14.4 60 0.46 0.68 0.67 40°F .45” per 100 ft. pipe
Axial compression: Heat in a piping Axial extension: Cold in a piping system Difference 1.85”per 100 ft. pipe
operates at 40°F system causes the expansion joint to causes the expansion joint to extend -14.3 70 0.53 0.79 0.78
134/100 x 1.85 = 2.48” total length change
• The temperature cycle during compress axially when piping system is axially when piping system is properly -14.2 80 0.61 0.90 0.90

Vacuum
operation properly anchored. anchored.
-14.0 90 0.68 1.02 1.01
• The system is exposed to ambient Application:
Note: 80/20 Rule: 80% motion compression/20% extension. -13.7 100 0.76 1.13 1.12 110# Steam
temperature changes Example: Expansion joints rated for 3” total axial travel =
-13.0 120 0.91 1.37 1.35
2.40 axial compression/.60 axial extension Example:
-11.8 140 1.06 1.59 1.57 A 6” steel pipe line is 152 feet long.
-10.0 160 1.22 1.80 1.79 Maximum temperature the line will
-7.2 180 1.37 2.05 2.02 encounter is 340°F.
Lowest ambient temperature is -20°F.
Compensating for Thermal Movement Why Expansion Joints? -3.2 200 1.52 2.30 2.24
0 212 1.62 2.38 2.43 Calculation:
The basic methods of compensating for thermal movement in a piping system are: • Flex-Hose can assist with product
From chart – the expansion of steel pipe at:
selection, layout & design 2.5 220 1.69 2.52 2.48
340°F 2.70”per 100 ft. pipe
• Design a flexible piping system which • Design expansion devices, expansion joints • Inline, compact design saves valuable 10.3 240 1.85 2.76 2.71 -20°F .12” per 100 ft. pipe
utilizes changes of direction to absorb or flexible loop technology space reducing welding & other
20.7 260 2.02 2.99 2.94 Total 2.82”per 100 ft. pipe
movement For example: “Z” bends, labor costs
34.6 280 2.18 3.22 3.17 152/100 x 2.82 = 4.29” total length change
“L” bends and mechanical pipe loops • Ability to handle large amounts of
axial expansion with one device 52.3 300 2.35 3.46 3.40
“L” Bend vs. multiple devices
75.0 320 2.53 3.70 3.64 Thermal Expansion
Pipe bends and loops: 103.3 340 2.70 3.94 3.88 and Contraction
• Proper design requires accurate 138.3 360 2.88 4.18 4.11
calculations for contraction, 181.1 380 3.05 4.42 4.35 Temperature Thermal
expansion & anchor loads Range Expansion
232.6 400 3.23 4.87 4.59 Application (°F) (per 100 ft.)
• Requires minimum lengths of offsets
Anchor 666.1 500 4.15 5.91 5.80 Chilled Water 40° - 100° .46”
• Pipe guides are essential
“Z” Bend 1528 600 5.13 7.18 7.03 Condenser Water 40° - 100° .46”
• May require more piping & labor costs
Pipe Loop • May add to heat/friction lost & 3079 700 6.16 8.47 8.29 Domestic Hot Water 40° - 140° 1.14”
operating cost 800 7.23 9.79 9.59 (Copper Pipe)
• Require large space to install & may 900 8.34 11.16 10.91 Hot Water 40° - 200° 1.22”
Pipe Guide
need multiple locations. 1000 9.42 12.54 12.27 Steam 100 psig 40° - 338° 2.40”

6 7
 Bellows Technology 1.877.METAL EJ • www.flexhose.com

The evolution of bellows technology Bellows Design Basics

Flex-Hose Co. metal expansion joints
Flex-Hose Low Corrugation vs. High Corrugation
State-of-the-Art are designed for a wide range of Limit Rod

Technology - Pitch
service conditions. They consist of a
Low Corrugation .63”
flexible bellows element, appropriate end
Bellows
Flex-Hose Co. state-of-the-art low fittings to match adjoining pipe fittings
.018”
corrugation technology (Figure A) Height .6”
and schedule. The bellows is a flexible
Flow Liner
reduces the corrugation height and pitch. seal design to contain the media, absorb
This limits the pressure stresses on the thermal movement, and pressures of
corrugations cross section. The low End Fitting
the system.
profile design incorporates the correct SPECIFICATIONS:
6.0”
Pipe SIze: 6.0”
number of convolutions to acheive the External
Corrugation Depth: .6” The bellows are manufactured from Cover/Shroud
desired movement of the bellows. The Corrugation Pitch: .63”
Material Thickness: .018” thin-walled tubing to form a corrugated
smaller outer diameter also saves
Pressure Rating: 150 psi
valuable space. Over 60 percent A margin of approx.
cylinder. The corrugations are commonly
4 to 1 for burst pressure referred to as convolutions and add the
smaller effective area of the bellows
substantially reduces the size of the By reducing the corrugation height structure necessary for the bellows material
Accessories
FEATURES:
and pitch, we limit the pressure • No ring reinforcement required
anchors, the structure to which the to contain system pressure.
stresses on the corrugation cross-
pipe guides are attached, and lowering section. The low profile design
• Lower rod and hinge hardware costs Covers
incorporates the correct number of • Over 60% smaller effective area reduces anchoring costs
the overall cost while simplifying Expansion joints require careful handling subject to external axial movement, they
convolutions to achieve the desired • Extension allowance normally eliminates precompression at The bellows design incorporates the
installation. movement of the bellows. installation site and must be protected from any impact, will only restrain the pressure thrust in the
• Lighter weights reduce shipping costs and thickness and convolution geometry that
simplify installation weld spatter, etc. Before insulating an event of an anchor failure. During normal
meets the capacity of the adjoining pipe to
expansion joint, care must be taken that operation the anchor or adjacent
Figure A. - Low Corrugation contain system pressure at the specified
State-of-the art low corrugation expansion joint would have an effective area of 34.5 in2. foreign material is not trapped in the equipment will be subjected to the
Old Technology - Pressure thrust force = (150 psig)(34.5 in2.) = 5176 lbs. design temperature.
corrugations impeding its movements. pressure thrust forces.
High Corrugation
It is suitable to install a metal cover over
High corrugation (Figure B) is Flexibility of the bellows is acheived
old technology. It must use
Reinforcing Equalizing Ring the flanges and then wrap the insulation Limit Rods
Rings Pitch
through the convolution profile and
reinforcing rings to acheive higher 2.3”
around it. Limit Rods are devices with the primary
SPECIFICATIONS: End Equalizing pitch as multiple convolutions are
working pressure over 50 psi. The Pipe SIze: 6.0”
Ring function of restricting the bellows movement
required to provide the expected
Corrugation Depth: 2.5”
extreme height and pitch of the
Corrugation Pitch: 2.3” 2.5”
Flow Liners range. The limit rods are designed to prevent
.125” expansion and contraction of the
convolutions cause the expansion Material Thickness: .125” Flow liners are installed in the inlet bore of bellows over-extension or over-compression
joint to have very little hoop strength, Pressure Rating: 50 psi* piping system.
the expansion joint to protect the bellows while restraining the full pressure thrust in
requiring external structure such as *To go to higher
from erosion damage due to abrasive media the event of a main anchor failure.
root rings or reinforcing rings for pressures, reinforcing
rings must be used. 6.0” or resonant vibration caused by turbulent
pressures greater than 50 spi. The net effect is the
rings form the structure flow or excessive velocities. Control Rods
and the bellows form
The increased effective area of the the seal.
Control Rods are devices attached to the
bellows significantly increases the over Tie Rods expansion joint with the primary function
all cost of a project by creating the Tie Rods are devices with the primary of distributing movement between the two
need for larger anchors and structure bellows of a universal joint. Control rods
function to restrain the bellows pressure
to attach the pipe guides to.
Figure B. - High Corrugation thrust. It should be pointed out that when are not designed to restrain bellows
High corrugation expansion joint would have an effective area of 56.7 in2. tie rods are furnished on expansion joints pressure thrust.
Pressure thrust force = (150 psig)(56.7 in2.) = 8505 lbs.

8 9
 Bellows Technology 1.877.METAL EJ • www.flexhose.com

Expansion Joint Movement Capabilities Expansion Joint Design Considerations

We have noted how placing a flexible metal bellows at selected locations in a piping system can accommodate its thermal growth. There are
Installation
some side effects which occur when a pipe is cut in two and a bellows is inserted to take up the movement of the pipe. The side effects are
Misalignment
pressure thrust or spring rate. It is essential for proper anchor designs to determine which one will impact your design.
Misalignment of the expansion joint
on installation reduces the total
movement capacity of an expansion
Spring Rate Pressure Thrust
joint. Misalignment of the piping
In very low pressure application the more The bellow’s very nature of being flexible
system should be corrected prior to
installation of the expansion joint. significant force may be the spring rate (to absorb movement) will extend
AXIAL EXTENSION LATERAL OFFSET If the misalignment can not be (force to compress the bellows) which is (straighten out) due to the line pressure
Extension of the bellows length Motion which is perpendicular to the corrected, please contact expressed in pounds per inch of motion. (Figure B). This pressure thrust must then
due to pipe contraction when piping plane of the pipe with the expansion
Flex-Hose Co. for technical support. Thus, as the pipe grows due to increasing be absorbed by some means or the line
system is anchored properly. joint fittings remaining parallel.
temperature, the bellows will resist pressure will cause the bellows to over
compression by the force noted in the
extend and tear itself apart. This force
Concurrent Movements spring rate (Figure A).
may be accommodated by anchoring the
Expansion joint movement capacity
pipe or by using an expanion joint which
published in the catalog is maximum
A comparison of pressure and force data
capacity for non-current movement. incorporates tie rods or limit rods.
to spring rate will show that it does not Figure B. Pressure Thrust
Axial, lateral, and angular movements For example, see page 8.
require very much line pressure for
can occur simultaneously, i.e. on reactor
vessels or piping systems utilizing pressure thrust to be the dominant factor
AXIAL COMPRESSION expansion joints at building/seismic of the two in expansion joint
Compression of the bellows length ANGULAR ROTATION Squirm
interfaces. If your application involves applications.
due to pipe expansion when Bending about the longitudinal centerline Convolutions can be added to increase more stable under pressure. A bellows is a
concurrent motions it is essential that
piping system is anchored properly. of the expansion joint.
the movement capacity of the 1” movement without sacrificing cycle life, a flexible seal. This convoluted part of
expansion joint be determined. The sum but there is a limit to this process which the expansion joint is designed to flex
of these values may not exceed 100%. is reached when the bellows, under when thermal movement in the piping
internal pressure, exhibits a condition system occurs. Therefore, by determining
WARNING For example:
known as squirm (bellows instability). the thermal movements that will occur in
TORSION: Twisting about the Expansion Joint design parameters
longitudinal axis of a metal (Figure C). the piping system, expansion joints may
Non-concurrent
expansion joint will reduce bellows be specified, manufactured, and installed
Axial 1.5” 1”
life or cause expansion joint failure Externally pressurized bellows are not in the system to accommodate these
Lateral .50”
and should be avoided. Expansion Angular 10° subject to this condition, as they become movements.
joints should not be located at any
point in a piping system that would Concurrent
TORSION
impose torque to the expansion joint Axial .75” = 50%
Bending about the longitudinal
device. centerline of the expansion joint Lateral .125” = 25%
Angular 2.5° = 25%
TOTAL = 100% Figure C. Squirm/Bellows Instability
Figure A.

10 11
 Expansion Joint Terminology 1.877.METAL EJ • www.flexhose.com

Expansion Joint Glossary of Terms

Angular Rotation Convolution or External Cover/Shroud Lateral Offset Pipe Alignment Guide pressure will cause the bellows to over

Bending about the longitudinal centerline Corrugation Expansion joints require careful handling Motion which is perpendicular to the A pipe alignment guide is a form of sleeve extend and tear itself apart.
The smallest flexible unit of a bellows, with and must be protected from any impact, plane of the pipe with the expansion joint fastened to some rigid part of the
of the expansion joint.
total movement of a bellows being weld spatter, etc. Before insulating an Spring Rate
fittings remaining parallel. installation which permits the pipeline to
Axial Extension proportional to the number of convolutions. expansion joint, care must be taken that In very low pressure application the more
move freely in only one direction, i.e.
foreign material is not trapped in the
Extension of the bellows length due to pipe Limit Rod along the axis of the pipe. Pipe alignment significant force may be the spring rate
Cycle corrugations. It is suitable to install a
contraction when piping system is anchored Devices with the primary function of guides are designed primarily for use in which is expressed in pounds per inch of
A cycle is one complete movement from metal cover over the flanges and then
properly. restricting the bellows movement range. The applications involving axial movement only. motion. Thus, as the pipe grows due to
initial position to operating position and wrap the insulation around it.
limit rods are designed to prevent bellows increasing temperature, the bellows will
back. over-extension or over-compression while
Axial Compression Flow Liner Pipe Support resist compression by the force noted in
restraining the full pressure thrust in the
Compression of the bellows length due to Installed in the inlet bore of the A pipe support is any device which the spring rate.
Cycle Life event of a main anchor failure.
pipe expansion when piping system is expansion joint to protect the bellows permits free movement of the piping
Also known as fatugie life expectancy, is
anchored properly. from erosion damage due to abrasive and carries the total weight of in line Squirm
affected by various factors including (but Main Anchor
media or resonant vibration due to Strut instability caused by internal
equipment such as valves, meters,
mot limited to): operating pressure, A main anchor is one installed at any of
turbulent flow or excessive velocities.
Bellows expansion joints, and the weight of the pressure on the bellows.
operating temperature, bellows material, the following locations in a pipe system
The flexible element of an expansion joint contained fluid. Pipe supports cannot be
and bellows design/profile. Change to any containing one or more bellows:
consisting of one or more convolutions. Intermediate Anchor Thermal Movement
substituted for pipe alignment guides.
of these factors will change cycle life. 1) At a change in direction of flow
Am intermediate anchor is one which Expansion and contraction due to
Pipe rings, U-bolts, roller supports, and
2) Between two bellows units of different temperature changes. In a piping or ducting
divides a pipeline into individual expanding
Bellows Expansion Joint Directional Anchor spring hangers are some examples of system, these thermal changes can produce
size installed in the same straight run
pipe sections containing multiple expansion
Any device containing one or more bellows A dierctional anchor, or sliding anchor, is conventional pipe supports. stress on the system at fixed points such as
3) At the entrance of a side branch onto
devices of the same pipe size. Such an vessels and rotaing equipment as well as
used to absorb directional changes, such as one which is designed to absorb loads in the main line the piping or duct work system itself.
anchor must be designed to withstand the Planar Guide
those caused by thermal expansion or one direction while permitting motion in 4) Where a shut-off or pressure-reducing
forces and moments imposed upon it by A directional pipe planar guide is a pipe
contraction of a pipeline, duct or vessel. another. It may be either a main or
each of the pipe sections to which it is
valve is installed in a pipe run Tie Rod
intermediate anchor, depending upon the alignment guide modified to permit limited
between two bellows units Devices with the primary function to
attached. In the case of a pipe section
Concurrent Movement application considered. When designing a movement and/or bending of the pipe in
restrain the bellows pressure thrust.
5) At a capped end of pipe
Simultaneous movement axially, laterally containing one or more bellows units, one plane. It is used only in applications
directional anchor, an effort should be A main anchor must be designed to
and angularly. these forces will consist of forces and/or
made to minimize the friction between its involving lateral deflection or angular Torsion
withstand the forces and moments imposed
moments required to deflect the bellows rotation resulting from 2- or 3-hinge piping Twisting about the longitudinal axis of a
moving or sliding parts, since this will
Control Rod unit plus the frictional forces due to the
upon it by each of the pipe sections to
configurations. metal expansion joint when it is located at
Devices attached to the expansion joint reduce the loading on the pipe and which it is attached. In the case of a pipe
pipe moving over its guides. The pressure any point in a piping system that would
with the primary function of distributing equipment, and will ensure proper function section containing an unrestrained bellows,
thrust is absorbed by the other anchors or impose torque as a result of thermal change
movement between the two bellows of a of the anchor. Pressure Thrust
these will consist of the pressure thrust, or building seismic joints imposing torque.
devices on the bellows unit such as limit Extension of the bellows due to line
universal joint.
the force required to deflect the bellows
rods, tie rods, hinged restraints, etc. pressure. This pressure thrust must then
unit, and the frictional force due to the
be absorbed by some means or the line
pipe moving over its guides.

12 13
 Custom Expansion Joints 1.877.METAL EJ • www.flexhose.com

Let us assist you on your next

custom metal expansion joint!
Custom Designed
Metal Expansion Joints
Available
New with Flow
installation Liner and
Protective
or Cover/Shroud
replacements

Custom Designed Joint:

30”nominal ID x 36”FxF, expansion joint with stainless steel
liner. Custom elliptical steel flanges, 353⁄4” x 50 FxF” with control
rods. Design 150 psi @ 650°F

Available
for 150, 300
and 600 psi Take control of your custom project
Service
with our cutting-edge XJS Design Software!
Available • SAVES DESIGN TIME! IT’S
sizes FREE!
• Calculates pipe expansion
2” to 60” • Input design criteria
CSA standard B-51 • Computes engineering calculations
certified. Inspected • Calculates anchor loads
and tested by the • Produces pipe guide layout
Technical Standards
and Safety Authority • Verifies design to EJMA
of Canada. (Expansion Joint Manufacturer’s Assn) Custom Designed Joint:
16”x131⁄4”FxF, 321 stainless steel bellows and flow liner, 150#
• Creates detailed submittal drawings flanges with control rods and exterior shroud. Design 150 psi
@ 600°F for 2” axial compression.
Available at www.flexhose.com
We’ll custom build metal expansion joints to fit
your application or refurbish your current ones!
Flex-Hose Co.’s custom metal expansion joints can solve difficult performance
problems which are not adaptable to standard designs. Field experience since SAVE COS
T
1968 has provided Flex-Hose Co., Inc. personnel with the necessary expertise to Let us !
refurb
custom eish your
improve your overall performance and reliability.
xpan
Flex-Hose Co.’s metal expansion joints are engineered and manufactured to
accommodate a broad range of service conditions. They have been used in some of
joints. sion
the most demanding applications worldwide and are capable of isolating critical
mechanical equipment from piping or duct work systems, thermal growth, vibration
and noise reduction. Custom Designed Joint:
20” Universal tied 30”x14”, 316 stainless steel bellows with custom 36 1⁄2” O.D.
Let us assist you on your next custom metal expansion joint application. expansion joint carbon steel flanges with groove for carbon sealing ring.
being rebuilt with Design 1 psi @ 200°F for 21⁄2” of axial compression.
We look forward to meeting your performance expectations. radiograph bellows.

14 15
 Flexcomp Expansion Compensators 1.877.METAL EJ • www.flexhose.com

Large r 13⁄4 1
⁄4 HP/STL-MxM Steel Piping Systems
ry fo
Invento iate
up to 1.75” axial compression up to .25” axial extension
Max Pressure Movement Capability
Immed t! I.D. Length (PSI) Compression Extension Weight
n
Shipme (In.) (In.) Working Test (In.) (In.) (Lbs.)

Flexcomp
.75 12.125 200 300 1.75 .25 5.50
™ 1.00 12.125 200 300 1.75 .25 7.00

1.25 14.125 200 300 1.75 .25 10.20

1.50 14.125 200 300 1.75 .25 12.30

2.00 14.125 200 300 1.75 .25 13.20

2.50 15.500 200 300 1.75 .25 19.60

FLEXCOMP expansion compensators compact 3.00 15.187 200 300 1.75 .25 24.40
design saves valuable space. It is a perfect
way to absorb up to 2” of axial movement 4.00 15.187 200 300 1.75 .25 27.50
resulting from thermal growth in a domestic
hot water, heating hot water and chilled
water piping system. HP/CPR-FSxFS Copper Piping Systems
Max Pressure Movement Capability
Flexcomp’s externally pressurized, rugged I.D. Length (PSI) Compression Extension Weight
construction fully encases the stainless (In.) (In.) Working Test (In.) (In.) (Lbs.)
steel bellows with an external cover,
.75 12.500 200 300 1.75 .25 2.20
assuring safety and reliability. The integral
liner is designed to prevent bellows 1.00 12.500 200 300 1.75 .25 2.40
impingement or fatigue due to flow reduced 1.25 13.812 200 300 1.75 .25 3.10
vibration.
1.50 13.812 200 300 1.75 .25 3.30

Standard working pressure ratings up to 200 HP/STL-MxM 2.00 13.812 200 300 1.75 .25 5.50
psi. Maximum system test pressure 300 psi. NOTE: Also available with flanges (HP/STL-FxF).
2.50 14.435 200 300 1.75 .25 7.50
Flexcomps are available standard with
female copper tube ends and steel male 3.00 14.435 200 300 1.75 .25 10.00
NPT ends.

Standard Sizes
NOTE: Proper guiding and
3
⁄ ” to 4” I.D.
4 anchoring is essential to an
installation of Flexcomp
Pipe Guide
expansion compensators to
prevent buckling or squirming
of the pipeline.

For proper guide spacing,

see PIPE GUIDE SPACING
chart on page 29.
Flexcomp
expansion
Main Anchor compensator
LACEM
REP
HP/CPR-FSxFS
EN
CT T
W
U
X- H O
FLE
D
O

A
RR
PR

AN
SE
TY

CSA standard B-51

certified. Inspected
EXC

and tested by the

W

Technical Standards AR Typical Flexcomp Installation

RANT
EE

Y
S

and Safety Authority

D
D

S R
of Canada. IN
DA
DU
S T R Y S TA N

16 17
 Flexpress™ Externally Pressurized Guided Expansion Joints 1.877.METAL EJ • www.flexhose.com

Flexpress FPD-Dual

Flexpress
Flexpress FPS-Single
Length
™ For up to 16”
of movement
Flex-Hose Co.’s FLEXPRESS externally pressurized
guided dual expansion joint provides a reliable means
of absorbing high axial motions up to 16”. Flexpress
dual expansion joint incorporates an intermediate
anchor base to simplify installations and reduce labor
16
up to 16” axial compression
4
up to 4” axial extension

Carbon Steel
cost. Flexpress offers a totally enclosed, externally
Carbon Steel
Internal Guide Ring pressurized stainless steel bellows that is protected
External Guide Ring
300 Stainless
For up to 8” of movement 8 Steel Bellows 11⁄2 from external damage by an external cover. The rugged
construction of the external cover is also designed for
Flex-Hose Co.’s FLEXPRESS externally pressurized guided up to 8” axial compression up to 1.50” axial extension the working pressure. The Flexpress carbon steel pipe
expansion joint provides a reliable means of absorbing integral liner is designed to prevent bellows
high axial motions up to 8”. Flexpress offers a totally impingement or fatigue due to flow induced vibration.
enclosed, externally pressurized stainless steel bellows Carbon Pipe
Length Standard pressure ratings up to 300 PSI. Maximm test
that is protected from external damage by an external Flow Liner Flexpress FPD/FxF
pressure 1.5 times maximum working pressure.
cover. The rugged construction of the external cover is Carbon Steel Carbon Steel (Flanged Ends)
Internal Guide Ring Available with flanged ends or beveled weld ends.
also designed for the working pressure. The Flexpress External Guide Ring
300 Stainless
carbon steel pipe integral liner is designed to prevent 150 lb.
Steel Bellows
bellows impingement or fatigue due to flow induced Steel Plate
vibration. Standard drain port allows convenient removal Fixed Standard Sizes
of condensation and sediment in steam service
applications. Another important design feature of the
Flange 2” to 24” I.D.
Carbon Pipe
Carbon
Flexpress is the internal guide ring which maintains the Drain Port Carbon Steel Cover, CEMENT W
Steel Pipe
Flow Liner EP
LA AR
Standard Wall Pipe R
longitudinal centerline of the expansion joint and R
H O SE
E X-
Flow Liner

A
T

N
C
eliminates the first set of pipe guides required (4 pipe

DU

TY
FL
PR O
dia.) on each side of the Flexpress saving material and
labor. Standard pressure ratings up to 300 PSI. Maximum 150 lb. CSA standard B-51
certified. Inspected Intermediate
test pressure 1.5 times maximum working pressure. Steel Plate and tested by the

DS
Anchor Base

TY
Available with flanged ends or beveled weld ends. Fixed W Technical Standards Flexpress FPD/WxW

AR
ARRAN

EX
Flange and Safety Authority

D
(Weld Ends)

N
C
E
ED TA of Canada.
Standard Sizes S I S
N D U S T RY
Drain Port Carbon Steel Cover,
Length Standard Wall Pipe
2” to 24” I.D.
Additional sizes available. Please consult factory.
Flexpress FPS/FxF
(Flanged Ends)

Flexpress Pipe Guide Main Anchor

CEMENT W
LA AR Single Class
EP R
R
H O SE expansion joint
E X-
A
T

N
C

Length NOTE: Proper guiding and anchoring is essential to an

DU

TY
FL

installation of Flexpress expansion joints to prevent

PR O

Flexpress
Dual Class buckling or squirming of the pipeline.
CSA standard B-51
expansion joint
certified. Inspected Main Anchor For proper guide spacing, see PIPE GUIDE SPACING
DS

with intermediate
TY

Pipe Guide
W and tested by the chart on page 29.
AR

anchor base
ARRAN Technical Standards
EX

D
N

and Safety Authority

C

E A
ED
ST
S I
N D U S T RY of Canada.
Steel Cut
Beveled Flexpress FPS/WxW
Weld End
(Weld Ends)

Typical Flexpress Installation

18 19
 Flexpress™ Externally Pressurized Guided Expansion Joints 1.877.METAL EJ • www.flexhose.com

8 11⁄2 8 11⁄2
up to 8” axial compression up to 1.50” axial extension up to 8” axial compression
up to 1.50” axial extension

150# Single Class Expansion Joints 300# Single Class Expansion Joints
FxF (Flanged Ends) or WxW (Weld Ends) FxF (Flanged Ends) or WxW (Weld Ends)
For up to 8” of movement For up to 8” of movement
Flexpress FPS-FxF150/FPS-WxW150 Flexpress FPS-FxF300/FPS-WxW300
Design Pressure 150 PSIG • Test Pressure 225 PSIG Design Pressure 300 PSIG • Test Pressure 450 PSIG
I.D. Bellows Length (In.) Movement Capabilility (In.) Weight (Lbs.) I.D. Bellows Length (In.) Movement Capabilility (In.) Weight (Lbs.)
(In.) Area (Sq. In.) FP/150-FxF FP/150-WxW Compression Extension FP/150-FxF FP/150-WxW (In.) Area (Sq. In.) FP/300-FxF FP/300-WxW Compression Extension FP/300-FxF FP/300-WxW
2.00 12 25.50 23.25 4.00 .75 44.00 33.00 2.00 12 25.75 23.25 4.00 .75 49.00 35.00
34.50 32.00 6.00 1.12 56.00 46.00 34.75 32.00 6.00 1.12 63.00 48.00
41.50 39.25 8.00 1.50 65.00 55.00 41.75 39.25 8.00 1.50 72.00 58.00
2.50 12 25.50 23.25 4.00 .75 51.00 35.00 2.50 12 25.75 23.25 4.00 .75 56.00 36.00
34.50 32.00 6.00 1.12 65.00 50.00 34.75 32.00 6.00 1.12 73.00 52.00
41.50 39.25 8.00 1.50 75.00 60.00 41.75 39.25 8.00 1.50 84.00 63.00
3.00 16 24.50 22.25 4.00 .75 63.00 46.00 3.00 16 24.75 22.25 4.00 .75 75.00 47.00
31.50 28.50 6.00 1.12 74.00 57.00 31.25 28.50 6.00 1.12 87.00 59.00
39.50 37.25 8.00 1.50 91.00 74.00 39.75 37.25 8.00 1.50 106.00 78.00
4.00 30 25.75 22.75 4.00 .75 99.00 72.00 4.00 30 25.75 22.75 4.00 .75 121.00 74.00
32.50 29.50 6.00 1.12 117.00 89.00 32.50 29.50 6.00 1.12 141.00 94.00
41.25 38.50 8.00 1.50 144.00 116.00 41.25 38.50 8.00 1.50 170.00 124.00
5.00 42 24.00 21.50 4.00 .75 128.00 95.00 5.00 42 24.50 21.50 4.00 .75 158.00 97.00
30.00 27.50 6.00 1.12 149.00 116.00 30.75 27.50 6.00 1.12 181.00 120.00
36.25 33.75 8.00 1.50 171.00 138.00 36.75 33.75 8.00 1.50 203.00 143.00
6.00 53 24.00 21.50 4.00 .75 144.00 102.00 6.00 53 25.25 21.50 4.00 .75 190.00 106.00
30.25 27.50 6.00 1.12 167.00 125.00 31.25 27.50 6.00 1.12 214.00 130.00
36.25 33.75 8.00 1.50 191.00 149.00 37.50 33.75 8.00 1.50 239.00 155.00
8.00 83 25.25 22.50 4.00 .75 228.00 161.00 8.00 83 26.75 22.50 4.00 .75 295.00 168.00
32.00 29.00 6.00 1.12 265.00 198.00 33.50 29.00 6.00 1.12 336.00 209.00
38.50 35.75 8.00 1.50 302.00 236.00 40.00 35.75 8.00 1.50 377.00 250.00
10.00 135 26.75 23.75 4.00 1.00 306.00 209.00 10.00 135 28.50 23.75 4.00 1.00 396.00 216.00
34.00 30.75 6.00 1.50 358.00 261.00 35.75 30.75 6.00 1.50 452.00 272.00
43.25 40.00 8.00 2.00 434.00 337.00 44.75 40.00 8.00 2.00 534.00 354.00
12.00 182 28.00 24.50 4.00 1.00 400.00 257.00 12.00 182 30.50 24.50 4.00 1.00 540.00 285.00
35.75 32.00 6.00 1.50 467.00 324.00 38.25 32.00 6.00 1.50 610.00 355.00
45.25 41.75 8.00 2.00 562.00 419.00 47.75 41.75 8.00 2.00 712.00 457.00
Technical Standards and Safety Authority of Canada.
CSA standard B-51 certified. Inspected and tested by the

Technical Standards and Safety Authority of Canada.

CSA standard B-51 certified. Inspected and tested by the
14.00 212 28.25 24.50 4.00 .75 491.00 293.00 14.00 212 30.75 25.00 4.00 .75 732.00 373.00
36.00 32.00 6.00 1.12 565.00 367.00 38.50 32.50 6.00 1.12 828.00 468.00
45.50 41.75 8.00 1.50 671.00 473.00 48.00 42.25 8.00 1.50 966.00 607.00
16.00 276 28.75 24.50 4.00 .75 547.00 329.00 16.00 276 31.50 25.00 4.00 .75 798.00 418.00
36.25 32.00 6.00 1.12 631.00 412.00 39.25 32.50 6.00 1.12 905.00 525.00
46.00 41.75 8.00 1.50 749.00 530.00 48.75 42.25 8.00 1.50 1060.00 680.00
18.00 338 29.00 24.50 4.00 .75 652.00 364.00 18.00 338 31.75 25.00 4.00 .75 1007.00 463.00
36.50 32.00 6.00 1.12 745.00 456.00 39.50 32.50 6.00 1.12 1126.00 581.00
46.25 41.75 8.00 1.50 875.00 588.00 49.00 42.25 8.00 1.50 1297.00 753.00
20.00 404 29.75 24.50 4.00 .75 766.00 400.00 20.00 404 32.00 25.00 4.00 .75 1189.00 508.00
37.25 32.00 6.00 1.12 868.00 501.00 39.75 32.50 6.00 1.12 1319.00 637.00
47.00 41.75 8.00 1.50 1012.00 646.00 49.25 42.25 8.00 1.50 1507.00 826.00
22.00 481 30.00 24.50 4.00 .75 848.00 436.00 22.00 481 32.75 25.00 4.00 .75 1356.00 553.00
37.50 32.00 6.00 1.12 959.00 546.00 40.50 32.50 6.00 1.12 1497.00 693.00
47.25 41.75 8.00 1.50 1115.00 703.00 50.00 42.25 8.00 1.50 1702.00 899.00
24.00 562 30.25 24.50 4.00 .75 961.00 472.00 24.00 562 33.00 25.00 4.00 .75 1619.00 598.00
38.00 32.00 6.00 1.12 1081.00 590.00 40.75 32.50 6.00 1.12 1772.00 750.00
47.50 41.75 8.00 1.50 1250.00 761.00 50.25 42.25 8.00 1.50 1993.00 972.00
20 21
 Flexpress™ Externally Pressurized Guided Expansion Joints 1.877.METAL EJ • www.flexhose.com

16 4 16 4
up to 16” axial compression up to 4” axial extension up to 16” axial compression up to 4” axial extension

150# Dual Class 300# Dual Class

Expansion Joints Expansion Joints
FxF (Flanged Ends) or WxW (Weld Ends) FxF (Flanged Ends) or WxW (Weld Ends)
For up to 16” of movement For up to 16” of movement

Flexpress FPD-FxF150/FPD-WxW150 Flexpress FPD-FxF300/FPD-WxW300

Design Pressure 150 PSIG • Test Pressure 225 PSIG Design Pressure 300 PSIG • Test Pressure 450 PSIG
I.D. Bellows Length (In.) Movement Capabilility (In.) Weight (Lbs.) I.D. Bellows Length (In.) Movement Capabilility (In.) Weight (Lbs.)
(In.) Area (Sq. In.) FP/150-FxF FP/150-WxW Compression Extension FP/150-FxF FP/150-WxW (In.) Area (Sq. In.) FP/300-FxF FP/300-WxW Compression Extension FP/300-FxF FP/300-WxW

2.00 12 43.25 39.50 8.00 1.50 70.00 60.00 2.00 12 43.25 39.50 8.00 1.50 76.00 62.00
61.25 57.25 12.00 2.25 95.00 85.00 61.25 57.25 12.00 2.25 103.00 89.00
75.25 71.50 16.00 3.00 112.00 102.00 75.25 71.50 16.00 3.00 123.00 109.00

2.50 12 43.25 39.50 8.00 1.50 79.00 65.00 2.50 12 43.25 39.50 8.00 1.50 87.00 67.00
61.25 57.25 12.00 2.25 106.00 92.00 61.25 57.25 12.00 2.25 117.00 97.00
75.25 71.50 16.00 3.00 126.00 112.00 75.25 71.50 16.00 3.00 138.00 118.00

3.00 16 41.25 37.50 8.00 1.50 98.00 82.00 3.00 16 41.25 37.50 8.00 1.50 110.00 82.00
54.25 50.25 12.00 2.25 120.00 104.00 54.25 50.25 12.00 2.25 134.00 106.00
71.25 67.50 16.00 3.00 154.00 138.00 71.25 67.50 16.00 3.00 172.00 146.00

4.00 30 42.50 38.75 8.00 1.50 153.00 127.00 4.00 30 42.50 38.75 8.00 1.50 177.00 133.00
56.00 52.00 12.00 2.25 188.00 162.00 56.00 52.00 12.00 2.25 215.00 171.00
73.75 70.00 16.00 3.00 242.00 216.00 73.75 70.00 16.00 3.00 275.00 231.00

5.00 42 40.25 36.00 8.00 1.50 200.00 170.00 5.00 42 40.25 36.00 8.00 1.50 230.00 174.00
52.50 48.00 12.00 2.25 242.00 212.00 52.50 48.00 12.00 2.25 276.00 220.00
64.75 60.50 16.00 3.00 286.00 296.00 64.75 60.50 16.00 3.00 322.00 266.00

6.00 53 40.25 36.25 8.00 1.50 222.00 184.00 6.00 53 40.25 36.25 8.00 1.50 270.00 192.00
52.50 48.25 12.00 2.25 268.00 230.00 52.50 48.25 12.00 2.25 318.00 240.00
64.75 60.75 16.00 3.00 316.00 278.00 64.75 60.75 16.00 3.00 368.00 290.00

8.00 83 42.50 38.25 8.00 1.50 320.00 260.00 8.00 83 42.50 38.25 8.00 1.50 416.00 294.00
55.75 51.25 12.00 2.25 414.00 354.00 55.75 51.25 12.00 2.25 492.00 376.00
69.00 64.75 16.00 3.00 490.00 430.00 69.00 64.75 16.00 3.00 574.00 458.00

10.00 135 45.25 40.50 8.00 2.00 450.00 364.00 10.00 135 45.25 40.50 8.00 2.00 540.00 378.00
59.50 54.75 12.00 3.00 554.00 468.00 59.50 54.75 12.00 3.00 651.00 489.00
78.00 73.25 16.00 4.00 706.00 620.00 78.00 73.25 16.00 4.00 816.00 654.00

12.00 182 47.25 42.25 8.00 2.00 583.00 455.00 12.00 182 47.25 42.25 8.00 2.00 741.00 511.00
62.50 57.25 12.00 3.00 717.00 589.00 62.50 57.25 12.00 3.00 881.00 651.00
81.75 76.75 16.00 4.00 1085.00 855.00
Technical Standards and Safety Authority of Canada.
CSA standard B-51 certified. Inspected and tested by the

81.75 76.75 16.00 4.00 907.00 779.00

Technical Standards and Safety Authority of Canada.

CSA standard B-51 certified. Inspected and tested by the
14.00 212 47.50 42.25 8.00 2.00 709.00 529.00 14.00 212 47.50 42.25 8.00 2.00 1003.00 673.00
62.75 57.25 12.00 3.00 857.00 677.00 62.75 57.25 12.00 3.00 1193.00 863.00
82.00 76.75 16.00 4.00 1069.00 889.00 82.00 76.75 16.00 4.00 1471.00 1141.00

16.00 276 48.00 42.25 8.00 2.00 774.00 574.00 16.00 276 48.00 42.25 8.00 2.00 944.00 750.00
63.25 57.25 12.00 3.00 940.00 740.00 63.25 57.25 12.00 3.00 1158.00 964.00
82.50 76.75 16.00 4.00 1176.00 976.00 82.50 76.75 16.00 4.00 1468.00 1274.00

18.00 338 48.25 42.25 8.00 2.00 893.00 633.00 18.00 338 48.25 42.25 8.00 2.00 1332.00 832.00
63.50 57.25 12.00 3.00 1077.00 817.00 63.50 57.25 12.00 3.00 1568.00 1068.00
82.75 76.75 16.00 4.00 1341.00 1081.00 82.75 76.75 16.00 4.00 1912.00 1412.00

20.00 404 49.00 42.25 8.00 2.00 1054.00 724.00 20.00 404 49.00 42.25 8.00 2.00 1646.00 1016.00
64.25 57.25 12.00 3.00 1254.00 924.00 64.25 57.25 12.00 3.00 1904.00 1274.00
83.50 76.75 16.00 4.00 1544.00 1214.00 83.50 76.75 16.00 4.00 2282.00 1652.00

22.00 481 49.25 42.25 8.00 2.00 1128.00 758.00 22.00 481 49.25 42.25 8.00 2.00 1738.00 998.00
64.50 57.25 12.00 3.00 1348.00 978.00 64.50 57.25 12.00 3.00 2018.00 1278.00
84.75 76.75 16.00 4.00 1662.00 1292.00 84.75 76.75 16.00 4.00 2430.00 1690.00

24.00 562 49.50 42.25 8.00 2.00 1292.00 852.00 24.00 562 49.50 42.25 8.00 2.00 2028.00 1078.00
64.75 57.25 12.00 3.00 1528.00 1088.00 64.75 57.25 12.00 3.00 2332.00 1382.00
84.00 76.75 16.00 4.00 1870.00 1430.00 84.00 76.75 16.00 4.00 2776.00 1826.00
22 23
 Bellowsflex™ Metal Bellows Expansion Joints 1.877.METAL EJ • www.flexhose.com

Large r 31⁄4 7
⁄
8 Bellowsflex
ry fo
Invento iate up to 3.25” axial compression up to .875” axial extension Test Pressure 75 PSIG Design Pressure 50 PSIG Max Temperature 750°F
Immed t! Overall Length (In.)
n
Shipme I.D. Bellows Axial Deflection FxF Axial Deflection WxW Movement Capabilility (In.) Weight (Lbs.)

Bellowsflex
(In.) Area (Sq. In.) 1.50 2.00 2.50 1.50 2.00 2.50 Compression Extension FxF WxW

™ 2.00
2.50
3.00
5.90
8.30
12.20
6.00
6.00
6.00
7.00
7.00
7.00
8.00
8.00
8.00
8.00
8.00
8.00
9.00
9.00
9.00
10.00
10.00
10.00
Note: 80/20 Rule:
80% motion compression/
9.00
13.00
14.00
2.00
3.00
4.00
4.00 20.10 6.00 7.00 8.00 8.00 9.00 10.00 20% extension. 18.00 6.00
5.00 30.70 6.00 7.00 8.00 8.00 9.00 10.00 22.00 7.00
6.00 43.40 6.00 7.00 8.00 8.00 9.00 10.00 Example: 27.00 9.00
Axial Deflection 2.00 2.50 3.00 2.00 2.50 3.00 Expansion joints
8.00 72.80 7.00 9.00 9.50 9.00 11.00 11.50 rated for 43.00 15.00
10.00 111.00 7.00 9.00 9.50 9.00 11.00 11.50 2” total axial travel = 62.00 20.00
BELLOWSFLEX metal bellows type 12.00 154.00 7.00 9.00 9.50 9.00 11.00 11.50 1.60 axial compression 91.00 25.00
Length Length .40 axial extension
expansion joints are designed for a Axial Deflection 2.00 3.00 3.50 2.00 3.00 3.50
14.00 183.00 7.00 9.00 9.50 10.00 12.00 12.50 110.00 29.00
wide range of service conditions. The 16.00 237.00 7.00 9.00 9.50 10.00 12.00 12.50 154.00 35.00
standard bellows element is manufactured 18.00 299.00 7.00 9.00 9.50 10.00 12.00 12.50 172.00 40.00
Axial Deflection 2.00 3.00 4.00 2.00 3.00 4.00
with 321 stainless steel. Other stainless 20.00 363.00 7.50 10.00 12.50 12.00 14.50 17.00 174.00 42.00
steel or heat and corrosion resistant alloys 22.00 434.00 7.50 10.00 12.50 12.00 14.50 17.00 198.00 47.00
24.00 511.00 7.50 10.00 12.50 12.00 14.50 17.00 247.00 54.00
are available for bellows and end fittings.
Standard pressure ratings up to 300 PSI. Test Pressure 225 PSIG Design Pressure 150 PSIG Max Temperature 750°F
Maximum system test pressure 1.5 times Overall Length (In.)
maximum working pressure. Available with I.D. Bellows Axial Deflection FxF Axial Deflection WxW Movement Capabilility (In.) Weight (Lbs.)
flanged or beveled weld end fittings. (In.) Area (Sq. In.) 1.50 2.00 2.50 1.50 2.00 2.50 Compression Extension FxF WxW
Bellowsflex can also be supplied with Bellowsflex WxW Steel Beveled Cut
2.00 5.90 6.00 7.00 8.00 8.00 9.00 10.00 9.00 2.00
Weld End Note: 80/20 Rule:
accessories such as tie rods, limit rods, (Weld Ends) 2.50 8.30 6.00 7.00 8.00 8.00 9.00 10.00 13.00 3.00
3.00 12.20 6.00 7.00 8.00 8.00 9.00 10.00 80% motion compression/ 14.00 4.00
flow liners, and protective covers/shrouds. 4.00 20.10 6.00 7.00 8.00 8.00 9.00 10.00 20% extension. 18.00 6.00
5.00 30.70 6.00 7.00 8.00 8.00 9.00 10.00 22.00 7.00
6.00 43.40 6.00 7.00 8.00 8.00 9.00 10.00 Example: 27.00 9.00
150 lb. 321
Standard Sizes Steel Plate Stainless Steel Axial Deflection 2.00 2.50 3.00 2.00 2.50 3.00 Expansion joints
rated for
8.00 72.80 8.00 9.00 10.00 11.00 12.00 13.00 43.00 15.00
2” to 24” I.D. Fixed Flange Bellows
10.00 111.00 8.00 9.00 10.00 11.00 12.00 13.00 3.50” total axial travel = 62.00 20.00
12.00 154.00 8.00 9.00 10.00 11.00 12.00 13.00 2.80 axial compression 91.00 25.00
Custom sizes available up to 60” .70 axial extension
Bellowsflex FxF 14.00 183.00 8.00 9.00 10.00 11.00 12.00 13.00 110.00 29.00
(Flanged Ends) Axial Deflection 2.00 3.00 3.50 2.00 3.00 3.50
CSA standard B-51 certified. 16.00 237.00 7.50 10.00 11.00 12.00 14.50 15.50 154.00 35.00
Inspected and tested by the 18.00 299.00 7.50 10.00 11.00 12.00 14.50 15.50 172.00 40.00
Technical Standards and 20.00 363.00 7.50 10.00 11.00 12.00 14.50 15.50 174.00 42.00
Safety Authority of Canada. Optional Multi-Ply Bellows 22.00 434.00 7.50 10.00 11.00 12.00 14.50 15.50 198.00 47.00
Multi-ply bellows provides flexibility and endurance. 24.00 511.00 7.50 10.00 11.00 12.00 14.50 15.50 247.00 54.00
The reduced thickness of the individual bellows plies results in
Test Pressure 450 PSIG Design Pressure 300 PSIG Max Temperature 750°F
lower bending stresses due to axial
motion increasing the life of the bellows. Overall Length (In.)
Pipe Guide I.D. Bellows Axial Deflection FxF Axial Deflection WxW Movement Capabilility (In.) Weight (Lbs.)
NOTE: Proper guiding and anchoring is essential to an (In.) Area (Sq. In.) 1.00 1.50 2.00 1.00 1.50 2.00 Compression Extension FxF WxW
installation of Bellowsflex expansion joints to prevent
buckling or squirming of the pipeline. 2.00 5.90 6.00 7.00 8.00 8.00 9.00 10.00 20.00 2.00
Bellowsflex 2.50 8.30 6.00 7.00 8.00 8.00 9.00 10.00 Note: 80/20 Rule: 25.00 3.00
expansion 3.00 12.20 6.00 7.00 8.00 8.00 9.00 10.00 80% motion compression/ 33.00 4.00
For proper guide spacing, see PIPE GUIDE SPACING 20% extension.
joint
chart on page 29.
4.00 20.10 6.00 7.00 8.00 8.00 9.00 10.00 40.00 6.00
5.00 30.70 6.00 7.00 8.00 8.00 9.00 10.00 49.00 7.00
6.00 43.40 6.00 7.00 8.00 8.00 9.00 10.00 Example: 66.00 9.00
Axial Deflection 1.50 2.00 2.50 1.50 2.00 2.50 Expansion joints
8.00 72.80 9.00 11.00 13.00 11.00 13.00 15.00 rated for 88.00 15.00
10.00 111.00 9.00 11.00 13.00 11.00 13.00 15.00 3” total axial travel = 124.00 20.00
Axial Deflection 2.00 2.50 3.00 2.00 2.50 3.00 2.40 axial compression
12.00 154.00 10.00 11.50 13.00 13.00 14.50 16.00 .60 axial extension 183.00 25.00
14.00 183.00 10.00 11.50 13.00 13.00 14.50 16.00 282.00 29.00
16.00 237.00 10.00 11.50 13.00 13.00 14.50 16.00 368.00 35.00
Main Anchor Intermediate Anchor Main Anchor 18.00 299.00 10.00 11.50 13.00 13.00 14.50 16.00 449.00 40.00
20.00 363.00 10.00 11.50 13.00 13.00 14.50 16.00 544.00 42.00
NOTE: Optional Tie rods and 22.00 434.00 10.00 11.50 13.00 13.00 14.50 16.00 676.00 47.00
Limit rods available. See page 9. Typical Bellowsflex Installation 24.00 511.00 10.00 11.50 13.00 13.00 14.50 16.00 854.00 54.00

24 25
a
a
a
26
Pumpflex™ Metal Bellows Expansion Joints

Large r
ry fo
Invento iate
Immed t!
Shipme
n

Pumpflex
PUMPFLEX bellows pump connector features a 304 series
stainless steel bellows construction. Pumpflex has a

reduction as well as strain relief, misalignment and

thermal growth in a piping system not to exceed .5”
1
⁄2
up to .5” axial compression

short face-to-face dimension for compact installations.

It is ideal in applications for vibration control and noise

axial compression. Pumpflex features tie rod restraints to

prevent elongation, and compression sleeves to prevent
over compression. Standard pressure ratings up to 225
PSI. Maximum system test pressure 1.5 times maximum
working pressure. Manufactured with a 3:1 safety factor.
Available with 150 lb. flat face flanges.

Standard Sizes
2” to 12” I.D.
Additional alloys, styles, sizes and higher working
pressures available. Please consult factory.

CSA standard B-51 certified.

Inspected and tested by the
Technical Standards and
Safety Authority of Canada.
300 Series
Stainless
Steel
Multi-ply
Bellows

OPTIONAL
VANSTONE FLANGE
Vanstone flanges provide a
cost-effective means of isolating
1

the media from the standard carbon

steel flange. The Vanstone option,
⁄8
up to .125” axial extension

Length

Compression Stops

without the use of tie rods, allows full

rotation of the backup flange to allow
for bolt hole alignment.
PR
EXC
EE
OD
W

S
U

AR
IN
CT

DU
REP

X- H
FLE O
™

RemovableTie Rod Pin

Restraint for Installation

LACEM

RANT
150 lb.
Steel Plate
Fixed Flange

EN
T
YSE

S T R Y S TA N
Tie Rod
Restraint

DA
A
D

R
RR
AN
S
TY
Pumpflex BPC-FX (Flanged Ends)
I.D.
(In.)

2.00

2.50

3.00

4.00

5.00

6.00

8.00

10.00

12.00

Anchor
Length
(In.)

4.375

4.375

4.375

4.625

4.875

5.000

5.875

6.250

6.625

Typical Pumpflex
Installation
225

225

225

225

225

225

225

225

225

a
a 1.877.METAL EJ • www.flexhose.com

Pressure (PSI)
70°F 360°F

210

210

210

210

210

210

210

210

210

Typical piping layout showing Pumpflex installation

within a properly anchored system.

FLOW

PUMP
Movement Capabilility (In.)
Compression Extension

.50

.50

.50

.50

.50

.50

.50

.50

.50

Expansion Joint
wth Control Unit

FOUNDATION
.125

.125

.125

.125

.125

.125

.125

.125

.125
Parallel

NOTE: Custom sizes and higher working pressures available. Please consult factory.

Anchor
to Structure
.125

.125

.125

.125

.125

.125

.125

.125

.125
Weight
(Lbs.)

11.00

15.00

17.00

27.00

33.00

38.00

66.00

87.00

114.00

Correct
anchoring
eliminates
forces being
delivered to
mating
equipment

27
 BellowsXhaust/Round Duct Work Expansion Joints 1.877.METAL EJ • www.flexhose.com

31⁄2 17⁄8 BellowsXhaust

Large r up to 3.5” axial compression up to 1.5” axial extension Max Design Pressure 50 PSIG • Test Pressure 75 PSIG • Max Temperature 1200°F

ry fo
Invento iate
Overall Length (In.)

Immed t!
I.D. Bellows Axial Compression Axial Extension Weight (Lbs.)
(In.) Area (Sq. In.) 1.00 2.00 2.50 3.50 0.50 1.00 1.30 1.50 FxF WxW

Bellows
n
Shipme 4.00 20.10 7.00 10.00 11.00 12.00 7.00 10.00 11.00 12.00 18.00 6.00
5.00 30.70 7.00 10.00 11.00 12.00 7.00 10.00 11.00 12.00 22.00 7.00
6.00 43.40 7.00 10.00 11.00 12.00 7.00 10.00 11.00 12.00 27.00 9.00
8.00 72.80 7.00 10.00 11.00 12.00 7.00 10.00 11.00 12.00 43.00 15.00
10.00 111.00 8.00 11.00 12.00 13.00 8.00 11.00 12.00 13.00 62.00 20.00
12.00 154.00 8.00 11.00 12.00 13.00 8.00 11.00 12.00 13.00 91.00 25.00
Axial Comp./Ext. 2.00 2.50 3.00 3.50 1.00 1.30 1.50 1.80

Xhaust
14.00 111.00 12.00 13.00 14.00 15.00 12.00 13.00 14.00 15.00 110.00 29.00

™ 16.00
18.00
20.00
154.00
183.00
237.00
12.00
12.00
13.00
13.00
13.00
14.00
14.00
14.00
15.00
15.00
15.00
17.00
12.00
12.00
13.00
13.00 14.00
13.00 14.00
14.00 15.00
15.00
15.00
17.00
154.00
172.00
174.00
35.00
40.00
42.00
22.00 299.00 13.00 14.00 15.00 17.00 13.00 14.00 15.00 17.00 198.00 47.00
24.00 363.00 13.00 14.00 15.00 17.00 13.00 14.00 15.00 17.00 247.00 54.00
26.00 434.00 13.00 14.00 15.00 17.00 13.00 14.00 15.00 17.00 284.00 60.00
28.00 511.00 13.00 14.00 15.00 17.00 13.00 14.00 15.00 17.00 311.00 68.00
BELLOWSXHAUST expansion joints are Axial Comp./Ext. 2.00 3.00 3.50 1.00 1.50 1.80
Length Length 30.00 789.00 14.00 16.00 18.00 14.00 16.00 18.00 361.00 73.00
designed to absorb pipe expansion,
32.00 895.00 14.00 16.00 18.00 14.00 16.00 18.00 465.00 85.00
reduce noise, and dampen vibration. 34.00 1005.00 14.00 16.00 18.00 14.00 16.00 18.00 484.00 89.00
They are ideal for low pressure (up to 36.00 1125.00 14.00 16.00 18.00 14.00 16.00 18.00 575.00 100.00
38.00 1245.00 14.00 16.00 18.00 14.00 16.00 18.00 663.00 111.00
50 psi) and high temperature (1200°F) 40.00 1375.00 14.00 16.00 18.00 14.00 16.00 18.00 689.00 116.00
applications. The assembly weights 42.00 1510.00 14.00 16.00 18.00 14.00 16.00 18.00 801.00 129.00
have been reduced to permit use in 44.00 1655.00 14.00 16.00 18.00 14.00 16.00 18.00 852.00 136.00
46.00 1800.00 14.00 16.00 18.00 14.00 16.00 18.00 889.00 142.00
thin wall flue duct systems. 48.00 1955.00 14.00 16.00 18.00 14.00 16.00 18.00 1012.00 156.00
Most common applications are exhaust NOTE: Bellows spring rates are available. Please consult factory.
connections on diesel, gasoline or gas
Steel
turbine engine installations and Beveled Cut
ducting conveying corrosive gases. To
Weld End To Atmosphere Typical BellowsXhaust
simplify selection, standard designs
Flow Diagram
have been developed with a 321 BellowsXhaust WxW
150 lb. 321
stainless steel bellows element. Steel Plate Stainless Steel
(Weld Ends)
Fixed Flange Bellows BellowsXhaust
BellowsXhaust are available with Anchor Expansion
Vent Stack Joint
flanged ends, weld ends, and optional BellowsXhaust FxF at Wall Exhaust
Ducting
vanstone flanges with axial travel up (Flanged Ends)
to 3.5 inches.

CONCRETE WALL
Standard Sizes OPTIONAL VANSTONE FLANGE
4” to 48” I.D. Vanstone flanges provide a cost-effective means of
Other corrosion resistant alloys available. isolating a corrosive gasous media from the standard
Please consult factory.
carbon steel flange vs. a bellows exhaust unit with high
ENGINE GENERATOR/BOILER
CSA standard B-51 certified. alloy flanges. The Vanstone design are rotatable for ease
Inspected and tested by the
Technical Standards and of bolt hole alignment.
Safety Authority of Canada.

28 29
 Guideline™ Pipe/Tube Alignment Guides CT
REP
LACEM
EN
T
1.877.METAL EJ • www.flexhose.com
U W
X- H O
FLE
D

A
RR
PR

AN
SE
Guideline Pipe/Tube Alignment Guides

TY
1.50” MAXIMUM INSULATION 2.00” MAXIMUM INSULATION

EXC

W
AR Nom. Max. General Nom. Max. General
RANT

EE

Y
Pipe Axial

S
Pipe Axial

D
D
S R
IN
DA Size Mvmt Wt. Size Mvmt Wt.

Guideline
DU
S T R Y S TA N (In.) (In.) W H R Y X D L (Lb.) (In.) (In.) W H R Y X D L (Lb.)

™ .75
1.00
1.25
4.00
4.00
4.00
7.13
7.13
7.13
6.75
6.75
6.75
4.00
4.00
4.00
4.38
4.38
4.38
1.75 .63 3.00 8.00
1.75 .63 3.00 8.00
1.75 .63 3.00 8.00
.75
1.00
1.25
4.00
4.00
4.00
8.13
8.13
8.13
7.63
7.63
7.63
4.38
4.38
4.38
5.13
5.13
5.13
1.75 .63 3.00 9.00
1.75 .63 3.00 9.00
1.75 .63 3.00 9.00
1.50 4.00 7.13 6.75 4.00 4.38 1.75 .63 3.00 8.00 1.50 4.00 8.13 7.63 4.38 5.13 1.75 .63 3.00 9.00
2.00 4.00 8.13 7.63 4.38 5.13 1.75 .63 3.00 9.00 2.00 4.00 10.13 9.25 5.25 6.13 1.75 .63 3.00 11.00
2.50 4.00 8.13 7.63 4.38 5.13 1.75 .63 3.00 9.00 2.50 4.00 10.13 9.25 5.25 6.13 1.75 .63 3.00 11.00
3.00 4.00 10.13 9.25 5.25 6.13 1.75 .63 3.00 11.00 3.00 4.00 10.13 9.25 5.25 6.13 1.75 .63 3.00 11.00
4.00 4.00 10.13 9.25 5.25 6.13 1.75 .63 3.00 11.00 4.00 4.00 12.13 11.63 6.25 7.00 2.75 .63 4.00 17.00
GUIDELINE pipe alignment guides are designed to 5.00 4.00 12.13 11.63 6.25 7.00 2.75 .63 4.00 17.00 5.00 4.00 12.13 11.63 6.25 7.00 2.75 .63 4.00 17.00
6.00 4.00 12.13 11.63 6.25 7.00 2.75 .63 4.00 17.00 6.00 4.00 14.13 13.38 7.00 8.25 2.75 .63 4.00 20.00
maintain the longintudinal position of the pipe’s
8.00 4.00 14.13 13.38 7.00 8.25 2.75 .63 4.00 20.00 8.00 6.00 16.13 15.13 7.88 9.88 4.00 .75 6.00 40.00
centerline with minimal axial restraints. Proper pipe 10.00 6.00 18.13 17.00 8.88 10.88 4.00 .75 6.00 48.00 10.00 6.00 18.13 17.00 8.88 10.88 4.00 .75 6.00 48.00
12.00 6.00 20.13 18.75 9.75 11.88 4.00 .75 6.00 54.00 12.00 6.00 20.13 18.75 9.75 11.88 4.00 .75 6.00 54.00
guiding is vital for safe operation of piping systems
14.00 6.00 22.13 21.00 10.88 11.75 4.00 .75 6.00 61.00 14.00 6.00 22.13 21.00 10.88 11.75 4.00 .75 6.00 61.00
incorporating the use of expansion joints or use of 16.00 8.00 24.13 23.13 12.13 14.50 6.00 .88 8.00 89.00 16.00 8.00 24.13 23.13 12.13 14.50 6.00 .88 8.00 89.00
18.00 8.00 26.13 25.00 13.00 15.50 6.00 .88 8.00 102.00 18.00 8.00 26.13 25.00 13.00 15.50 6.00 .88 8.00 102.00
mechanical hard pipe loops. The use of traditional pipe
20.00 8.00 28.13 27.75 14.75 17.13 6.00 1.13 8.00 110.00 20.00 8.00 28.13 27.75 14.75 17.13 6.00 1.13 8.00 110.00
supports (rollers, clevis hangers or U-bolts) do not 24.00 8.00 32.13 31.50 16.50 19.25 6.00 1.13 8.00 150.00 24.00 8.00 32.13 31.50 16.50 19.25 6.00 1.13 8.00 150.00

assure the pipe is guided axially. Guideline assures NOTE: Pipe guides for greater insulation thickness and pipe movements available. Please consult factory.

safety of your expansion joint system. Sizing is 4D 14 D L MAX LENGTH

determined by the pipe size, axial movement and the

R INTERMEDIATE
GUIDE SPACING

amount of pipe insulation to be used. Copper tube

guides are supplied with dielectric spacers to prevent
Anchor 1st Guide 2nd Guide All Other Guides
galvanic corrosion. The two piece inside spider and two
NOTE: First pipe guide must be located within a distance no greater than four pipe diameters from the end of the bellows and the second guide must
piece guiding sleeve of the Guideline provide easy bolt be located within a distance no greater than fourteen pipe diameters from the first guide.
on installation.
Intermediate Pipe Guided Spacing
Standard Sizes NOTE: The recommendations given
for pipe anchors and guides Maximum Approx.
1
⁄ ” to 24” I.D.
2 represent the minimum requirements Nom. Distance from Distance
for controlling pipelines which Pipe Expansion Joint Between Approximate Distance Between
contain expansion joints and are Size to 1st Guide 1st and 2nd Additional Pipe Guides (Ft.)
intended to protect the expansion (In.) or Anchor Guide @ 50 PSI @ 100 PSI @ 150 PSI @ 200 PSI @ 250 PSI @ 300 PSI @ 350 PSI @ 400 PSI
joint and pipe system from abuse
and failure. However, additional pipe
.75 3.00” 10.00” 11.00 7.50 6.00 5.00 5.50 5.00 5.00 5.00
supports are often required between 1.00 4.00” 1’-2.00’” 15.00 11.00 8.50 7.50 6.50 6.00 5.50 5.0
the pipe guides in accordance with 1.25 5.00” 1’-5.00” 17.00 13.00 11.00 9.00 8.00 7.25 7.00 6.50
accepted piping practices. 1.50 6.00” 1’-9.00” 22.00 16.00 13.00 11.00 10.00 9.00 8.50 8.00
2.00 8.00” 2’-4.00” 25.00 18.00 14.00 13.00 12.00 11.00 9.50 9.00
A pipe support is any device which
2.50 10.00” 2’-11.00” 32.00 23.00 17.00 16.00 14.00 13.00 12.00 11.00
permits free movement of the piping
and carries the total weight of in line 3.00 1’-0” 3’-6.00” 38.00 27.00 22.00 19.00 17.00 16.00 15.00 14.00
equipment such as valves, meters, 4.00 1’-4.00” 4’-8.00” 52.00 37.00 31.00 27.00 24.00 22.00 20.00 18.00
expansion joints, and the weight of 5.00 1’-8.00” 5’-10.00” 62.00 45.00 37.00 32.00 28.00 27.00 24.00 23.00
the contained fluid. Pipe supports 6.00 2’-0” 7’-0” 67.00 47.00 39.00 34.00 32.00 28.00 26.00 24.00
cannot be substituted for pipe
8.00 2’-8.00” 9’-4.00” 86.00 62.00 51.00 44.00 40.00 36.00 34.00 32.00
alignment guides. Pipe rings,
U-bolts, roller supports, and 10.00 3’-4.00” 11’-8.00” 109.00 76.00 63.00 55.00 48.00 45.00 42.00 38.00
spring hangers are some 12.00 4’-0” 14’-0” 117.00 84.00 68.00 60.00 54.00 47.00 45.00 42.00
examples of conventional pipe 14.00 4’-8.00” 16’-4.00” 120.00 88.00 72.00 62.00 55.00 51.00 46.00 44.00
supports. 16.00 5’-4.00” 18’-8.00” 133.00 95.00 78.00 67.00 62.00 55.00 52.00 48.00
18.00 6’-0” 21’-0” 151.00 105.00 87.00 75.00 67.00 62.00 58.00 54.00
20.00 6’-8.00” 23’-4.00” 160.00 107.00 93.00 81.00 72.00 65.00 62.00 57.00
24.00 8’-0” 24’-0” 181.00 130.00 105.00 92.00 85.00 75.00 70.00 65.00
30 31
 Visit our website for more information on our broad range of products.
WWW.FLEXHOSE.COM

Product Overview Flexible Pipe Loop IBC Compliant Flexible Pipe Loop
Seismic Connections Hanger Kit & Accessories
Braided Metal
Pump Connectors
PurgAir ™

Expansion Joint Flexible Gas Industrial Metal Bellows Enclosed Metal Bellows
Application Guide Connection Metal Hose Expansion Joints Expansion Joints

Rubber Expansion Joint Air Separators Expansion Externally Pressurized

Expansion Joints Control Assemblies Compensators Expansion Joints

A World of Difference in Critical Piping Connections since 1968.

®

CO. I N - L I N E A I R S E PA R AT O R 3”-24”
INC.
Corporate Headquarters Expanded Design and Manufacturing Operation ®
6801 Crossbow Drive • East Syracuse, NY 13057 6809 Crossbow Drive • East Syracuse, NY 13057
315.437.1611 • Fax 315.437.1903 315.701.0001 • Fax 315.701.0032 CO.
Distribution Centers in California, Florida, Illinois, Ohio and Texas INC.
Toll Free 1-877-Tri-Flex (874-3539) • Email: [email protected]
PA-10/18

Visit us on the web www.flexhose.com