The application of expansion joints (also known as compensators) is critical in the power industry, especially in thermal power plants, nuclear power plants and thermal power plants. Piping systems in these facilities need to withstand extreme temperature and pressure conditions while also dealing with thermal expansion and contraction, mechanical vibrations, and possible installation errors. Here are some specific applications of expansion joints in the power industry:
Steam turbine generator set：
In the connecting pipes between the steam turbine and the driven machinery, such as the communication pipe between the middle and low cylinders, the steam extraction pipe and the steam exhaust pipe, the expansion joint is used to reduce the external force acting on the steam turbine and ensure smooth operation.
Rigid connections are transformed into flexible connections using wave expansion joints, reducing thrust and vibration to the turbine and protecting the equipment from pipe stresses.
Thermal pipeline：
In thermal pipes, expansion joints can absorb thermal expansion and contraction caused by temperature changes, avoiding damage to pipes and supporting structures.
Long tie rod constrained expansion joint and elbow pressure balanced expansion joint are used to control pressure blind plate force and ensure safe operation of pipeline system.
Pumps and valves：
Pipes near pumps and valves are often affected by thermal stresses and mechanical vibrations, and expansion joints can absorb these stresses and protect critical equipment.
Water treatment system：
The flexible rubber expansion joint is used in the pipeline in the water treatment process of thermal power plant to ensure the stable operation of the system and absorb the stress caused by the change of water flow.
Flue duct and flue gas treatment system：
Rectangular non-metallic compensator/expansion joints and fabric expansion joints are used for flue and container equipment takeovers and are capable of handling displacements under large sections, low pressure and high temperature conditions.
These expansion joints are made of high temperature resistant composite materials that can silence sound and shock, providing a wide range of compensation amounts and extended service life.
Condenser system：
The rubber expansion joint of condenser is used to withstand the thermal expansion and contraction of high temperature and high pressure inside the condenser, so as to ensure the normal operation of the condenser.
Bituminous wind coal pipeline：
Bellows expansion joint is used in bituminous air coal pipeline, which can be freely expanded and contracted to adapt to the displacement change in work.
Smoke duct of power station：
The corrugated expansion joint is used in the smoke air duct of the power station, which can withstand the displacement in the two-dimensional or three-dimensional direction, ensuring the stability and safety of the system operation.
The selection and design of expansion joints must take into account factors such as working pressure, temperature range, type of displacement (axial, transverse, angular), fatigue life, media properties, and pipe diameter to ensure their effective application in the power industry.