Pipeline compensator, also known as expansion joint or expansion joint, is a device used to absorb the displacement of the pipeline system due to thermal expansion and contraction, vibration, installation error, etc., to reduce the stress in the pipeline and prevent pipeline damage. According to different design and application requirements, pipe compensators can be divided into many types. Here are some common pipe compensator classifications:
Bellows Compensator：
Axial type corrugated compensator: mainly absorbs the axial displacement of the pipe.
Lateral type corrugated compensator: absorbs the lateral displacement of the pipe.
Angular Corrugated Compensator: Absorbs the angular displacement of the pipe.
Compound Corrugation Compensator: Combines compensation capabilities for axial and lateral displacements.
sleeve compensator(or casing compensator):
Sliding between the inner and outer sleeves is utilized to absorb axial displacement.
Rotary compensator：
Displacement is absorbed by rotational motion between pipes, usually used for larger displacement amounts.
Square compensator：
The pipe is bent into a square-like or U-shaped structure that compensates for thermal expansion and contraction by changes in the geometry of the pipe itself.
Spherical Compensator：
The three-dimensional displacement of the pipe is compensated by the relative rotation of the sphere and the seat ring.
Thrust-free rotary compensator：
Specially designed rotary compensator that eliminates thrust and is suitable for specific applications.
hinged compensator：
Designed to absorb angular displacements in a single plane.
Universal hinge type compensator：
It can absorb the angular displacement in any plane.
Tie Rod Corrugated Compensator：
The deformation of bellows is controlled and constrained by a tie rod system, which is suitable for specific displacement modes.
When selecting a suitable type of compensator, it is necessary to consider the working conditions of the pipeline, such as temperature, pressure, medium properties, displacement, space constraints and other factors, as well as the performance indicators of the compensator, such as compensation amount, elastic stiffness, compressive strength, stability, fatigue strength, etc. In addition, factors such as installation, maintenance, and cost need to be taken into account.