What Is a Rubber Joint?
A rubber joint is a special engineered product that is designed to isolate vibration and relieve the pressure in piping systems. It is used in industrial applications like power generation and wastewater disposal. It is available in different sizes, designs and specifications. It is a flexible and reliable connector. It is also resistant to abrasion and erosion.
A rubber joint is composed of an inner tube and a cover made of natural or synthetic rubber. The cover protects the expansion joint from the outside, and the tube stretches through the bore and to the outside edges of the flanges. The cover can be designed to resist sunlight, oils, chemicals and acid fumes. It is important to select an elastomer that is suited for the application.
A rubber joint is usually reinforced with metal, such as wire or solid rings. A metal reinforcement in the body of the joint allows it to absorb the effects of higher pressure. It can also provide rigidity for vacuum service. Typically, the wall thickness of the joint ranges from 0.15 to 2mm. If a joint will be exposed to full vacuum, an internal vacuum ring may be required. The joint should not be installed in the extended position, as the total force will be applied to the spring.
The design of the rubber joint should be in accordance with ASTM F1123. It is important to provide appropriate information to the manufacturer about the joint’s intended use. For example, if the joint is to be installed in the neutral position, the test pressure should not exceed 1.5 times the working pressure. The joint’s stiffness can be affected by the structural parameters, including the inclination angle, the rubber joint thickness of the material and the rubber-damping characteristics. The relative impedance of the joint can be as low as 1.0 and as high as 500. The joint’s relative impedance is calculated by subtracting the axial displacement, angular displacement, and lateral movement from the sum of the individual movements.
A rubber joint is used in several types of piping system, and it is often used in the ship building, air conditioning, heating and pharmaceutical industries. It is easy to install and maintain. It is also resistant to abrasion, corrosion and erosion. However, its durability and reliability can be compromised when it is subjected to high pressure, temperature or plasticization.
A rubber joint can be designed to operate in a wide variety of conditions, and is suitable for hundreds of applications in the water, chemical, pharmaceutical, and food industries. It is also a good choice for noise control. It is also easy to remove. It can be used in multiple arches, and it can be manufactured to a diameter of 10 feet or more.
A rubber joint is commonly used in sewage treatment and wastewater disposal systems, as well as in the food and pulp & paper industry. It is easy to install, maintenance free, and adaptable to many different situations. Unlike other joints, it is less likely to fail because it is more able to withstand higher pressures.