IN-LINE PRESSURE BALANCED EXPANSION JOINT

See all Metal Expansion Joints

OVERVIEW

Flexicraft In-Line Pressure Balanced Expansion Joints absorb piping movement without transferring large pressure thrust loads to anchors, structural steel, or equipment nozzles.

Our flagship Universal configuration absorbs both axial thermal movement and multi-directional lateral offset in all three planes (X, Y, and Z), delivering the full 3-axis flexibility of a flexible loop in a compact, straight-line profile that requires zero side clearance. For straight runs requiring only axial compression and extension, a Standard (Axial Only) configuration is also available to minimize overall length and cost.

FEATURES

  • Zero Pressure Thrust Load: Internal line pressure is completely neutralized by balancing bellows and tie rods, eliminating the need for expensive main anchors—only standard intermediate anchors and directional guides are required.

  • True 3-Axis Multi-Directional Flexibility (Universal): Dual-bellows universal construction absorbs large axial travel alongside simultaneous lateral and angular offset in any direction (vertical, horizontal, or skewed).

  • Axial-Only Option (Standard): A streamlined configuration engineered strictly for straight axial expansion where lateral movement is not present.

  • Compact In-Line Footprint: Installs directly on the pipe centerline, making it ideal for narrow chases, congested pipe racks, and utility tunnels where traditional U-loops cannot fit.

SPECIFICATIONS & APPLICATIONS

  • Applications: Data Center and other cooling pipes, steam, chilled water, and hot water/liquid distribution lines; building expansion / seismic joint crossings; and pump/chiller nozzle connections with low allowable loads.

  • Sizes & Pressures: Available in nominal pipe sizes normally 12" through 48"+ for applications up to 300+ psi.

  • Materials & Ends: Multi-ply stainless steel bellows (high-nickel alloys available) with 150#/300# ANSI flanges, butt weld ends, or grooved connections.

RELATED ZERO-THRUST DESIGNS

If your routing allows for an offset pipe geometry rather than a straight in-line run, see our Tied Universal Loops. They also absorb multi-plane thermal and seismic movements with zero pressure thrust load, but extend outward into the chase or room where lateral clearance is available.