Key Considerations for Negative Pressure:
Vacuum Rating: Not all rubber expansion joints are designed to withstand vacuum conditions. Standard rubber expansion joints can collapse under negative pressure. You must select a rubber expansion joint with a specific vacuum rating that meets or exceeds the maximum negative pressure expected in your pipeline.
Reinforcement (Vacuum Rings): To prevent collapse, rubber expansion joints intended for vacuum service often incorporate internal metal reinforcement, such as vacuum rings or supporting spirals. These help maintain the shape of the bellows under vacuum.
Type and Diameter: The vacuum resistance of a rubber expansion joint can depend on its type (e.g., single arch, multiple arch) and its diameter. Larger diameter joints are generally more susceptible to collapse under vacuum and may require more robust reinforcement.
Installation: Proper installation is crucial. The manufacturer's instructions should be followed carefully, especially regarding any requirements for vacuum support or limit rods. Installing a joint in an extended position in a vacuum application can be problematic.
Operating Conditions: Consider the degree and duration of the negative pressure. Intermittent or partial vacuum might be acceptable for some joints, while a continuous or deep vacuum will require a specifically designed and rated product.
Manufacturer Consultation: It is highly recommended to consult with the rubber expansion joint manufacturer. Provide them with the specific negative pressure requirements of your pipeline. They can recommend the appropriate type and specification of rubber expansion joint for your application.
In summary, using rubber expansion joints in a negative pressure pipeline is possible.
Key Considerations for Negative Pressure:
Vacuum Rating: Not all rubber expansion joints are designed to withstand vacuum conditions. Standard rubber expansion joints can collapse under negative pressure. You must select a rubber expansion joint with a specific vacuum rating that meets or exceeds the maximum negative pressure expected in your pipeline.
Reinforcement (Vacuum Rings): To prevent collapse, rubber expansion joints intended for vacuum service often incorporate internal metal reinforcement, such as vacuum rings or supporting spirals. These help maintain the shape of the bellows under vacuum.
Type and Diameter: The vacuum resistance of a rubber expansion joint can depend on its type (e.g., single arch, multiple arch) and its diameter. Larger diameter joints are generally more susceptible to collapse under vacuum and may require more robust reinforcement.
Installation: Proper installation is crucial. The manufacturer's instructions should be followed carefully, especially regarding any requirements for vacuum support or limit rods. Installing a joint in an extended position in a vacuum application can be problematic.
Operating Conditions: Consider the degree and duration of the negative pressure. Intermittent or partial vacuum might be acceptable for some joints, while a continuous or deep vacuum will require a specifically designed and rated product.
Manufacturer Consultation: It is highly recommended to consult with the rubber expansion joint manufacturer. Provide them with the specific negative pressure requirements of your pipeline. They can recommend the appropriate type and specification of rubber expansion joint for your application.
In summary, using rubber expansion joints in a negative pressure pipeline is possible.