Viton expansion joints are a specialized type of flexible connector made from Viton®, a brand name for a high-performance fluoropolymer elastomer (FKM) developed by DuPont. They are designed to absorb thermal expansion, vibration, and movement in piping systems while providing exceptional chemical resistance. A properly designed expansion joint made using Viton™ fluoroelastomers is known for retaining its properties. They are capable of working for a long span, minimising the requirement for repair and maintenance. While there are many types of rubber available for making expansion joints, Viton™ high-performance fluoroelastomers can be designed for the most demanding applications.
Key Features of Viton Expansion Joints
- Chemical Resistance
Viton’s Expansion Joints are highly resistant to numerous chemicals, including acids, alkalines, fuels, oils, and solvents. Therefore, they are ideal for harsh industrial environments such as oil refineries, chemical processing plants and similar facilities. Also, due to Viton’s chemical stability, it provides long-term performance without swelling, softening or degradation.
- Superior High Temperature Resistance
Viton can handle continuous service temperatures up to 200° C (392° F) and a maximum of 250° C (482° F) for short periods of time. Therefore, Viton’s expansion joints are an excellent choice for use in hot liquid service applications and or steam lines.
- Low Compression Set
The expansion joints will hold their original shape and elasticity under sustained compression. This property creates the ability to maintain a very tight seal and will significantly reduce the chance of leak occurrence throughout the life of the expansion joint. Therefore, these joints will greatly enhance reliability and minimise maintenance coupled with increased reliability.
- Flexible and Great Vibration Dampening Abilities
Viton’s expansion joints have the ability to accommodate axial (in and out), lateral (side to side), and angular (up and down) movements in the pipelines, which helps reduce the stress placed on equipment, prevent equipment from suffering fatigue failure, and dampen out vibrations from pumps, compressors, and other related machinery.
- Excellent Ozone and Weather Resistance
Viton expansion joints provide excellent resistance to ozone, UV radiation, and weathering. These properties make these joints ideal for use in outdoor and exposed environments without significant deterioration
- Customized
Viton expansion joints can be manufactured in a variety of combinations, such as single or double expanded techniques. They are available in a variety of shapes and can be reinforced with synthetic or metal fibres for enhanced strength.
Applications of Viton Expansion Joints
Viton expansion joints provide exceptional chemical & heat resistance. Therefore, they are utilised in numerous industries, including the following:
- Chemical & Petrochemical – Viton expansion joints provide excellent performance for pipelines transporting aggressive chemicals (i.e., strong acids, solvents). These expansion joints can resist chemical attacks, and therefore, there is little risk of leaks & it helps prevent corrosion from occurring & damaging pipes.
- Oil & Gas – In the oil & gas industry, Viton expansion joints can be utilised in oil/fuel/hydrocarbon pipelines that undergo frequent temperature fluctuations & are regularly exposed to chemicals. These expansion joints help in relieving stress upon flanges and equipment during thermal cycling.
- Food processing & Pharmaceutical industry: Viton expansion joints are utilized in both pharmaceuticals and food processing due to their ability to endure harsh chemicals while maintaining the most hygienic conditions possible around the product(s)/systems. In addition, Viton is chemically inert and cannot cause any contamination to sensitive fluids.
- Oilers & Heat Exchangers: Due to Viton’s capability of withstanding high temperatures, Viton is also suitable for use as hot water and steam line applications, including in boiler systems, heat exchangers, and turbine systems.
- Marine & Offshore Applications: Viton is also a good choice for marine and offshore applications, as it has a high resistance to ozone, salt, and UV radiation. Therefore, Viton is commonly used in shipbuilding, marine platforms, and various other marine applications.
Viton expansion joints are widely utilized in both automotives/aerospace for their use in exhaust systems, fuel lines, and hydraulic applications within the industry. In automotive/aerospace use, Viton can withstand exposure to high temperatures, vibration, and chemicals at the same time
Uses and Benefits
- Lowering The Chance Of Leaks: Their excellent sealing properties will minimise any chance of fluids leaking through high-pressure and/or chemically aggressive applications.
- Reduced Maintenance: Their long service life and low rate of wear allow for less frequent replacement of joints.
- Reduced Noise and Vibration: These joints dampen mechanical vibration, which reduces noise and protects connected equipment.
- Flexible Installation: Available in a variety of different configurations to accommodate special installations due to limited space or complex piping layouts.
Looking for custom expansion joints capable of withstanding harsh environments
Choose Viton expansion joints engineered for superior chemical and high-temperature resistance. Whether you require a standard expansion joint, durable fluoropolymer expansion joints, precision-built PTFE expansion joints, or heavy-duty fabric expansion joints, Advanced Flexible Systems Inc. specialise in delivering custom solutions built to last. Get in touch with our experts and let our team help you select the right joint for your applications.
