Rubber expansion joints (rubber joints) are widely used in piping systems to absorb vibration, compensate for displacement, and reduce noise. However, during use, various problems may occur that affect their performance and service life. This article will analyze common issues of rubber expansion joints in detail and provide professional solutions to help you optimize system operation and extend the service life of the joints.
1. Cracking or Splitting of Rubber Joints
Causes
•Ozone or UV aging: Long-term exposure to outdoor or ozone environments can cause rubber to harden and crack.
•Excessive high or low temperature: Exceeding the material’s tolerance range (e.g., EPDM is heat resistant, but NBR ages easily at high temperature).
•Chemical corrosion: Contact with incompatible media such as oils, strong acids, or strong alkalis.
Solutions
•Replace with materials with better weather resistance (e.g., EPDM for outdoor use, FKM for chemical resistance).
•Add protective covers to avoid direct sunlight or ozone exposure.
•Check media compatibility to ensure rubber material matches the fluid.
2. Leakage or Burst of Rubber Joints
Causes
•Overpressure operation: Operating pressure exceeds the rated working pressure of the rubber joint.
•Improper installation: Flange bolts are over-tightened or misaligned, causing local stress concentration.
•Internal corrosion: Presence of abrasive particles (such as mud or metal debris) in the medium.
Solutions
•Choose higher pressure rating joints (e.g., with reinforced fabric layers).
•Correct installation: Use diagonal tightening method to ensure even flange stress.
•Install filters to prevent particle wear on the liner.
3. Deformation of Rubber Joints (Bulging or Collapse)
Causes
•Collapse under vacuum: Rubber joints not designed for negative pressure systems.
•Excessive stretch or compression: Exceeding allowable displacement.
•Softening at high temperature: Some rubbers (like NBR) soften and lose support at high temperature.
Solutions
•Use vacuum type joints with metal rings (such as KXT-F type).
•Check displacement, ensure it is within allowable range (axial, lateral, angular).
•Switch to heat resistant materials (such as silicone or fluororubber).
4. Noise or Vibration Transmission of Rubber Joints
Causes
•Damping effect reduction: Rubber hardening or internal fabric damage.
•System resonance: Pipeline vibration frequency close to joint’s natural frequency.
Solutions
•Replace with high-elasticity rubber joints (e.g., natural rubber NR has better damping).
•Add vibration dampers to disperse energy.
•Check pipeline fixation to avoid resonance.
5. Leakage at Flange Connection
Causes
•Uneven sealing surface: Corroded flange or damaged gasket.
•Loose bolts: Fasteners fail due to long-term vibration.
Solutions
•Use corrosion-resistant flanges (such as stainless steel or galvanized).
•Use anti-loosening bolts (such as double nuts or thread-lock adhesive).
•Regular maintenance and inspection to ensure sealing.
6. Inner Layer Peeling or Blistering of Rubber Joints
Causes
•Medium penetration: Some chemicals (such as solvents) penetrate and delaminate rubber.
•Manufacturing defects: Improper vulcanization causing poor adhesion.
Solutions
•Choose anti-permeation materials (such as PTFE lined rubber joints).
•Contact supplier to verify if it’s a quality issue.
Preventive Maintenance Recommendations
1.Regular inspections (every 3-6 months): Check for cracks, deformation, or leaks.
2.Record operating parameters (pressure, temperature, medium) to ensure use within limits.
3.Keep spare joints in stock to avoid production interruptions.
Conclusion
Problems with rubber expansion joints are often caused by wrong selection, improper installation, or insufficient maintenance. By choosing the right materials, installing correctly, and performing regular maintenance, the service life can be significantly extended. For further technical support, please contact a professional supplier!
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