A universal hinge expansion joint consist of a universal bellow with two pairs of hinges. This type of expansion joint is used to accommodate large amount of lateral deflection in one plane. By providing a special arrangement of hinge box, the universal hinge expansion joint can also accommodate angular movement and lateral deflection in more than one plane.
Advantages
• Lateral motion in one/or more than one plane. • Eliminates pressure thrust as it is restrained by the hinge pins. • Prevents torsional movement of the expansion joint. • Eliminates requirement of the main anchors. • Requires minimum guiding supports. • Reduces forces on the piping arrangement. • Designed to restrain extraneous forces like wind loads, dead loads, weight of machinery, etc. • Movement can be controlled. • Angular deflection, if designed.