INSTALLATION 1 - ON PIPE INSTALLATIONS OR PUMP INSTALLATIONS - ANCHOR ALL SYSTEMS

The rubber expansion joints will extend in length when under pressure conditions unless adequately

restrained by anchors and guides, to ensure the pipe line is free from sag or pressure deflection. These

pressure thrust forces can very substantial at pressures above 2 bar. Do not use the expansion joint as a pipe

support. Control rod assemblies are strictly required when the movement / pressure exceeds the

permissible limits (see product datasheets). Anchor direct to pipe not around lagging.

VIP Rubber Bellows: Key Factors For Installation

INSTALLATION 3

Insert the bolts in the flanges with the heads toward the joints. Tighten the bolts in opposite pairs. The bolts

and nuts should be tightened crosswise with bolting pressure evenly distributed.

INSTALLATION 2

If using control rod assemblies, please ensure they are pre-set at the maximum allowable expansion and / or

contraction of the joint during commissioning or operating. This is strictly recommended for unanchored /

unsupported systems and also spring mounted pumps or equipment. Control rod joints must be strictly used

when the movement / pressure exceeds the permissible limit. (For standard tied units see Installation 11.)

INSTALLATION 4

The use of the right connecting flange is important when fixing the rubber joints. The flange provides a safe

connection and prevents leakage as well as turbulence (pressure loss). The connecting flange should cover a

maximum of the seating surface of the joint.

INSTALLATION 5

The bellows should be fitted in to the neutral joint length as below, and should not be extended or used for

pipe misalignment.

INSTALLATION 6

Protruded sharp pipe ends should be strictly avoided as it causes damage on the joint contact surface.

INSTALLATION 7

As the joint is made of rubber, heat should strictly be avoided during installation. Particular care should be

taken against sparks from welding, grinding, etc near the point of joint installation.

INSTALLATION 8

Particular care should be taken to avoid the joint’s direct exposure to sunlight in case of outdoor piping.

INSTALLATION 9

Before fixing the joint, make sure the rubber joint / flange surface is cleared from welding / threading

debris, oil, paint, etc. Particular care should be taken to ensure the storage area is kept clean.

INSTALLATION 10

Do not install joints on the rubber to rubber surface, especially if using a wafer pattern butterfly valve. The

correct installation should be on rubber to metal surface. Ensure the butterfly valve plate does not come into

contact with the rubber bellows inner arch when fully opening and closing the valve. A spool piece is

recommended between the valve and rubber bellows.

INSTALLATION 11

On all TIED rubber and metallic Pump Connectors the pump connectors should be fitted at the (Neutral)

supplied length. When fitted and prior to the pumps starting the tie bar nuts should be backed off slightly and

then hand tightened to the steel outer washers located immediately on top of the rubber or steel top hat

washers. Alternatively if Nyloc nuts have been provided on the tie bars – tighten with spanners until touching

the outer steel washers located immediately on top of the rubber or steel top hat washers. After

commissioning, return to the tied units and ensure the nuts remain hand tight, or nuts are touching the steel

washers).