WhoshouldIsee Tracks Expansion Joints for an Ammonia Plant - Teconnex Bellows

Expansion Joints for an Ammonia Plant

Sector: Chemical Manufacturing

Background

Ammonia production involves high temperatures and pressures. To stay profitable, global products must improve energy efficiency wherever possible. 

One of the world’s largest heat exchange manufacturers asked us to recommend expansion joints for a new system at an ammonia plant in Indonesia. The system would operate at 300°C and 52 bar pressure.

Challenge

We needed to design and supply a highly durable expansion joint that could handle extreme conditions (300°C and 52 bar), typical of an ammonia plant. The solution needed to be reliable, long-lasting and safe for this critical replacement system. 

Solution

Bellows Technology provided a custom-engineered product:

  • Custom Design: We designed a single axial expansion joint with an 800 nominal bore (NB) to match the system’s needs. 
  • Reinforced Membrane: An equalising ring was added to strengthen the membrane. This was critical to ensure the joint could safely handle the high pressure.

Technical Data

  • Type: Single Reinforced Axial Expansion Joint
  • Media: Gas
  • Quantity: 1
  • Design Temperature: 300°C
  • Cycle Life: > 5000 Cycles
  • Material: 304 Stainless Steel
  • Testing: Full NDT (Non-Destructive Testing)
  • Pressure: 52 Bar

Results

The custom-designed, reinforced expansion joint from Bellows Technology supports the safe and efficient running of the ammonia plant’s new system. It also enhances energy efficiency and reliability, both of which are crucial factors in achieving long-term profitability.