Technical Datasheet -- Universal Expansion Joint -- Hinged / Gimbal SS321

Universal Expansion Joint -- Hinged / Gimbal SS321

Multi-Plane Angular Expansion Joint with Hinge or Gimbal Hardware for High-Temperature Piping

Document No.SV-DS-EXP-004

RevisionRev A

DateMay 2026

ManufacturerSupreme Valves India, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India

This datasheet covers universal expansion joints with two SS321 bellows, centre pipe, and hinge or gimbal hardware for absorbing large angular movements in high-temperature steam, exhaust, and flue gas piping.

Technical Specifications

Parameter	Specification
Size Range	DN100 to DN2000 (4" to 80")
Pressure Rating	PN10 / PN16 / PN25 / PN40 / Class 150 / Class 300
Bellows Material	SS321 multi-ply hydroformed bellows, 2 to 6 plies
Hardware Material	Carbon steel or SS321 hinge pins, gimbal rings, and tie rods
Temperature Range	-200°C to +600°C (SS321 limit)
Movement Capability	Angular per bellows: up to 15° (hinge) or 10° (gimbal); combined angular: up to 30°
End Connections	Flanged ASME B16.5 / BS EN 1092-1 or butt weld ends
Hardware Type	Hinge (single-plane) or gimbal (multi-plane) with tie rods
Features	Multi-ply SS321, hinge or gimbal, tie rods absorb thrust, internal liner optional
Accessories	Internal liner, external shroud, pre-set tabs, insulation pillows

Materials of Construction

Component	Material
Bellows	SS321 multi-ply hydroformed bellows, 2 to 6 plies, solution annealed, dye-penetrant tested
Centre Pipe	SS321 or carbon steel centre spool piece connecting two bellows assemblies
End Pieces	Carbon steel or SS321 pipe sections with weld preparation or machined flange faces
Hinge Hardware	Carbon steel or SS321 hinge plates, pins, and bushings for single-plane angular movement
Gimbal Hardware	Carbon steel or SS321 gimbal rings and pins for multi-plane angular movement
Tie Rods	Carbon steel or SS321 threaded tie rods with double nuts and washers to absorb pressure thrust
Internal Liner	SS321 thin-wall liner with drain holes for high-velocity or particulate-laden gas streams
External Cover	SS304 or carbon steel protective shroud for personnel protection and insulation retention

Testing & Inspection

Test	Requirement
Test Standard	Hydrostatic 1.5x PN; helium leak test on bellows; angular movement witness test
Certification	CE, PED, ISO 9001

Applicable Standards

Standard	Description
Design Standard	ISO 10628 / BS 6129 / EJMA Standards

Notes

Hinge expansion joints must be installed with hinge axis perpendicular to the plane of intended angular movement; gimbal joints allow any plane.
Tie rods must be pre-tensioned during installation to absorb pressure thrust; do not loosen or remove tie rods during operation.
For high-velocity steam or gas with particulate, specify internal liner to prevent bellows erosion and flow-induced vibration.
Bellows fatigue life depends on angular movement per convolution; specify total expected angular movement and design temperature at order.
Pre-set tabs may be used to position bellows at neutral angle during installation; remove after piping is complete and system is pressurised.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which standards does the Universal Expansion Joint -- Hinged / Gimbal SS321 comply with?

The Universal Expansion Joint -- Hinged / Gimbal SS321 is designed, manufactured, and tested in accordance with applicable API / ASME / BS / ISO international standards. Compliance documentation and Material Test Certificates (EN 10204 3.1) are provided with every order.

What materials of construction are available for the Universal Expansion Joint -- Hinged / Gimbal SS321?

Standard construction is carbon steel, stainless steel (CF8 / CF8M), and special alloy grades. Alternative and upgraded grades -- Duplex, Super Duplex, Inconel, Monel, Hastelloy, and NACE MR0175 trims for sour service -- are available on request.

What sizes and pressure ratings does the Universal Expansion Joint -- Hinged / Gimbal SS321 cover?

It is offered in a range of sizes as per the technical specification with standard ANSI / ASME pressure classes (PN ratings on request). End connections include flanged (RF / RTJ), butt-weld, socket-weld, and screwed ends as per specification.

Can Supreme Valves supply the Universal Expansion Joint -- Hinged / Gimbal SS321 for export to Saudi Arabia and the Middle East?

Yes. Supreme Valves India is an established exporter of industrial valves to Saudi Arabia (KSA), the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, Bahrain, and across the Gulf. We provide sea-worthy export packing, EN 10204 3.1 / 3.2 certification, certificate of origin, and support for SABER / SASO conformity on KSA shipments.

What testing and certification is provided with the Universal Expansion Joint -- Hinged / Gimbal SS321?

Every valve undergoes hydrostatic shell and seat testing per API 598 / ISO 5208. Documentation includes EN 10204 3.1 MTC (3.2 on request), NDT reports, and fire-safe (API 607) or NACE MR0175 certification where applicable. Third-party inspection by TÜV, SGS, Bureau Veritas, or Lloyd's Register can be arranged.

What is the minimum order quantity and lead time for the Universal Expansion Joint -- Hinged / Gimbal SS321?

Order quantities are flexible -- from single units for stocked items to bulk volumes for project requirements. Lead time depends on size, material, and quantity; please contact our team with your specification for a firm delivery schedule and quotation.

Supreme Valves India