Design & Installation of Expansion Joints

[tiror]

While we design & install metallic expansion joints within the piping & equipment, does the component OD change upon contraction & expansion - the axial movement?

[irish]

Yes there are changes in component /bellow OD and they are considered especially when:
Bellows are installed inside sleeves or guides.
There is insulation clearance.
Bellows are inside pressure vessel annular spaces.
External covers or shrouds are very close to the convolutions.

[tiror]

And that happens in all the cases, irish no matter what kind of design it is?