Sudbury International fabric joints: considerations for ductwork interfaces

The Fluid Sealing Association offers great advice on how to use Sudbury Inernational expansion joints.

Manufacturers across Canada rely on Sudbury International Engineered Products Limited for its expansion joints – especially fabric joints. The interface connection of each of these joints is important: the joint flange (mounting frame or integral) and connecting flanges are equally as critical as the material selection. Movement capabilities should also be considered when designing systems for anchors, supports, and guides. The Fluid Sealing Association (FSA) offers the following conditions that users should consider when facilitating the interface design.

Distance between mating duct flanges

According to the FSA, businesses using Sudbury International fabric joints should note that flexible elements should not be used as anchors, supports, or guides. Frames can be designed to accommodate these requirements. Among the wiser interface considerations for using these joints:

• Movement – Six main types of movement can occur: axial compression, axial extension, lateral movement, torsion or rotation, angular deflection or bending, and vibration. Also consider independent, concurrent, and normal operating movement.
• Setback – The distance the joint moves outwards from the gas stream should also be considered when establishing the dimensions of duct-mounting surfaces.
• Breach opening – Consider the distance between mating duct flanges in which the joint will be installed.
• Location of joints – The equipment and the ductwork interfaces should be considered. Pay attention to potential interference from equipment appendages and ductwork stiffeners.
• Frame attachment – Note joint attachment methods, stiffening, metallurgy, flow liners, and frame loads.
• Interface tolerances – The flexible nature of Sudbury International fabric joints reduces the need for tight manufacturing tolerances for flexible elements. Users should define interface tolerances for joints and their frames for connection to ducts or other components.
• Ambient conditions – Expansion joints should not be installed in areas of poor air circulation or high-temperature radiation. Also consider the work environment’s level of pollutants, which may attack the joints’ outer cover or frame materials if the user does not address them at the start.
• Insulation – Take care to insulate around the expansion-joint assembly sufficiently when insulating ductwork. The connection point between the element and mounting frame should allow adequate cooling.

To learn more, contact Sudbury International.

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