Are expansion joints typically required in most piping systems?

Expansion joints are not typically required in every piping system, and their necessity can often be determined by the design and layout of the piping system itself. In many cases, changes in direction or elevation in the piping can accommodate thermal expansion without the need for additional components like expansion joints. As piping heats up or cools down, it expands or contracts; changes in direction, like elbows or bends, can allow for some movement that mitigates the stresses caused by this thermal change.

Moreover, piping systems are usually designed considering material properties and the anticipated temperature variations. For instance, systems made with flexible materials can provide sufficient movement allowance without needing expansion joints. Therefore, it is common for designers to omit expansion joints in favor of using these natural allowances, which can simplify the system and reduce costs. This approach illustrates the versatility of piping design, where adaptable strategies might take precedence over adding additional components strictly for thermal expansion management.