What is a limitation of the bellows type joint regarding movement?

The bellows type joint is specifically designed to accommodate movement due to thermal expansion and contraction or to absorb vibrations in piping systems. However, it has a limitation in the amount of axial movement it can accommodate. Typically, bellows joints are designed with a certain range of allowable movement, which generally does not exceed a certain length—often around 1-1/2 inches. This limitation can restrict their usage in applications where larger movements are anticipated, making it essential for engineers and designers to account for this when selecting joints for specific projects.

While the joint can effectively manage some movement, knowing its capacity is crucial in ensuring that it performs correctly under operational conditions. Thus, understanding this limitation helps in the proper design and function of plumbing systems involving bellows type joints.