Elaflex’s range of ERV expansion joints are proving their worth in technically challenging applications like liquid CO₂ transfer.
Elaflex has built its reputation on safe, durable connections for refuelling and pipe systems, and its ERV range of rubber expansion joints delivers exactly that: practical performance without unnecessary complexity. Covering sizes from DN25–1000, the ERV range offers a consistent solution that engineers can apply across a wide variety of piping systems, from potable water to liquefied CO₂.
ERV expansion joints have the straightforward but critical job of protecting pipework. As flexible connectors, they absorb thermal expansion, reduce vibration and noise, and handle movement caused by load changes, pumping surges, or structural settling. They also correct installation misalignment and can be inserted as removable pipe sections to simplify inspection and maintenance. In short, they remove stress before it becomes a problem.
Each ERV unit uses a moulded, single-sphere rubber bellows with swivelling metal flanges. This geometry allows for large axial, lateral, and angular movement while keeping reaction forces low and resistance minimal. The result is a joint that moves easily without transferring strain to surrounding equipment.
“For pipe construction, you will need compensators to absorb thermal expansion, to reduce vibration and noise,” Elaflex Pacific Sales Manager Mario Iglic told The Australian Pipeliner.
“Our ERV rubber expansion joints have reliably performed these tasks since 1956. Due to their construction and premium quality, our expansion joints have become international industry standard.”
Material flexibility adds another layer of utility. There are multiple rubber compounds and flange constructions available in the product range. This allows pipeline operators to tailor their expansion joints based on their individual requirements, such as transported media, temperature, chemical resistance, movement limiters, and more. The Elaflex website even has an online ERV configurator, where various bellows, flanges and accessories can be combined, used to help model performance, and saved for future reference.
ERV expansion joints are used all over Australia in a range of areas, including power stations, refineries, water treatment facilities, and fluid transfer applications in freighting.
For larger or bespoke applications, Elaflex can supply expansion joints manufactured by Ditec, which is part of the Elaflex group of companies.
Ditec is one of the very few manufactures in the world that can make expansion joints for round, rectangular, oval, or other designs, for high pressure applications up to DN5000. These expansion joints are hand made in Germany, allowing the manufacturer to alter its standard models to suit custom orders and ensure it produces only premium quality.
Both ERV and Ditec expansion joints are used in carbon capture and storage projects around the world, thanks to their ability to handle extremely low temperatures. Ditec’s larger joints are more suited to carbon capture facilities, whereas the ERV range is ideal for transporting captured CO₂ into trucks and ships, as well as smaller diameter applications within CCS facilities.
Durability underpins the entire ERV range. The joints are constructed with premium quality bellows made exclusively for Elaflex by ContiTech. Both companies have a reputation for reliability and longevity.
“Our ERV expansion joints have excellent longevity – the things just grow old,” Iglic said.
“Due to their superior lifetime, our ERV joints have a lower total cost of ownership than other alternatives on the market.
“They are a trustworthy choice for engineers and purchasers who think in long terms.”
To customise your next ERV, visit ervconfigurator.elaflex.de
