PTFE Expansion Joints & Flex Connectors

Unisource is the only manufacturer that builds expansion joints and connectors that combine PTFE linings with all of the other material types of expansion joints–rubber, metal bellows, flexible metal hose, fabric, and even all-PTFE. PTFE and FEP are an excellent lining material for expansion joints and flex connectors when the application calls for corrosion-resistance, high-purity, temperature extremes, or combinations of these conditions. Rubber arch-type expansion joints with fabric and steel reinforcing meant for pressure piping can be built using PTFE liners with arch. Metallic bellows expansion can be offered with a special corrosion-resistant fluorplastic liners that follows the contours of the corrugations. High pressure flexible metal hose is offered with a PTFE smooth-bore liner that extends over the wetted end fitting surface so that all wetted surfaces are coated. Our “Tef-Flex” convoluted PTFE bellows are a common solution when an all PTFE expansion joint or flex coupling is needed at pump connections or within a pipe line. For high-pressure flue gas applications, we offer our composite fabric expansion joints, combining high-temperature fabric reinforcing with corrosion-resistant fluoroplastic. Access our PTFE & FEP Hose Product web section for information on that style of connector.

Tef-Flex Convoluted PTFE Bellows

Tef-Flex Style 112A and 113A Convoluted PTFE Bellows Expansion Joints and Flexible Couplings offer the best combination of low spring-rate flexibility, temperature resistance, and the chemical inert properties of PTFE material. The “Tef-Flex” Style 112A 2-Convolute Flexible Coupling, and Style 113A 3-Convolute Expansion Joint were designed to meet the needs of the HVAC, high-technology, and chemical/petrochemical industries.

The construction of the “Tef-Flex” connector utilizes 2, 3, or even 5 molded convolutions of white PTFE. These convolutions are reinforced with metallic rings between the bellows for pressure rating and stability. Standard galvanized ductile iron backing flanges are protected by the lip of the PTFE bellows, so that all wetted surfaces are PTFE. Steel limit rods are factory installed. Additional convolutions provide greater movement capability. Style 112(316)A and 113(316)A include Type 316 stainless steel backing flanges and hardware. Options include high purity cleaning and packaging. “Tef-Flex” expansion joints can also be manufactured in machined, accordion style.

The “Tel-Flex” bellows connectors are versatile and will:

  • absorb pipe movements and stress;
  • isolate mechanical vibration;
  • reduce system noise;
  • protect against surge forces.

“Tef-Flex” connectors are suitable for connection to metallic piping or plastic lined metallic piping.

Unisource Tef-Flex PTFE Expansion Joint and Flex Coupling

Style 112A 2-Convolute PTFE Flex Coupling

Tef-Flex Style 112A and 113A Convoluted PTFE Bellows Expansion Joints and Flexible Couplings offer the best combination of low spring-rate flexibility, temperature resistance, and the chemical inert properties of PTFE material. The “Tef-Flex” Style 112A 2-Convolute Flexible Coupling, and Style 113A 3-Convolute Expansion Joint were designed to meet the needs of the HVAC, high-technology, and chemical/petrochemical industries.

The construction of the “Tef-Flex” connector utilizes 2, 3, or even 5 molded convolutions of white PTFE. These convolutions are reinforced with metallic rings between the bellows for pressure rating and stability. Standard galvanized ductile iron backing flanges are protected by the lip of the PTFE bellows, so that all wetted surfaces are PTFE. Steel limit rods are factory installed. Additional convolutions provide greater movement capability. Style 112(316)A and 113(316)A include Type 316 stainless steel backing flanges and hardware. Options include high purity cleaning and packaging. “Tef-Flex” expansion joints can also be manufactured in machined, accordion style.

Sizes
Bellows Material
Flange Material
Rod Material
Working Pressure (PSIG)
Allowable Movements
No. of Conv
Options
1” to 12″ PTFE (all wetted surfaces) Galvanized ductile iron Plated carbon steel 150 to 190 (varies by temperature) Axial, angular, and lateral offset 2 316 SS hardware, high-purity cleaning.

Unisource Series 112A 2-Convolute PTFE Flex Coupling

Style 113A 3-Convolute PTFE Expansion Joint

Tef-Flex Style 113A Convoluted PTFE Bellows Expansion Joints offer the best combination of low spring-rate flexibility, temperature resistance, and the chemical inert properties of PTFE material. The “Tef-Flex” Style 113A 3-Convolute Expansion Joints were designed to meet the needs of the HVAC, high-technology, and chemical/petrochemical industries. The “Tef-Flex” bellows connectors are versatile and will 1) absorb pipe movements and stress; 2) isolate mechanical vibration; 3) reduce system noise; 4) protect against surge forces. “Tef-Flex” connectors are suitable for connection to metallic piping or plastic lined metallic piping.

The construction of the 113A “Tef-Flex” connector utilizes two molded convolutions of white PTFE. These convolutions are reinforced with metallic rings between the bellows for pressure rating and stability. Standard galvanized ductile iron backing flanges are protected by the lip of the PTFE bellows, so that all wetted surfaces are PTFE. Steel limit rods are factory installed. Additional convolutions provide greater movement capability. Style 113(316)A include Type 316 stainless steel backing flanges and hardware. Options include high purity cleaning and packaging. “Tef-Flex.”

 Sizes
 Bellows Material
 Flange Material
Rod Material
Working Pressure (PSIG)
Max. Travel (In)
Max. Misalignment (In)
Options

1”

 Thru

12″

PTFE (all wetted surfaces) Galvanized ductile iron Plated carbon steel 150 to 190

(Varies by temperature)

1/2” to 1-1/8″ Depending on size 1/4” to 5/8″ Depending on size 316 SS hardware, high-purity cleaning

Unisource Series 113A 3-Convolute PTFE Flex Coupling

Ultralon PTFE Lined Metal Bellows

The unique Unisource “Ultralon” expansion joint combines the properties of metal and fluoroplastics into the most advanced, versatile expansion joint on the market today. Ultralon was designed to meet the process piping needs of the high-technology, chemical/petrochemical, power generation, pulp and paper, and other demanding needs. The Ultralon expansion joint is versatile and will:

  • Absorb pipe movements and stress
  • Isolate mechanical vibration
  • Reduce system noise
  • Protect against surge forces

Ultralon is a problem solving product in many high temperature applications. Unlike ordinary solid PTFE or elastomeric joints, should up-set conditions exceeding 500 °F occur, Ultralon will maintain its pressure carrying capacity up to 1200°F—long enough for system shut-down and replacement.

The construction of the Ultralon expansion joint utilizes a stainless steel, Inconel, Monel, or Hastelloy bellows in combination with a PTFE lining formed into the bellows during manufacture. Ultralon expansion joints can offer working temperatures from -300°F to +400°F, and a choice of bellows rated for working pressures of 50, 150, or 300 psi. Gimbal, hinged, dual externally pressurized, and pressure balanced styles are construction options. Flanges are available in carbon steel, stainless steel, or Teflon coated. Ultralon expansion joints can be manufactured in custom overall lengths and in custom movement capabilities. Consult Unisource for information on the special construction you need for your application.

PTFE lined expansion Joint

Series 1501T PTFE Lined Rubber Expansion Joint

Ideal for connection to chemical handling equipment or high-purity applications, Series 1501TN expansion joints combine the properties of a rubber spool-type single arch product with the chemical resistance and high purity characteristics of PTFE. This product begins with a white PTFE arch type liner. Rubber is hand-wrapped around the liner, polyester reinforcing is added, and a rubber cover is wrapped and duck and rubber flanges are added. The PTFE liner is flared over the flanges so that all wetted surfaces are PTFE. When required, the cover can be coated with a yellow Hypalon coating for added environmental protection and to create a non-marking exterior. Permanent embossed branding lists serial number and cure date. Retaining rings and control units are available in either plated carbon steel or stainless steel. Our “Clean-Pak” option provides ultra-high purity cleaning and packaging and is widely accepted in the microprocessing industry for RODI applications.

Tube & Cover Neoprene, EPDM, Nitrile, Chlorobutyl or Hyapalon
Reinforcement Polyester fabric. Aramid fiber available upon request for high pressure/temperature applications
Pressure Range 160 PSIG to 225 PSIG (Depending on size)
Sizes 1″ through 16″
Liner White PTFE
teflon lined rubber expansion joint
Block
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