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For Seismic & Thermal Pipe Motion
Specified by consulting engineers and
building owners and installed by contractors for many years,
Seismic "V" Loops solve the problems
of pipe motion caused by thermal pipe growth and the unpredictable
movements associated with seismic activity. Seismic "V" Loops can
perform the functions of large pipe loops or expansion joints, and
in addition, can provide protection and flexibility in mulitiple
planes during potentially catastrophic earthquakes.
Unlike large pipe loops, Seismic "V" Loops take
up a minimum of space, providing pipe motion accommodation solutions
in limited space situations such as indoor piping. The small configuration
of the Seismic "V" Loops are also far less susceptible to the heat
loss that must be dealt with in the case of large pipe loops.
Whereas metal bellows or rubber expansion
joints will impose substantial anchor loads due to the effects of
static pressure thrust, Seismic "V" Loops will
not introduce any thrust loads on the piping system. The unique construction
of the braided V-shaped loop creates a flexible product that does
not expand when pressurized. A welded-on braid acts as a restraining
device, even at extended pressures, yet allows tremendous flexibility.
Anchor loads in regard to the Seismic "V" Loops are
confined to the relatively small spring forces required to deflect
the flexible legs within the loop. Unlike expansion joints, a minimum
of pipe guiding is required.
The standard position for the Seismic "V" Loop is
in a horizontal pipe run, with the elbow pointing straight down.
Positioning is versatile, however, and the loops can be installed
in many other positions such as laying the loop horizontal, positioning
the elbow straight up, or positioning for vertical pipe run. In
installation other than the standard position, EFP can
provide a support eyelet to allow a cable or rod to support the weight
of the loop and its contents.
Seismic "V" Loops can
be used for a variety of fluids and gases. Loops can be constructed
using stainless steel hose and braid with carbon steel end fittings
and elbows, or with bronze hose and braid with copper end fittings
and elbows. End fitting options include flanges, male threads, beveled
weld ends, grooved ends, and copper sweat.
Standard Seismic "V" Loops are
offered for either 2", 3", or
4" of motion from center-line in axial and offset planes. Loops
for even greater motions can be constructed upon request.
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