Flexible pipe inserts – principles of selection and operation
The first flexible insert appeared in Taiwan, and its main purpose was a simple solution to problems caused by frequent breakdowns of water pipes. We are talking about ruptures that occurred after laying the pipeline in railway bridges. This led to an undesirable sagging of the whole bridge, which simply could not withstand the mass of the train moving along it. Thus, flexible inserts for heating and water supply systems appeared due to the improvement of bridge and railway line construction technologies in Taiwan. The first such product was shown to the world in 1979.
Types of flexible inserts
In total, there are three main types of flexible inserts, which are:
- threaded;
- flanged;
- combined (with thread and flange).
The characteristic features of the first two types are inherent in the third, so next we will consider threaded and flanged flexible inserts.
Features of threaded and flanged inserts
A distinctive feature of the threaded insert is the principle of connection to the water supply system. It is similar to connecting straight shut-off valves of the threaded type. The final reference point of the dimensions is DN100, while inserts of diameters up to DN50 are observed. The elements differ from the flanged ones in external parameters, although the basic design properties are almost identical in both varieties.
The insert is divided into two main components – a thread (or flange) and an elastic element. By the way, it is completely incorrect to call these products "rubber", since not only rubber, but also other flexible materials can be used as an elastic component.
There is such a thing as galvanized inserts. They are a product made of two-layer metal by superimposing one layer on another. Due to the galvanization of the surface, the outer layer of the element is strengthened, protection from the effects of a chemically aggressive environment is increased. This leads to an improvement in the aesthetic qualities of the inserts. Nickel, zinc, chromium or copper can be used for modernization.