Discussion about Metal Expansion Joints Manufacturing Technology of Preventing Thermal Deformation Pipelines Intended for the Fluids Transport

In this paper, the authors discuss the method of deformations compensation (resulting from the impact of variable temperatures and pressure) in pipelines intended for fluids transport (liquids and gases). Classical methods of compensation through the so-called "natural compensation" and using special devices called expansion joints. In this paper authors present research work on a new type of the metal expansion joints, called bellow-lens expansion joints. The mechanically assisted laser forming method, which was used to manufacture the bellow-lens expansion joints, was presented. The method uses CO2 laser radiation to heat the element from which the expansion joint will be made and the proprietary system consists of an actuator and swivel handle.