Whenever there is a need for moveable pipe connections, swivel joints are one of the solutions. They allow to move or rotate one part/component of the system relative to the other. This slow rotational movement provides very good flexibility to the piping system. In this article, we will learn about the basics of swivel joints, their applications, types, features, working, and selection.
Please enable JavaScript
Types of Pipes | Classification of Pipes (PDF)Types of Pipe fittings and Pipe Bra...
Please enable JavaScript
Types of Pipe fittings and Pipe Branch ConnectionsWhat is a Swivel Joint?A swivel joint is a precision-machined flexible piping component installed between pipes, hoses, or equipment. Their design allows one component of the system to move/rotate relative to the other. Industrial swivel joints are designed to work for an extensive temperature and pressure range. They have to ability to absorb external forces and generated stresses. Properly designed swivel joints have the ability to allow 360-degree rotation in 1, 2, or 3 planes.
Fig. 1: Typical Swivel Joint FittingsApplications of Swivel JointsSwivel joints are used in various industries including
Swivel joints are manufactured from a range of materials depending on application requirements. Some of the common swivel joint materials are:
The main characteristics of swivel joints are:
Swivel joints are usually made up of two main components; the sleeve and the body. They are locked in place by one or more ball-bearing races. These ball-bearing races keep the body and swivel sleeve properly aligned to allow the swivel to have a rotary motion around its axis. As the two parts of the swivel can rotate, the piping system components connected to the two ends of the swivel will also rotate freely and independently around the swivel’s axis. To have multiple axes of rotation, multiple swivels are installed with different orientations. This allows the system more freedom of movement between the sides of a fluid conveyance system. Different types of lubricants can be used to lubricate the bearing races.
The actual mechanical work is performed by the swivel’s ball bearings. However, the most important part of the swivel joint is the liquid-tight pressure seal that retains the pressurized working fluid. Pressure seals can be made from thermoplastics or elastomers like PRFE, FKM, Kalrez, fluoroelastomer, Chemraz, and nitrile rubber. The properties of these seal material options make them suitable for service with various fluids over a range of operating temperatures.
Types of Swivel JointsSwivel joints can be categorized based on various parameters as mentioned below:
Depending on the end connection, there are three types of swivel joints
Depending on the working component parts, swivel joints can be of three types:
Depending on the flow paths, there are basically three types of swivel joints:
Depending on the axis of rotation, swivel joints are available in various styles which vary from manufacturer to manufacturer.
Selection of Swivel JointThere are various parameters that must be considered for selecting a swivel joint for an application. Some of these factors are:
Proper specification of swivel joint internal components is very important to reduce leaking possibilities. All parts must be designed based on recommended design guidelines.
If you have any questions on chiksan swivel joint. We will give the professional answers to your questions.