How do we compensate for thermal expansion /contraction in the construction of railway tracks?
How do we compensate for thermal expansion /contraction in the construction of steel bridges?
How do we compensate for thermal expansion /contraction in the construction of metal pipes for carrying steam?
Expansion and contraction
To compensate for thermal expansion and contraction in the construction of railway tracks, steel rails are provided with gaps at regular intervals called expansion joints. These expansion joints allow the rails to expand or contract due to temperature changes without putting excessive stress on the track structure. The expansion joints have movable components that can accommodate the changes in length.
For steel bridges, expansion joints are also utilized. These joints are designed to allow the bridge structure to expand and contract with temperature changes. One common type of expansion joint used in steel bridges is the sliding type, which consists of steel plates or beams that can slide over one another. This allows the bridge to adjust its length as the temperature fluctuates.
In the case of metal pipes used for carrying steam, expansion loops or compensators are typically installed. Expansion loops consist of a U-shaped section in the pipe that allows for expansion and contraction. Compensators, on the other hand, are flexible components installed in the pipeline that absorb the thermal movement. They can be bellows-like structures made of metal or other flexible materials.
These methods accommodate the thermal expansion and contraction in the construction of railway tracks, steel bridges, and metal pipes, ensuring that they can withstand temperature changes without causing structural issues.