KINFLEX™ Rubber/St. Steel Flexible Connectors are designed to prevent stresses caused by expansion and contraction, isolate piping systems against the transfer of noise and vibration, and compensate for misalignment. These flexible pipe connectors help absorb the continuous movement experienced in piping systems due to varying ambient temperatures, differences in the temperature of materials being handled, and differences in material composition. By accommodating this movement, KINFLEX™ connectors help reduce the risk of buckling, pulling apart, and related maintenance issues.

Flexible Piping Movement Control
In HVAC, MEP, and industrial piping systems, movement may occur due to thermal expansion, contraction, settlement, load stresses, wearing of parts, and equipment operation. KINFLEX™ Flexible Connectors are designed to compensate for lateral, torsional, and angular movements, helping piping and mechanical equipment remain properly connected even when alignment changes occur during service.

Noise and Vibration Isolation for Rotating Equipment
KINFLEX™ Flexible Connectors reduce objectionable noise and vibration in piping systems connected to pumps, compressors, and similar pulsating equipment. Limiting the transmission of vibration through pipework helps protect adjacent equipment efficiency and improves working conditions in offices, factories, plantrooms, and mechanical areas.

Rubber and Stainless Steel Connector Options
Flexible pipe connectors may be specified for piping connected to rotating equipment to reduce noise and vibration transmission and to eliminate stresses caused by misalignment and thermal movement. Neoprene-based flexible connectors are available in single- or double-sphere molded joint configurations. Types FIC, FTC, KWA, and KMA connectors are made of molded EPDM reinforced with nylon tire cord and are supplied with mild steel floating flanges or female union ends. BFMC and V-Loop connectors are made of stainless steel or bronze flexible bellows with stainless steel or bronze braided outer covers and flanged, threaded, or grooved carbon steel end fittings.

Seismic V-Loop Movement Solution
KINFLEX™ seismic V-loops are used to address pipe motion caused by thermal pipe growth and movement associated with seismic activity. They require limited installation space compared with traditional large pipe loops and can help retain heat. V-Loops do not introduce thrust loads on piping systems, unlike metal bellows and rubber expansion joints, which can impose significant anchor loads due to static pressure thrust. Their construction creates a flexible product that does not expand when pressurized, and they can be manufactured with different end fittings and copper or stainless steel braided material.

Control Rod Coordination
Control rods may be used with unanchored systems or spring-mounted equipment when pressures and movements exceed the connector’s design limits. Control rod assemblies are designed to absorb static pressure thrust developed at the connector, helping minimize possible connector failure or damage to equipment. They are not required in properly anchored systems where movement remains within rated limits, but they are recommended for unanchored systems and spring-mounted equipment when maximum pressure and movement exceed rated limits.