The pressure in the line gives rise to forces that may lead to line instability if no sliding points and fixed points are provided. If movements occur in different directions inside a pipeline, these need to be divided by planning anchors at suitable intervals. It can be stated generally that the proper location of rubber expansion joints is close to a main anchoring point. Following the joint in the line, a pipe guide or guides should be installed to keep the pipe in line and prevent undue displacement of this line. This is the simplest application of a universal expansion joint, namely, to absorb the expansion and contraction of a pipeline between fixed anchor points.

If stable anchors are not possible, the expansion joints need to be mounted such that the axial movement is diverted and can be received by tied lateral expansion joints. The correct mounting of universal, lateral and angular expansion joints is crucial to the functionality of the entire pipeline system.
 

Arrangement of Expansion Joints in Pipelines