Engineering tools

Thermal Expansion Calculator

Estimate how far a pipe run will grow or contract with temperature, so you can specify the right expansion joint for the movement.

How it works

Choose, enter, calculate

Pick a pipe material and a typical application, or enter your own values. Adjust the temperatures if you know the exact figures for your service, then enter the pipe length to get an indicative thermal expansion.

Formula used

Expansion (mm) = Length (m) × Temp Diff (°C) × Co-efficient

Co-efficients are the linear thermal expansion values (m/m°C) for each material. Choose Custom CTE to enter a value for a material not listed.

Calculation at a glance

L × ΔT × CTE

Length times temperature difference times the material co-efficient of thermal expansion.

Materials5 presets + custom CTE

Applications9 temperature presets

OutputExpansion in millimetres

BasisLinear thermal expansion

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Pipe Material:

Application:

Starting Temperature (Degrees C):

Operating Temperature (Degrees C):

Temperature Difference (Degrees C):

Linear Metres of Pipe (m):

Thermal Expansion

Disclaimer: These calculation results are indicative only, and should not be relied on for design engineering. For further information, or for assistance with your project, please contact Aflex here.

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Partner with Aflex

With over 30 years of bellows application experience, Aflex helps engineers, consultants and plant operators avoid costly failures through correct expansion joint selection and practical pipeline solutions.

Please note that any information provided on this page is general in nature and in no way constitutes professional advice.

Aflex Pty Ltd requires that you seek professional engineering advice to ensure that any expansion joints installed will operate safely and effectively.