EPDM Rubber metal pipe connectors (FLEX)

Pipelines connected to pumps, compressors and valves transmit vibrations throughout the entire system. FLEX joints interrupt this propagation. The cylindrical EPDM elastomer body absorbs the small vibrations generated by operating machinery, protecting pipes and fittings from premature wear.

Larosi distributes FLEX Rubber metal pipe connectors EPDM from DN20 to DN200, with immediate availability from stock in Padua.

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How a FLEX joint works

The joint is installed between two fixed points of the line, near the vibration source. The EPDM body contains no metal parts in contact with the conveyed fluid or the counter-flanges. This eliminates the risk of corrosion at the joint point.

Inside there are two flanged carbon steel inserts that ensure the mechanical seal of the coupling. Starting from DN80, the thrust generated by the internal pressure requires additional reinforcement: the inserts are completed by internal spacer tie rods, also in carbon steel.

What EPDM Rubber metal pipe connectors (FLEX) do not do

A common mistake is to use these joints to compensate for movements that are not their responsibility. FLEX joints must not absorb:

• axial or lateral expansions of the pipeline
• large amplitude vibrations
• torsions
• angular movements

For these requirements dedicated expansion joints are needed, not anti-vibration joints.

Installation rules

Correct installation directly affects the service life of the joint. Some rules must be followed without exception:

• the joint must always be mounted between two fixed points, sized for the purpose
• the drilling length H must be maintained exactly as supplied, without initial tension
• the counter-flanges of the line must be parallel and well aligned with each other

Residual tension during assembly reduces the useful life of the product and can cause premature leaks.

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Technical characteristics

Parameter	Value
Body material	EPDM elastomer
Internal inserts	Carbon steel (flanged)
Maximum pressure	16 bar at 20°C (from DN20 to DN200)
Drilling	PN16 from DN20 to DN150, PN10 for DN200
Operating temperature	from -15°C to +100°C
Compatible fluids	water, sea water, weak acids and bases
Max operating pressure (compatible fluids)	10 bar
Max constant operating temperature	+100°C

Note: the table reports two sets of pressure values present in the technical catalogue (16 bar as the maximum structural pressure of the joint, 10 bar as the maximum recommended operating pressure with the indicated fluids). We recommend verifying with the customer which value to report as the primary data on the page, to avoid ambiguity in the public technical data sheet.

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Dimensional table

Units of measurement in millimetres, unless otherwise indicated.

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Available product codes

DN	Article code
20	AC020-EP16
25	AC025-EP16
32	AC032-EP16
40	AC040-EP16
50	AC050-EP16
65	AC065-EP16
80	AC080-EP16
100	AC100-EP16
125	AC125-EP16
150	AC150-EP16
200	AC200-EP10 / AC200-EP16

For DN200 two versions are available, PN10 drilling and PN16 drilling. Specify the required drilling at the time of order.

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Why choose Larosi for EPDM Rubber metal pipe connectors (FLEX)

Padua has hosted the Larosi warehouse for over fifty years. This continuity translates into a concrete advantage for those who purchase:

• all sizes from DN20 to DN200 available from stock
• fast shipping throughout the national and European territory
• possibility of sourcing or manufacturing non-catalogue joints on request
• direct technical support for choosing the correct size

A reseller working with multiple construction sites or production lines cannot afford long waiting times. Immediate availability reduces plant downtime related to the replacement of worn joints.

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Frequently asked questions