Frequently Asked Questions Category Question Answer Dogbone What is a dogbone expansion joint? The dogbone expansion joint is a rubber and fabric composite that forms a continuous air tight connection around the perimeter of the steam turbine exhaust duct leading to the condenser. It provides a flexible connection capable of absorbing thermal movements and a certain amount of misalignment between the turbine floor and the condenser wall. Dogbone How do I know if I have a dogbone expansion joint? The easiest way is to look in the area above the condenser steam dome. Often the expansion joint is completely hidden from external view by the turbine foundation. In a case where it is not externally visible do not wait until you have a failure to find out what type of turbine to condenser connection you have. Consult the condenser owners manual or contact the condenser OEM. La Favorite has supplied most of the condenser manufacturers with original dogbone connections, so you may contact us directly. We may have records pertaining to your condenser. Dogbone What happens if a dogbone expansion joint fails? A catastrophic failure of the dogbone will shut down your plant due to the inability to maintain proper vacuum, which can lead to serious turbine damage. The cost of a dogbone is inconsequential compared to the expense of turbine rotor repair and the very costly downtime associated with it. Dogbone Does the Size of my dogbone matter? Each condenser is designed to use a specific size dogbone; however, due to various "as built" conditions, warping, structural fatigue, and other factors, the original dimensions of the condenser can change over time. La Favorite's inventory of incremental sizes will solve any size issues you may have. Dogbone How do I know if I need a field splice? Most modern units require on site splicing due to extraction steam line interference. Some earlier (pre-1960) units were designed to install an endless belt; however, we must be able to determine the exact length in order to do so. Almost all Boiler Feed Pump Turbine joints can be factory spliced. Dogbone Does it matter who does the splicing? It is recommended that you have an expert field service technician do your splice. La Favorite has several experienced technicians on their staff. Having La Favorite do your splice ensures full warranty coverage on the dogbone expansion joint. Since we are the manufacturer we can provide the best splice for your dogbone. Our splicing is done with the same hot vulcanization method we use in the factory during original construction of the dogbone. Our splice is designed to last the life of the dogbone expansion joint. Dogbone How long can I expect the dogbone expansion joint to last? Under normal service conditions, La favorite recommends that the dogbone expansion joint be put on a minimum ten year maintenance cycle. This life cycle makes sure that the most serviceability is recieved by the end user without compromising the integrity of plant operations. U-Joints My turbine to condenser connection does not look like a dogbone? You may have a u-joint type connection. These are called u-joints because of their shape. They can be either internally or externally flanged, and they provide the same type of service as a dogbone type connection. Miscellaneous Are there other types of turbine to condenser connections? As stated earlier there are other types of turbine to condenser connections. None have a better track record than the dogbone expansion joint. You may find that you have a metal bellows type, u type, or some other manufacturers attempt at reinventing the dogbone type. La Favorite recommends the traditional dogbone for the most reliability, and serviceability. If you do not have a dogbone type expansion joint, you can call La Favorite and we can retro-fit your condenser with a dogbone expansion joint.  Dogbone What is turn-key field service? A turnkey job is where La Favorite comes out to a jobsite with a crew and handles all aspects of the required work. From setting up scaffolding, to the removal of the old turbine to condenser connection, finishing with the installation of the new expansion joint. The last part of the job is the breakdown and cleanup when the installation is completed. Elastomeric Products Mechanical Packings . Condenser Expansion Joints . Specialty Seals . Custom Molding About Us  Contact Us  Ordering  Conditions of Sale We now accept

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