What is a method to prevent damage to piping due to temperature changes?

Using expansion bends is an effective method to prevent damage to piping due to temperature changes. When liquids or gases inside pipes are heated, they expand, which can create additional stress on the pipe and its supports. Expansion bends are specially designed curves in the piping system that allow for this expansion to occur without placing undue strain on the piping itself. By accommodating the movement, expansion bends help prevent issues such as leaks, ruptures, or misalignment that could result from thermal expansion.

In contrast, insulation serves to reduce heat loss or gain, but it does not directly address the mechanical stresses caused by expansion. Temperature control valves manage the temperature of fluids but do not accommodate the physical expansion itself. Heat tracing is used to maintain a specific temperature in piping and can help prevent freezing, but like insulation, it does not provide a mechanical solution to the expansion that occurs due to temperature changes. Therefore, the use of expansion bends is crucial for maintaining the integrity of piping systems subjected to temperature fluctuations.