What Is an Expander?
An Expander is one of the tools used to join copper pipes, and it can expand the inside diameter of pipes.
When installing air conditioners, it is necessary to cut and weld refrigerant pipes. In this case, the expander is used to widen one of the pipes and insert the other pipe into it. By welding in this state, the strength of the joint can be maintained.
Of course, it is possible to weld without using this tool, but this tool is frequently used because it reduces the risk of gas leakage from pinholes.
Uses of Expander
A typical application for an expander is the installation of air conditioners.
Expanders are not often used in ordinary installation of air conditioners for home use because the piping is relatively thin and can be easily bent.
On the other hand, commercial air conditioners have thicker piping that is difficult to bend, so cutting and welding of the piping is almost indispensable for installation.
Expanders are routinely used for such work.
Various types of expanders, including hydraulic and rechargeable types, are available, and they can be used according to the size of the work area and the intended use.
Principles of Expander
Expanders consist of four main parts:
The first part is a roller that deforms the inner surface of the pipe.
The second component is the mandrel, which rotates the roller.
The third part is the frame, which prevents the roller from falling off.
The fourth part is the bearing collar, which prevents damage to the piping.
Various types of expanders are available, including rechargeable and hydraulic types.
Hydraulic expanders do not require recharging and are compact. They also require less hand fatigue because they do not require extra force during processing.
Rechargeable expanders are capable of speedy work. Also, since they do not require any force, they can reduce the burden on the operator even more than hydraulic expanders.