A universal expansion joint is one containing two bellows joined by a common connector for the purpose of absorbing any combination of the three basic movements such as axial movements, lateral deflection, and angular rotation. These are usually furnished with control rods to distribute the movement between the two bellows of the expansion joint and stabilize the common connector. It consists of two bellows separated by a pipe section or spool. The primary purpose of this arrangement is to have a unit, which will accept large amounts of lateral deflection. The amount of lateral deflection they can accept is a function of the amount of angulations each bellows can absorb and the distance between the bellows. These are used to accommodate lateral movements that are too excessive for a single axial expansion joint, or where there is a limitation on the amount of lateral forces allowed on the connecting piping system or equipment.