Which joint category is associated with the smallest movement range?

• A. Medium movement joints
• B. Bridge expansion joints
• C. Small movement joints
• D. Rubber joints

Answer: (C)

The amount of relative movement a joint must accommodate drives how it is categorized. Small movement joints are designed for the least displacement between adjacent members, so they keep the joint opening minimal and handle only minor thermal effects or tolerances. Expansion joints are meant for large movements caused by temperature changes and other factors, so they allow much bigger openings. Medium movement joints fit in between, permitting more movement than small joints but less than expansion joints. Rubber joints vary by design, but they aren’t defined here as the smallest-range category. Thus, the category with the smallest movement range is small movement joints.