Rubber Bellows - Expansion Joints
Rubber bellows, also known as expansion joints, are parts made of flexible rubber, usually reinforced with metal rings, used for the dynamic connection between two sides of a machine or structure. They are designed to absorb shock, vibration and thermal expansion, allowing the sides to move without disturbing their relative position. Rubber bellows have been used for many years, with particular applications ranging from automotive and industrial machinery to energy production plants, water treatment systems, and more.
Superflex Neoprene Rubber Bellows
Superflex Neoprene rubber bellows are constructed from a multi-layered neoprene polymer. They are lightweight, wear-resistant and can withstand high temperatures, making them suitable for a wide range of applications. Superflex Neoprene rubber bellows can offer a long service life, due to their flexible design which has a considerable range of motion in all directions and will not distort or crack. In addition, they are available in a range of sizes and shapes to perfectly fit your application.
Types of Expansion Joints
There are many different types of expansion joints available, each offering different advantages and features.
Loop
Loop expansion joints are the most common type of bellows, consisting of two metal rings and a flexible rubber seal in between, providing a tight and leak-free connection. The metal rings are held together with bolts, providing a strong and secure connection. These types of rubber bellows are most suited to applications where there is no requirement for an adjustable connection.
Expanding
Expanding bellows are similar to loop bellows, but they have an adjustable connection, allowing them to accommodate different expansion in the component. This adjustable design makes them ideal for applications where the connection needs to be constantly adjusted to compensate for temperature and pressure variations.
Arch
Arch rubber bellows are designed for flexibility, allowing them to absorb lateral and torsional movements. This makes them suitable for applications that involve constant lateral movement, such as railway tracks.
Disk
Disk expansion joints are designed for applications with high thermal loads. They have a large contact area on both sides, which allows them to dissipate heat more effectively than other types of rubber bellows. In addition, they can accommodate changing temperatures, pressures and loads.
Applications
Rubber bellows are used in many industries, including automotive, aerospace, industrial engineering, construction, and energy production. Their primary function is to provide a vibration and shock resistant connection between two components, which makes them especially suitable for motorised equipment, such as engines and pumps. Other applications include connecting two sides of a vacuum chamber, connecting two parts of a machine or structure, and providing a flexible joint to allow thermal expansion or contraction without damaging the connecting parts.