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Flexible bellows are a smart addition anywhere machines are in use. From hospital rooms to manufacturing facilities, bellows protect equipment, people, and materials. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes to fit almost any equipment. As custom solutions or replacement parts, learn how bellows can make your work site safer and more efficient.
Bellows are a type of way cover that can extend and collapse to cover moving parts on equipment. They’re most often made of TPU Coated Nylon or polyester, but they can be manufactured from a range of materials. The type of material chosen depends on the work environment. For example, medical equipment may need FDA approved materials, while flame ratings are more important in manufacturing environments.
Average life of a flexible bellows unit is approximately 600,000 cycles. That means it can expand and contract about 600,000 times before it needs to be replaced.
Some of the most common materials for bellows unit construction:
They can be sewn, heat welded, or heat sealed. Adhesives are not recommended for most applications since the adhesive is likely to fail before the bellows reaches its full lifecycle. Bellows can be wire supported or constructed with permanent crease folds.
Materials may be chosen to meet flame rating, moisture and stain resistance, antifungal or antibacterial requirements.
In short, the bellows are used for protection and containment. Flexible bellows help to protect sensitive equipment from dust, debris, and other intrusion. This can extend the life of the equipment and prevent breakdowns.
Way covers also function as safety guards, shielding potential pinch points to prevent worker injury. When used in medical equipment or commercial spaces, bellows protect patients and customers from coming into contact with moving equipment parts that could injure them.
In addition to all the safety and functional considerations, bellows also just look better. They hide joints, lubricants, and metal parts to present a cleaner looking exterior.
Flexible bellows are often used to protect health care equipment where cleanliness is paramount. Bellows help keep lubrication in and dust out. Because they can expand and contract, they allow for the equipment’s full range of motion while protecting patients, workers, and equipment.
Bellows and way covers are commonly used in:
Bellows come in many sizes and configurations to fit different kinds of equipment. The physical space and range of motion determines the size and shape of the way cover. Depending on the need and material, way covers may be curved, flat or a variety of geometric shapes.
Common bellow shapes include:
Multidiameter bellows can combine bellows of various diameters to create a stepped solution. Mounting plates and separating zippers can make bellows easier to install and remove. They can be as long as 20 feet (extended) or as short as a few centimeters (compressed).
The applications engineers at Sealwerks can help you design the ideal way cover for any equipment. Whether you’re replacing old bellows or developing a custom solution, we have the design and manufacturing expertise you need. Contact us to start your project.
Are you looking to create a new product, re-engineer an existing product, or find a full service solution for your product production? Contact us and talk to an expert today!
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