Rubber bellows, also known as rubber expansion bellows or rubber expansion joints, are indispensable in piping systems for absorbing movement, vibrations, and misalignments between connected sections. Various materials are available, including natural rubber, neoprene, and nitrile rubber, and they are known for their flexibility and durability.
The primary role of rubber expansion bellows is to absorb vibrations and shocks within a piping system. This capability is crucial in preventing stress, fatigue, and potential damage to pipes and associated equipment. Temperature variations, pressure fluctuations, or dynamic forces typically cause such movements.
Rubber bellows are suitable for various industrial applications, such as HVAC systems, power plants, chemical plants, and pipelines. Their flexibility helps maintain the integrity and longevity of the entire system. They are available in axial, lateral, and angular designs to accommodate specific directional movement requirements.
In summary, rubber expansion bellows are flexible connectors within piping systems, providing a reliable solution for accommodating movements and maintaining overall infrastructure stability.
We stock a comprehensive range of rubber expansion bellows in the UK, ensuring fast dispatch and reducing downtime on-site, ranging in diameter from 25mm to 600mm, catering to various needs.
Our rubber expansion bellows are available with mild or stainless steel spinning flanges. We can machine these flanges to match any flange table or non-standard drilling requirements. Additionally, we offer bellows with mild steel female union end fittings that are 200mm long for bore sizes up to 50mm.
Our standard stock flanged expansion bellows have overall lengths of 130mm and 150mm, but we can provide custom lengths upon request. To help with identification, manufacturers typically mark different types of rubber bellows with specific colour spots or bands: Nitrile rubber with a yellow spot or band, EPDM with a red spot or band, Viton with a purple spot or band, and Hypalon with a green spot or band.
Our rubber expansion bellows are designed for optimal performance, combining sturdiness and versatility. For enhanced strength, we offer tie bars with each below. We can also accommodate non-standard flanges if you require them.
Hand-fabricated rubber bellows might be more suitable for applications where standard sizes do not meet your needs.
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Rubber bellows are critical for the efficient operation and longevity of piping systems across various industries. They absorb vibrations and accommodate movements, protecting your system from stress and damage. With our UK-stocked range and customisation options, we provide quick and reliable solutions tailored to your specific needs. Whether you need standard sizes or bespoke hand-fabricated bellows, we ensure your system operates smoothly and efficiently.