Testing bellows for quality assurance is vital. Like biomedical, power plants, and aerospace, various industries need bellows for use in precision systems. They help regulate and monitor critical sensors and seals. Failure of any part of these types of systems will lead to severe consequences. When you’re searching for expansion joints, It’s essential to purchase parts from metal bellows manufacturers that include testing.
Bellows need testing to ensure they can withstand less-than-ideal conditions, such as extreme temperatures or corrosion. When they’re tested, you can rest assured your bellows are manufactured to the highest quality standards.
Learn more about bellows quality testing and why they matter to stay informed about bellows durability.
Radiographic
Radiographic testing can help find any weaknesses in expansion joints, especially in fusion welds. They can detect discrepancies, imperfections, or things that can cause rupture. Radiographic imaging needs to be performed before and after the bellows are convoluted.
Liquid Dye Penetrant
Liquid testing is also used to detect any potential failures. After cleaning the surface, testing professionals apply a fluorescent dye, coating the entire surface. After a specific amount of time, the dye is wiped off, showing any cracks or imperfections. Liquid dye penetrant will also show defects on the surface.
Pneumatic Pressure
Pneumatic pressure bellows testing detects the presence of halogen gases. It’s highly sensitive and uses low pressure to confirm a leak. Even though it can detect a leak, it can’t corroborate the structural integrity of the bellows.
Hydrostatic Pressure
Hydrostatic pressure tests the bellows pressure capability as well as detect any leaks. The unit is filled with water over the recommended working pressure (one and a half times the design pressure capabilities.) The bellows shouldn’t be damaged in this process and should remain in their original condition.
Understanding bellows quality testing procedures and why they matter can help you avoid problems with your exhaust system. If you have questions about testing the durability of your bellows, contact us at Triad Bellows.
