Building a continuous pipeline without joints to displace vibration and other forces is not wise. This results in cracked pipes after prolonged use because the system lacks the flexibility to endure resonating forces in different directions. Two implements that break up pipe systems and afford it this flexibility are flexible connectors and bellows. Read more to learn the differences between flex connectors and bellows, as well as their relative uses.
Flexible Connectors
Made from pliable materials including fabric and, relative to bellows, very thin, flexible connectors handle small-scale vibrational forces. Flexible connectors receive vibrations traveling downstream on the pipe system and, rather than allowing them to resonate further, dampen them by halting their resonance. This is a flexible connector’s primary objective and may fail if meant to protect a pipe system from compression, lateral torsion, and other forces.
Specifically, flexible connectors fail under compression because they lack the structural support to endure prolonged periods of force. Flexible connectors also fail when stretched from proper alignment because their fabric material cannot withstand stretching and the high incoming pressures from whatever passes through. In addition, builders should not install them to accommodate pipe expansion under extremely hot temperatures, which is often substantial and requires a more robust implement.
Bellows
Bellows are a more robust implement that works well when several forces need mitigation. Commonly made from metal, bellows have the intrinsic support and corrugations to tackle compression forces well. Also, for systems that experience pipe misalignment under certain temperatures, bellows can withstand this far better than flexible connectors.
Bellows have considerable flexibility because they come in several different joint types for certain needs. If you have a particular section that experiences lateral forces, a hinged joint that can accommodate these forces while bracing properly helps your system. For considerable torsional forces, a universal joint may be best. Overall, the major difference between bellows and flexible connectors is that bellows handle many more forces than flexible connectors, though they’re more complex and sophisticated in order to do this.
If you’re interested in implementing metal bellows in your own pipe system, regardless of your industry, consider contacting our team at Triad Bellows. We offer exhaust bellows, bellows capsules, and many more products and services that can help improve your system efficiency.
