Bellows Systems has been manufacturing,
Custom Metal Bellows for the past 40 years
We design and manufacture metal bellows for various industrial OEM applications including, Process Piping Expansion Joints, Actuators and Mechanical Seals, Engine Exhaust Systems and Manifolds, Fluid Management Devices such as Accumulators and Volume Compensators. BSI’s standard metal bellow elements are also readily assembled into various Expansion Joint assemblies per customer requirements. Bellows Systems manufactures Metal Bellows in either Single ply, Double ply (two ply) or Multi ply configurations in a variety of material choices.
Our Custom Metal Bellows
Precision-Engineered Metal Bellows
Bellows Systems specializes in manufacturing Multi-ply Bellows with high cycle life.
BSI has the state of the art technology to seam welded tubes and form them into bellows configuration with the movements, spring rates and cycle life best suited to your application.
Our Metal Bellows are manufactured using both mechanical punch forming and hydroforming methods. Our punching and roll forming processes allow us to manufacture a variety of shapes including circular, rectangular and even oval shaped bellows in a single or multi-ply configuration. Our Engineers can assist you in finding right bellows design for your application.
Bellows Systems has also been manufacturing Kopperman style hydroformed bellows since acquiring Kopperman Industries in 1986. The choice of materials is dependent on the corrosion resistance required by the operating conditions of the system in which they might be installed.
CUSTOM MANUFACTURING
Custom Metal Bellows
At Bellows Systems, we take pride in our custom metal bellows manufacturing capabilities. Our experienced team works closely with clients to design and produce metal bellows that meet their specific requirements. We utilize advanced manufacturing techniques and rigorous testing processes to ensure the highest quality and performance of our bellows.
Whether it’s for aerospace, marine, industrial, or other applications, our custom metal bellows are engineered to withstand extreme conditions and provide reliable operation. With a focus on precision and excellence, Bellows Systems delivers tailor-made solutions that exceed expectations.
Share with us your design requirement
Hydroformed Metal Bellows
We offer expertly engineered hydroformed bellows at Bellows Systems, designed to deliver exceptional performance and durability. Utilizing advanced hydroforming techniques, our bellows are crafted to ensure precise fit, flexibility, and resistance to corrosion. Ideal for a wide range of industries, including aerospace, automotive, medical, and industrial applications, our hydroformed bellows provide reliable solutions for even the most demanding environments. Trust Bellows Systems for superior quality and performance in all your bellows needs.
Bellows End Configurations Types
Bellows Systems offers a variety of Bellows End Configurations. These includes Standard I-Cuff Ends, S-Cuff Ends, T-Cuff Ends, and U-Cuff Ends, each designed to provide specific functionalities and compatibility with different systems. These configurations are meticulously crafted to ensure optimal performance, durability, and seamless integration into various applications. With a commitment to excellence and innovation, Bellows Systems’ End Configurations Types are engineered to meet the highest standards of quality and reliability.
Metal Bellows Resources
Discover more about Bellows Systems! Download our brochure to explore our extensive range of products, learn about our esteemed clients, and understand our comprehensive services.
Get in-depth technical details on our metal bellows! Download our data sheets to explore the specifications, performance metrics, and technical insights of our products.
Metal Bellows Applications
Metal bellows are versatile components with a wide range of applications across various industries. In HVAC systems, they absorb thermal expansion and contraction, ensuring system integrity.
In the aerospace industry, metal bellows are crucial for fuel lines and exhaust systems, providing flexibility and reliability under extreme conditions. The petrochemical industry utilizes them in pipelines and reactors to accommodate thermal movements and maintain safety. In power plants, metal bellows compensate for thermal expansion, enhancing system efficiency and durability.
Custom Bellows Design and Manufacturing
At Bellows Systems, we offer a range of services for metal bellows, including custom engineering solutions, manufacturing of metal bellows tailored to specific requirements, assistance with material selection for different applications, and support in designing integrated systems and assemblies. Our expertise ensures that our metal bellows meet the highest standards of quality and performance.
Metal Bellows Materials:
Bellows Systems manufactures metal bellows and expansion joints using a wide range of materials. The most common materials we deal with include various grades of austenitic stainless steels, aluminum, brass, copper alloys, Inconel, Hastelloy, Monel, high Nickel alloys, Cobalt alloys, Titanium, and other specialty alloys. Each material is selected based on the application’s requirements and properties like corrosion resistance and cyclic fatigue.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are metal bellows used for?
Metal bellows are versatile components in piping systems, absorbing vibration, accommodating thermal expansion, and acting as flexible seals. Their corrugated design allows for flexing under pressure, unlike springs which provide linear force. Named for their resemblance to blacksmith’s bellows, they come in various materials like stainless steel and offer multiple configurations (welded, tied, etc.) for specific needs. Choosing the right bellow depends on factors like pressure, temperature, and movement required.
How do metal bellows work?
Metal bellows are thin, cylindrical tubes with a special feature. Their outer surface has a wavy pattern, running up and down the cylinder (perpendicular to the axis). This wavy design, called corrugation, makes them highly flexible. They can bend inwards and outwards (axial movement), side to side (lateral movement), and even twist slightly (angular movement) without leaking or breaking. This unique flexibility allows them to absorb pressure changes and movement in pipes and other systems.
What is the purpose of metal bellows in piping?
Metal bellows act like shock absorbers in piping systems. They absorb vibrations, bumps, and movement that could damage the pipes or equipment. This helps keep everything running smoothly and prevents leaks or breakdowns.
What are metal bellows made of?
What are metal bellows used for?
How do I choose a metal bellows?
To choose a metal bellows, consider: Material: Select based on application requirements like temperature, corrosion resistance. Type: Choose tied for controlled movement, untied for flexibility. Size: Ensure fit and capability to handle required movement and pressure.
What is the purpose of a metal bellow?
The purpose of a metal bellows is to provide flexibility and sealing in mechanical systems where movement, vibration absorption, and compensation for thermal expansion are required. They serve to maintain integrity and reliability in applications such as aerospace, automotive, industrial machinery, and medical devices by allowing components to move independently while maintaining a hermetic seal, thereby extending the lifespan and efficiency of the equipment they are integrated into.
Latest News & Blog
