Custom air bellow solutions offer remarkable flexibility and efficiency when it comes to specific industrial applications, particularly in environments where conventional actuators or isolators fall short. By tailoring air bellows to meet particular needs, we can achieve enhanced load handling, increased durability, and better alignment with environmental conditions, which ultimately contributes to more efficient systems and extended equipment lifespans.
Why Choose Custom Air Bellows for Unique Applications?
In specialized industrial environments, the need for precise control and adaptability is paramount. Custom air bellows, such as those offered by Tevema, can be specifically designed to handle unique loads, vibration requirements, and motion profiles. One of the biggest advantages is their almost frictionless operation, which reduces wear and prolongs service life compared to traditional rigid actuators.
Improved Durability for Adverse Conditions
Custom air bellows are built to endure challenging environments, whether exposed to extreme temperatures or abrasive substances. By modifying the elastomer compounds, such as Natural Rubber (NR/SBR), Chlorobutyl (CIIR), or Nitrile (NBR), these bellows can resist harsh chemicals, extreme temperatures, and mechanical stresses. This customization allows us to match the bellow properties to the exact operational conditions of the application, ensuring longevity and reliability.
“An environment well-adapted to its function is conducive to productivity.” – Buckminster Fuller
Enhanced Isolation Properties
In applications requiring high levels of vibration isolation, custom air bellows can provide the best isolation performance available in the market. Using auxiliary reservoirs can lower the natural frequency of the air springs, thus achieving isolation of over 99% of unwanted vibrations. This feature is particularly crucial in delicate machinery or precision equipment, where vibration can lead to significant operational disruptions.
Additionally, custom designs can include specific mounting solutions that facilitate easy integration with existing setups. Tevema‘s custom air bellows offer a unique adaptability with options like crimped bead plates or removable bead rings, making them suitable for single-acting actuators, vibration isolators, or even pneumatic cushioning in transport vehicles.
Application Versatility in Unique Industrial Environments
Custom air bellows shine in a wide variety of unique industrial applications. For example, in off-highway vehicles, the use of air bellows can provide smoother suspension, effectively reducing shock and vibration, improving both machine longevity and operator comfort. In conveyor systems and precision manufacturing, these bellows can precisely manage the tension in web tensioning devices or provide dynamic force in scissor lifts, all while being almost completely maintenance-free.
Customization Leads to Greater Efficiency
Custom air bellows can also significantly contribute to energy savings. By optimizing the air pressure required for different applications, we can ensure minimal energy use while still meeting operational needs. For instance, specific applications might require higher pressures, and by using a four-ply construction, air bellows can achieve a pressure capability of up to 12 bar, allowing for greater force and higher loads without compromising the system’s efficiency.
“The efficiency of the system depends largely on the suitability of its components.” – W. Edwards Deming
Effective Noise Reduction and Height Control
Tevema‘s air bellows can be custom-built to regulate the height consistently under alternating loads. This is especially important in situations where changes in load might otherwise impact performance or lead to an imbalance. Height control also plays a critical role in noise reduction, as correctly regulated bellows can significantly reduce structural noise, leading to quieter operation—essential in industries like healthcare or any other noise-sensitive environment.
Low Maintenance and Long Lifespan
Custom air bellows are known for their low maintenance requirements. The absence of sliding seals or pistons, as seen in other pneumatic solutions, eliminates the need for lubrication and reduces wear due to friction. This contributes to an extended service life, even under heavy loads or extreme conditions. Additionally, the compact starting height makes air bellows ideal for confined spaces, offering powerful actuation without the need for extensive room.
Key Customization Features Available with Air Bellows
Custom air bellows can be adapted in multiple ways to fit specific requirements:
- Material Composition: Different elastomer types, such as EPDM, NBR, or CIIR, allow bellows to handle everything from high temperatures to exposure to chemicals and oils.
- Mounting Options: Bead rings, crimped bead plates, or even stud adapters can be utilized for different installation requirements, providing secure attachment and ensuring long-term stability.
- Stroke Capabilities: Depending on the size and number of convolutions, air bellows can achieve strokes up to 430 mm, as detailed in the specifications.
- Pressure and Force: Custom bellows can be designed for pressures ranging from 5 to 12 bar, depending on the application, providing the necessary force without overextending.
These customization capabilities are vital in achieving optimal performance for unique applications, such as industrial vibration isolation, heavy-load handling in logistics, or even the specific demands of medical equipment.
Custom air bellow solutions are indispensable in applications requiring precision, adaptability, and robustness. By addressing specific industrial requirements with tailored designs, air bellows offer unmatched flexibility, durability, and efficiency. Whether used for vibration isolation, heavy-load actuation, or complex positioning tasks, custom air bellows enhance operational performance and extend equipment lifespans in diverse and unique settings.