PVC Bellows – What Are They, How Do They Work, and What Are They Used For?

In order for the industry to achieve the maximum level of production with the highest efficiency, it is necessary to unify the work criteria and focus them on ensuring the optimal functioning of machines. Machines responsible for a large portion of industrial work consist of many components that need to be properly protected to function correctly and carry out all processes. One of the most desirable protection systems in industrial machines are bellows, which, regardless of the material they are made of, are suitable for protecting machine components. In this post, we will explain everything about bellows made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), one of the most commonly used materials in the industry.

PVC Bellows - What Are They, How Do They Work, and What Are They Used For?

1. Mounting ends

2. Internal guide (if necessary)

3. Rubber

4. Mounting ends

PVC Bellows are a mechanism designed to protect the moving and stationary parts of all types of machines used in industries that conduct large-scale production processes.

The use of PVC bellows guarantees protection of the machine from harmful factors resulting from its operation, which can cause serious damage, including partial or complete shutdown of the equipment.

How do PVC Bellows differ from those made of other materials?

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is a product created by the chemical combination of carbon, hydrogen, and chlorine. It ranks third in the global plastic production market.

There are two types of PVC that can be used to make bellows: flexible and rigid. Both are highly resistant to abrasion and chemicals, ensuring safety and efficiency during the production of such devices and their installation on the machine.

PVC bellows differ from others in that the material from which they are made is created by the polymerization of vinyl chloride, which is formed by combining chlorine and ethylene, allowing for the production of a lightweight and chemically neutral plastic.

These types of bellows are very versatile and are also used in systems requiring products designed for long-lasting use; their service life can exceed 15 years.

What Types of Bellows Are Made from PVC?

On the market for protective bellows for industrial machines, you can find a wide range of products varying in shape, size, and, of course, the type of material used to make them.

PVC Bellows can be supplied in different shapes.

PVC bellows come in various forms such as:

• Hexagonal,

• Curtain,

• Rectangular,

• For guides,

• Formed,

• Sewn,

• Self-winding,

In some cases, rigid PVC is also used to reinforce the interior folds of the bellows, providing even better protection.

What Can Be Protected Using PVC Bellows?

PVC Bellows can protect various machine components, such as:

• Guides,

• Sliding tables,

• Lead screws,

• Cylinders,

• Wiring,

• Mechanical elements,

• Robotic arm joints,

• Pneumatic actuators.

They are also used to protect linear guides, lathes, gearboxes, and in small spaces. This effectively prevents machine failures and unexpected stoppages.

What Are the Benefits of Using PVC Bellows?

The key advantages of using PVC bellows are:

- Versatility and excellent value for money.

- Made from a lightweight, durable, and fire-resistant material.

- Resistance to deformation, waterproofing, and high resistance to weather conditions.

- Protection of machine components from coolants, dust, water, oils, acids, hydrocarbons, and hot chips.

- Metal mounting ends for installation in the machine.

- The possibility of mounting in "U" profiles for proper operation.

- Internal reinforcements in the folds, and in some cases, also with sliding guides or anti-abrasive clamps.

- Reduction in machine maintenance costs.

- Extension of equipment service life.

- Optimization of production processes.

Summary

Choosing the right material for a protective bellows for industrial machine components is crucial, as not every material provides the same level of protection. PVC bellows are among the most commonly used in industry and guarantee continuity in production processes. They are resistant, high-quality, and lightweight. They ensure maximum equipment efficiency, as well as an effective and balanced production process that allows for achieving goals and expected results. Available in various shapes and sizes, such as hexagonal, curtain, rectangular, for guides, formed, sewn, and self-winding – made of highly resistant PVC. In addition to providing comprehensive protection for machines against external factors, PVC bellows allow devices to operate in optimal conditions, reduce maintenance costs, and extend their service life. Covers play a very important role in safety, protecting workers from undesirable external factors that can cause bodily injuries, and in extreme cases, lead to disability or death of machine operators.

If you want to effectively protect your machine – PVC bellows are an excellent solution!