Metal Bellows Expansion joints have been designed to absorb a specified amount of movement by flexing of the thin-gauge convolutions. If proper care is not taken during installation, it may reduce the cycle life and the pressure capacity of the Expansion joints which could result in an early failure of the bellows element or damage the piping system. See table given below.

Recommendation for Installation

• Yellow Shipping Rods are to be removed after installation and prior to pressure test of equipment.
• Install assembly as per flow direction, if marked.
• Remove any foreign material that may have become lodged between the convolutions.
• Protect bellows from weld spatter.
• Do not use cleaning agent which contains Chlorides.
• Do not use steel wool and wire brush on the bellows membrane.
• Do not stretch, compress or off-set the expansion joint to fit the piping system, other wise the expansion joint may be over stressed when the system is in service.
• Do not exceed rated Test Pressure and Design Condition of the Expansion Joint.
• Use only designated lifting lugs when provided. Lugs are normally provided in heavy design in large size.

Inspection and Quality Assurance at SHAH ENGINEERS ( India )

Quality control is one of our most important functions along with design and manufacturing. All material used must pass a rigid quality standards. Products are produced by experienced craftsmen and tested during each stage of production. Upon completion, each finished assembly is Hydrostatically/Pneumatically tested to ensure it will withstand all designed service requirements.

Some of the test/inspection that we carry out :

• Chemical and mechanical analysis of material for Bellows, Pipes, Flanges and other hardware.
• X-ray, Liquid Dye Penetrant tests for welds.
• Hydraulic-Pneumatic-Helium leak Test for Assembly.
• Vacuum Testing.
• Cycle life Test