Thermal expansion in pipelines, ducts and vessels which carry hot/cold fluids, or which are exposed to large variations in ambient temperature is a major problem confronting designers. As the metal temperature of the pipe, duct, or vessel increases or decreases, its length also varies due to thermal expansion or contraction. Therefore, unless compensation is provided for these dimensional changes, high stresses are induced in the piping, ducting, or vessel and large forces are transmitted through the system to anchors and connected equipment.
Several different methods are available for controlling the thermal expansion of piping and ducting. Most designers prefer the use of metal bellows expansion joints because they require less space than pipe bends and expansion loops and their inherent flexibility enables them to absorb movements in more than one direction, thereby permitting greater freedom in design. Furthermore, in most pipe sizes, expansion joints are more economical than other devices such as bends and loops; thus, resulting in lower initial costs for piping and construction work. Operating costs are also reduced since maintenance is eliminated and heat and friction losses are minimized.
Understanding this, Fluidyne Engineers, an ISO 9001-2018, ISO 45001-2018 certified company has been meeting the demand through custom-built precision metal bellows in India, since 1984. Fluidyne has over 30 years of expertise in the
design and manufacture of metal bellows and employs the latest technology in production and manufacturing. Its technology and machinery for manufacturing and prototype testing of metal bellows are completely indigenous. In addition to defence, shipbuilding and nuclear energy, the company has been catering to a wide range of clients like piping, railway and marine diesel engines, pharma machinery, bellows sealed valves, Oil & Gas, Steel Industries, Pressure Gauge & Instrumentation Manufacturers, Power Generation Transmission and Distribution Equipment.
“We follow the latest EJMA standards for the design, manufacture and quality assurance of metal bellows. The designs are validated with the test equipment available in-house. We regularly design manufacture and supply bellows (including prototype testing) to Atomic Energy establishments BARC, Navy, Defence Research and development organizations,” says Hari Srinivasan, Director at Fluidyne Engineers.
“We manufacture bellows in various grades of stainless steel, Inconel, Hastelloy, Monel, and titanium. We have successfully supplied Titanium bellows to valve manufactures and Atomic energy research organizations,” he adds.
We follow the latest EJMA standards for the design, manufacture and quality assurance of metal bellows. The designs are validated with the test equipment available in-house
Meeting Customer Specific Requirements
Fluidyne makes customizable metal bellows that are ideal for a wide range of precision applications for customers’ specific requirements. It offers convoluted (corrugated) metal bellows, reinforced bellows, and edge welded diaphragm bellows. From reverse engineering existing designs to supporting new cutting-edge applications, Fluidyne’s engineers are there to support clients’ every diverse need. Furthermore, Fluidyne has an in-house testing facility for helium leaks, pneumatic/hydraulic pressure testing, and spring rate testing. Also, they have in-house facilities for destructive type testing which is cycle life with internal or external pressure, squirm and burst pressure.
“Our advanced welding operations provide extremely consistent high quality joining methods as we combine our precision bellows with Pressed, stamped, and machined components to make value-added assemblies. Our design team is capable of design, manufacture and testing (as per latest EJMA standards) the complete range of bellows/compensators/expansion joints to the satisfaction of customers’ specific requirements,” concludes Hari. Going forward, Fluidyne plans to be completely focused on bringing the needed innovation by integrating the latest technologies and practices.