TECHNICAL SUPPORT - BELLOWS

Development and production of components for machine tools since 1949.

Classification - Bellows

Bellows are essential elements for protection from dust, chips, humidity and moving chemicals.

Rubber bellows – Available in the following versions:
- Cylindrical: with collars of the same diameter
- Conical: with collars of different diameters
Fabric bellows (made without mold, suitable for long strokes and covers of guides and worm screws)

Material and thermal compatibility - Bellows

Each material used for the production of bellows has specific characteristics of chemical resistance and temperature ranges. Below is a comparison table:

Material	Typical chemical resistance	Temperature range
NBR Nitrile Rubber	Mineral oils, greases, light fuels	-30°C / +100°C
EPDM	Hot water, steam, atmospheric agents, UV	-40°C / +140°C
Neoprene	Moderate oils, atmospheric agents	-35°C / +110°C
Silicone	High temperatures, sterilization, food	-60°C / +200°C
FKM (Viton®)	Oils, solvents, fuels, aggressive chemical agents	-20°C / +210°C
Natural rubber	Abrasion, flexibility, air resistance	-40°C / +80°C

Assembly - Bellows

To ensure the durability and effectiveness of the bellows, it is important to respect some fundamental rules during installation:

Collars can be secured by metal or plastic clamps, or in machined housings
The diameter of the collar can be slightly extended to fit the attachment point
The flange fixing is suitable for:
- Rubber coated fabric bellows
- Some special rubber versions
Always check that the minimum and maximum bellows stroke is compatible with the machine movements
At maximum extension, the coils must not retract inwards, to avoid damage.

Troubleshooting - Bellows

Problem	Possible cause	Recommended action
Laceration	Excessive extension or abnormal torsion	Check the compatibility of the bellows with the machine movements
Laceration	Cutting from a rigid body or external object	Check for sharp objects in the running area
Hardening or cracks	Aging of the material due to exposure to air and direct light	Check UV exposure and service life – prefer EPDM or CR for outdoor applications

Hardening or cracks	Aging of the material by temperature	Check the thermal range of use
Swelling	Chemical reaction	Check the compatibility between the bellows material and external agents

Notes - Bellows

Fabric bellows can be customized in shape, fastening and materials.
For bellows subjected to aggressive environments or complex movements, contact our support for suggestions on materials and geometries.