Hinge Bellows

About Hinge Bellows

A Hinged Bellows also called a Hinged Expansion Joint is a mechanical component designed to absorb angular movement in piping systems while preventing axial movement and resisting internal pressure thrust It consists of a metal bellows element combined with a hinge mechanism that controls movement to a single plane

Detailed Description

Structure

A single corrugated metal bellows that provides flexibility

Hinge plates and pins connected to the ends of the bellows

The hinges are designed to take the full pressure thrust so the bellows itself does not extend axially

Function

Allows rotation in one plane only accommodating angular deflection due to thermal expansion misalignment or structural movement

Prevents axial movement and lateral displacement when used singly

Reduces load on adjacent piping and anchors because the hinge absorbs pressure thrust

Usage

Typically installed in pairs or sets of three to absorb large thermal movements

Common in pipelines refineries power plants and HVAC systems where controlled flexibility is required without imposing high loads on the piping system

Key Features

Absorbs angular movement only single plane

Hinge mechanism resists pressure thrust

Requires low anchor loads compared to unrestrained bellows

Compact strong and reliable for highpressure applications

Often used in combination with gimbal or universal joints for multidirectional movement