Differences Between Flex Connectors and Bellows

26 Mar 2020 Expansion Joints, Flexible Hoses

Understanding the differences between flex connectors and bellows will help you make an informed decision about which device will work best for your requirements. At Flextech Industries, they understand how vital it is to choose the best device to perform the specific function you need. That is why they can custom design the ideal flex connector or bellow for your pipes.

What are Flexible Connectors?

Flexible connectors are made from flexible hoses and are designed to absorb or isolate high frequency, low amplitude engine vibrations from the rest of the exhaust piping. The flexible hoses used to create flexible connectors are usually constructed from a single ply of small corrugations that allow the material to move with vibration; however, the corrugations are not designed to compress, which means that a flexible connector will fail if it is being operated under compression. It is important to note the flexible connectors are not designed to compensate for or absorb pipe expansion or to correct major misalignments in exhaust piping.

What are Bellows?

Compared to flexible connectors, bellows or expansion joints tend to be much more flexible and are designed to absorb pipe expansion. Since bellows have larger corrugations than flexible connectors, they are able to compress more and tend to be better at handling lateral movement to tolerate pipe misalignment. Thanks to their level of flexibility, bellows can also provide expansion absorption and vibration isolation than a flexible connector, even when the bellows are a shorter length.

Bellows are available in both single-ply and dual-ply versions. Dual-ply bellows are constructed from two thinner layers of steel and are more flexible, absorb more expansion and vibration, and provide better durability than single-ply bellows. While dual-ply bellows tend to cost more than single-ply bellows, they are often the preferred choice.

Flex Connectors and Bellows from Flextech Industries

No matter what type of flexible connector or bellow you are looking for, our professional team can help you find the perfect device for your exact requirements. We offer a range of both standard flexible connectors and bellows, as well as complete customization and manufacturing options for anyone who cannot find exactly what they are looking for.

If you would like to learn more about the differences between flex connectors and bellows, or if you are interested in one of their products, please get in touch with Flextech Industries at the location nearest you or by filling out a contact form on their website.