Summary

Expansion bellows can be designed with reinforcing or equalizing rings which are located around the outside of the convolutions, preventing bellows being forced out from high pressure. The principal purpose of these devices is to reinforce the bellows under internal high pressure, so that bellows does not squirm and equalize movement among all the convolutions.

Equalizing and reinforcing rings are made of carbon steel, stainless steel or other suitable alloys.

Reinforcing rings are usually Tee shaped in cross section and equalizing rings are normally fabricated from tubing or solid round bars of suitable material.

Bellows with reinforcing or equalizing rings can be made for any type of expansion joint (axial, lateral or angular etc.). The disadvantage of these bellows is the increased stiffness and limited movement of the bellows.