Air Bellows
Air bellows are the ideal choice for applications requiring
short stroke, high thrust single acting actuators.
Manufactured from fabric reinforced synthetic rubber in one,
two or three convolutions according to stroke and model.
They incorporate no reciprocating metal parts and so provide
virtually frictionless thrust compared with conventional
pneumatic cylinders.
All models are single acting only. The return stroke is provided
in part by the natural spring action of the bellows but
more usually by the load itself.
The simplicity of construction provides an extremely long,
virtually maintenance-free service life even under arduous
conditions.
Air bellows are suitable for vibration applications i.e. device
feeders at high frequency.

Versions
Air bellows are available with aluminium or steel end plates
and support rings depending upon type

Operation
Due to their flexible construction the mounting of Air Bellows
is less critical than with conventional pneumatic cylinders,
which normally require rigid fixing and guidance and provide
only one axis within a limit of 15° between faces. Additionally
the axial location of the end plates may be off set by up to
10 mm.
When pressurised Air Bellows will follow the line of leased
resistance. Accordingly care must be taken with the mounting
geometry in angled applications.
When depressurised Air Bellows will fit in to surprisingly small
spaces, especially useful for clamping or moving awkwardly
shaped or very heavy loads.
In operation it is recommended that the unit is not allowed to
"bottom out" or achieve its maximum height. Various mechanical
devices may be employed to achieve this.