Construction
The EPE bladder accumulator, generally designed &
manufactured according to European directive, comprises
a steel shell in which is fitted a bladder complete with a gas
valve and a fluid port with the poppet valve (Fig.2)
The accumulator shell is a pressure vessel forged or
fabricated from high grade steel designed and
manufactured to meet relevant international standards.
For special applications various surface coatings are
available as well as stainless steel construction.
The bladder construction which is unique to EPE is
moulded in a single piece thus obviating problems
associated with seamed construction. The gas valve is
fitted in such a manner which allows it to be connected
easily and safely. In addition the valve, not an integral part
of the bladder, can be re-used, thus reducing maintenance
costs.
Bladders are normally manufactured from nitrile, but for
special applications butyl, neoprene, ethylene-propylene
etc, are available.
The gas valve is connected to the bladder by a rubber
coated washer to ensure a gas tight joint and a non return
valve is incorporated for bladder inflation. The bladder,
complete with the gas valve is attached to the accumulator
shell by a lock nut, and the assembly is protected by a
cover.
Standard accumulators (types - AS / ASHF / ASWP) are installed with a poppet valve to prevent bladder from extruding out
of the fluid port while allowing fluid to flow. In low-pressure range (type-ASWD/ASLV/ASLVHF) the anti-extrusion valve is
installed.