Pu Xiong: Welding expert of accordion protective cover

In automated factories, the accordion-like folding and expanding protective covers often seen between operational robotic arms and precision machine tools serve as indispensable guardians in industrial production—bellows protective covers.

These protective covers are constructed from multi-layer special fabrics or polymer materials, achieving free expansion and contraction through an accordion-pleated structure, capable of extending up to five times their compressed length. The outer layer typically uses wear-resistant and flame-retardant PVC-coated fabric, while the internal framework is supported by aluminum alloy or engineering plastics, forming a three-dimensional protection system that combines rigidity and flexibility.

As the "protective armor" for industrial equipment, they effectively resist contaminants such as metal chips, coolant, and dust, finding wide applications in CNC machine tools, laser cutters, and welding robots. During reciprocating motions of equipment components, the folding structure maintains sealing integrity without restricting mechanical movement ranges, with specially designed drainage holes enabling prompt liquid discharge. Some high-end models integrate temperature sensors for real-time monitoring of equipment status.

With Industry 4.0 advancements, bellows covers have evolved into specialized variants featuring anti-static properties, high-temperature resistance (-40°C to +260°C), and oil mist resistance. Continuously enhancing protective capabilities in semiconductor manufacturing and food processing industries, they have become critical components ensuring long-term operation of precision equipment.