I-Purge®X

MODULAR INFLATABLE BLADDER SYSTEM

US & FOREIGN PATENTS ISSUED & PENDING

CE APPROVED

EXPANDABLE & EXTENDABLE

ABOUT

FEATURES & BENEFITS

HOW IT WORKS

TYPES & SIZES

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FAQS

About

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The I-Purge X is the most adaptable and technologically advanced modular inflatable bladder system available to date.

The I-Purge X comes equipped with its revolutionary Bladder Expansion Technology (BET) that enables one unit to fit multiple pipe sizes. Bladders have the ability to expand and contract to fit each piping specification and are protected by a spark resistant exterior cover that does not combust when exposed to flames and sparks.

These state-of-the-art features allow the operator to create multiple configurations, including a one-sided pipe stopper and reducer. Bladders are available in sizes ranging from 2″- 3″ (51 mm – 76 mm) to 38″- 48″ (965 mm – 1219 mm) and may be purchased either individually or as a complete system, a distinct advantage should additional sizes be desired or a component need replacing.

Coupled with an extended length, high heat resistant harness; the I-Purge X is the most versatile pipe purging solution available and is ideal for fabrication shops and any environment with pipe accessibility. Manufactured in the USA from the highest quality materials, the I-Purge X is a reusable, long-term solution that is expandable, extendable, and simply extraordinary.

The I-Purge X comes equipped with its revolutionary Bladder Expansion Technology (BET) that enables one unit to fit multiple pipe sizes. Bladders have the ability to expand and contract to fit each piping specification and are protected by a spark resistant exterior cover that does not combust when exposed to flames and sparks.

Features and Benefits

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Features and Benefits

Inflatable Bladders Modules A & B
  • Equipped with proprietary Bladder Expansion Technology (BET) that enables one unit to fit multiple pipe sizes and schedules
  • Designed to expand and contract numerous times
  • Manufactured in the USA from the highest quality materials
  • Inflated bladders create an impermeable, air tight seal on pipe wall for multiple inflation dimensions
  • Spark resistant, durable exterior cover does not melt
  • Heavy-duty interior inflatable bag
  • Re-usable, long-term solution for purging multiple pipes of the same diameter
High Heat Extended Length Harnesses
  • Internal hose and protective external fiberglass sleeve capable of withstanding high temperatures
  • Flexible bridge harness easily navigates through pipes, including elbows and tees over 90°
  • Kink resistant hose assures continuous gas supply
  • Complete with luminescent indicator for accurate alignment at root gap
  • Various lengths of harnesses available to accommodate heat affected zone (HAZ) during pre-heating and high heat applications
  • I-Purge X 38″ to 48″ is equipped with a high flow harness to expedite inflation
Quick Connect Interchangeable Fittings
  • Push-button feature enables modules to snap-in-place in seconds
  • State-of-the-art technology allows for greater versatility and easy assembly – enabling the user to create multiple configurations
  • Easy change and replacement of components to avoid costly re-purchase of complete system, with spare parts available for separate purchase
  • Corrosion resistant proven lock mechanism for secure connection
Proprietary Relief Valve
  • Factory pre-set relief valves allow for precise flow rates while minimizing set-up time and reducing consumption
  • Aids in maintenance of optimum seal on pipe wall
  • Prevents risk of over inflation
  • Low profile relief valve available on 2″ and 3″ model
Inert Gas Diffuser
  • Patent-pending technology
  • Reduces turbulence by dispersing inert gas equally in all directions within the weld zone, improving weld quality and consistency
Tri-Flow Inner Tubing System (BLUE, BLACK & WHITE Hoses)
Multiple inlet/exhaust ports for faster, more efficient weld purging
 
 
Separate Connections:
BLUE– Inflation of Bladders
Initial function is to inflate bladders then flood weld zone with noble gas
 

BLACK – Gas Distribution Within Weld Zone
Designed to expedite purging, the secondary (BLACK) purge hose is used to flood the weld zone with inert gas and evacuate oxygen at a faster rate

WHITE – Exhaust Connection
Connect this hose to an Oxygen Monitor, such as Aquasol’s PRO OX®-100 that obtains readings down to 100 PPM (0.01%), for continuous or spot monitoring of oxygen in the weld zone

Pull Loops
  • Strong pull loops can be connected to a rope or chain to insert or remove the I-Purge X
  • It is important that bladders be deflated before insertion or removal
  • Moderate tension (approx. 5 lbs.) should be applied on pull-wires to prevent sagging of the harness during installation and operation
Carrying Bag
  • When welding is complete, bladders can be deflated, extracted, cleaned and stored in the provided carrying bag
  • Carrying bag protects the bladder when not in use from dust and debris in most industrial work environments, prolonging life
I-Purge X Reducer
  • Unlike other models with permanent fittings, a pipe reducer can be easily created by either inflating the unit to two different dimensions or simply connecting two bladders of different, yet similar diameters
  • Combine different sizes to create unique pipe configurations
I-Purge X Isolator Inflatable Pipe Stopper & Single Purge Bladder
  • The I-Purge X Isolator is designed to function as a pipe plug for a wide range of applications, including purging of valves or tanks, as well as non-purging applications such as pipe system sealing for servicing, cleaning and inspection
  • Constructed of heavy-duty materials designed to withstand the extreme conditions of the petrochemical, utility and construction industries
I-Purge® Isolator Adaptors:

Make the most out of our modular design!

Convert your I-Purge® two bag systems into one-sided isolators for challenging weld geometry. Both our I-Purge® and I-Purge ®X bladders are convertible with our innovative modular design!

I-Purge® Mod-A Adaptor:             A quick connect diffuser for your Mod-A I-Purge® bladder

I-Purge® Mod-B Adaptor:             A length of hose with fittings to hook your I-Purge® Mod B bladder to your Argon tank

How I-Purge X Works

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How I-Purge X Works

I-Purge X Modular System Components: Equipped with the most Advanced Interchangeable Components

1. Module A
2. Module B
3. Quick Connection to Module B
4. Fiberglass High Heat Bridge Harness

5. Quick Connection to Module A
6. Relief Valve
7. Direct Purge (BLACK) Hose
8. Exhaust Monitor Connection

9. Inflation & Purge (BLUE) Hose
10. Luminescent Indicator
11. Pull Loops
12. Gas Diffuser

Quick Instruction Guide

1. Ensure I-Purge X is fully assembled (i.e, modules are securely connected to harness)

2. If necessary, connect rope, chain, or wire to the pull loops on the ends of the bladder modules. This will allow you easy insertion and removal of the system.

3. Connect inert gas lines to the BLUE and BLACK hoses

4. BLUE gas hose is required to inflate the purge bladders

5. BLACK gas hose is optional to expedite the purging process

6. Position the purge unit in the pipe using the luminescent indicator as a guide to center the system across the root gap

7. Turn the BLUE gas hose on to inflate the bladders and purge the weld zone.

8. Always maintain a consistent flow rate during inflation, purging, and welding.

9.For sizes 2″-36″ BLUE gas hose should transfer inert gas at 30 SCFH (15 LPM) only. For sizes 38″-48″ BLUE gas hose should transfer inert gas at 60 SCFH (28.5 LPM) only.

10. Once a tight seal has been achieved, commence welding

11. After the weld is complete, turn off the gas supply to deflate the bladders. Once the heat zone has sufficiently cooled, remove I-Purge X from the pipe. Be sure to disconnect all gas lines and monitoring equipment.

12. Clean I-Purge X and store in the provided carrying bag when it is not in use

Types & Sizes

I-PurgeX Modular Inflatable System (Sold as Complete System)
Item No Minimum Diameter Maximum Diameter Standard Harness Length Description
English Metric English Metric English Metric
XABLD 2-3 2″ 51 mm 3″ 76 mm 11″ 279 mm 2-3″ I-Purge X Expandable Double Purge Bag System with High Heat Harness
XABLD 4-6 4″ 102 mm 6″ 152 mm 11″ 279 mm 4-6″ I-Purge X Expandable Double Purge Bag System with High Heat Harness
XABLD 8-12 8″ 203 mm 12″ 305 mm 11″ 279 mm 8-12″ I-Purge X Expandable Double Purge Bag System with High Heat Harness
XABLD 14-18 14″ 356 mm 18″ 457 mm 16″ 406 mm 14-18″ I-Purge X Expandable Double Purge Bag System with High Heat Harness
XABLD 20-26 20″ 509 mm 26″ 660 mm 18″ 457 mm 20-26″ I-Purge X Expandable Double Purge Bag System with High Heat Harness
XABLD 28-36 28″ 711 mm 36″ 914 mm 20″ 509 mm 28-36″ I-Purge X Expandable Double Purge Bag System with High Heat Harness
XABLD 38-48 38″ 965 mm 48″ 1219 mm 36″ 914 mm 38-48″ I-Purge X Expandable Double Purge Bag System with High Heat Harness
I-PurgeX Isolator®
Item No Dimensions Description
English Metric
XISO 2-3 2-3" 51-76 mm 2-3" I-Purge X Isolator One-Sided Plug with 10' Hose and Valve
XISO 4-6 4-6" 102-152 mm 4-6" I-Purge X Isolator One-Sided Plug with 10' Hose and Valve
XISO 8-12 8-12" 203-305 mm 8-12" I-Purge X Isolator One-Sided Plug with 10' Hose and Valve
XISO 14-18 14-18" 356-457 mm 14-18" I-Purge X Isolator One-Sided Plug with 10' Hose and Valve
XISO 20-26 20-26" 509-660 mm 20-26" I-Purge X Isolator One-Sided Plug with 10' Hose and Valve
XISO 28-36 28-36" 711-914 mm 28-36" I-Purge X Isolator One-Sided Plug with 10' Hose and Valve
XISO 38-48 38-48" 965-1219 mm 38-48" I-Purge X Isolator One-Sided Plug with 10' Hose and Valve
I-Purge X Modular System Components (Sold as Seperate Parts)
Item No. Module A Item No. Module B Dimensions Description
English Metric
XABLD-2 MOD A XABLD-2 MOD B 2" 51 mm 2" I-Purge X Module A or B
XABLD-4 MOD A XABLD-4 MOD B 4" 102 mm 4" I-Purge X Module A or B
XABLD-8 MOD A XABLD-8 MOD B 8" 203 mm 8" I-Purge X Module A or B
XABLD-14 MOD A XABLD-14 MOD B 14" 356 mm 14" I-Purge X Module A or B
XABLD-20 MOD A XABLD-20 MOD B 20" 509 mm 20" I-Purge X Module A or B
XABLD-28 MOD A XABLD-28 MOD B 28" 711 mm 28" I-Purge X Module A or B
XABLD-38 MOD A XABLD-38 MOD B 38" 965 mm 38" I-Purge X Module A or B
Accessory Components Optional Harness Lengths
Item No Dimensions Description
English Metric
ABLD-ELH-24 24" 610 mm 24" (2′) Extended Length High Heat Harness
ABLD-ELH-36 36" 914 mm 36" (3′) Extended Length High Heat Harness
ABLD-ELH-48 48" 1219 mm 48" (4′) Extended Length High Heat Harness
ABLD-ELH-72 72" 1828 mm 72" (6′) Extended Length High Heat Harness
ABLD-ELH-CUSTOM Any Size Any Size Custom Lengths Available Upon Request
ABLD-CNADP N/A N/A 1/4" Female MPT to 1/4 Female BSPP Conversion

Watch Video

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Video Playlist
1/3 videos
1
Inflatable purge bladder for pipe welding — IPurge & IPurge X (Overview)
Inflatable purge bladder for pipe welding — IPurge & IPurge X (Overview)
04:13
2
Purge system for TIG welding — Assembly of inflatable purge bags
Purge system for TIG welding — Assembly of inflatable purge bags
02:51
3
Inflatable purge bags for TIG welding — Operation Instructions
Inflatable purge bags for TIG welding — Operation Instructions
03:07

FAQs

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Expandable Bladders to Fit Multiple Pipe Schedules

One I-Purge X unit can expand to fit multiple pipe sizes, and all pipe schedules that correspond with a pipe’s diameter. An 8″ to 12″ I-Purge X can fit any pipe sizes in between this range. The range of sizes is displayed on Module A of the system. Although I-Purge X is expandable, it is important not to overinflate the bladders as they can burst, causing damage to the unit.

No Tools Required

No tools are required when configuring the system. To assemble or disassemble the modules from the harness, simply press on the quick connect fitting at the end of each side of the harness and remove or connect.

Bridge Harness

The bridge harness is the connecting hose between the two inflatable bladders. It is comprised of a flexible braided fiberglass shielding over a high-heat resistant inner tube.

The central point of the bridge harness is marked with a luminescent indicator to easily align the center of the unit with the root gap. It is important to position the bladders equal distances from the weld joint to prevent over heating of one side, which could rupture or damage the bladder.

Extended Harnesses

Extended length harnesses offer flexibility to extend placement of the inflatable bladders outside the heat affected zone (HAZ) and to accommodate pre-heating (high-heat) welding applications. Extended length harnesses are available in standard sizes including 12″ (305 mm), 24″ (610 mm), 36″ (914 mm), 48″ (1219 mm) and 72″ (1828 mm). I-PurgeX sizes 36″ and greater are equipped with a high flow harness to expedite inflation. Custom lengths are available upon request.

Heat Affected Zone (HAZ)

To prevent exposure to the HAZ, use an extended length harness appropriate for the situation. These harnesses are sold separately and are available in many custom lengths.

Use in Pre-Heated Pipe

I-Purge X CAN be used in a pre-heated pipe. For pre-heating and high-heat applications, select an appropriate size of an extended length harness to ensure placement outside of the heat-affected zone (HAZ).

Operating Temperature

The outer covering on the inflatable bags of I Purge X is the only component which should come into direct contact with the pipe. This material is infused with spark resistant elements which prevent it from catching fire when exposed to sparks and exceedingly hot objects. The outside material of the bladders can withstand temperatures as high as 400°F (205°C). Since the inside of the bladder has a lower heat resistance, it is advisable not to exceed a temperature of 250°F (120°C) for proper operation of the entire system.

I-Purge X can accommodate higher temperatures (such as those in pre-heating welding) applications by attaching an extended length bridge harness purchased separately.

Combining Modules of Different Sizes

I-Purge X offers the flexibility of combining modules of different sizes to create a unique configuration. For example, a 4-6″ (102 mm to 152 mm) module A can be connected to a 8-12″ (203 mm to 305 mm) module B.

Overinflated Bladders

If you believe the bladders were overinflated during operation, terminate gas flow immediately. When the bladders do not hold air, they may have been overinflated, causing them to burst. This can be prevented by adhering to the flow rates listed in the manual.  Aquasol® does not warrant any overinflation system failures. For more details, review Warranty and System Operation sections of the manual.

I-Purge and I-Purge X Component Exchange

I-Purge X and I-Purge (standard) components CANNOT be interchanged. The calibration of the relief valve on I-Purge X is different from the standard I-Purge.

Certifications

The CE approved I-Purge Modular Inflatable Purge Bladder is manufactured at Aquasol® Corporation’s ISO Certified factory in the USA under the strictest quality control procedures.

I Purge X Isolator: Isolator Over Inflation

During some applications, the bladder component of the isolator may not be visible, therefore all I Purge X Isolator® units are equipped with a pressure relief valve to prevent over inflation of the unit. Therefore, a constant supply of gas must be maintained to keep a tight seal on the pipe wall (Refer to Isolator – System Operation).

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