I-Purge®

MODULAR INFLATABLE BLADDER SYSTEM

US & FOREIGN PATENTS ISSUED & PENDING
CE APPROVED

THE MOST VERSATILE & ADAPTABLE SOLUTION FOR PIPE PURGING

ABOUT

FEATURES & BENEFITS

HOW IT WORKS

TYPES & SIZES

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FAQS

About

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The revolutionary, patent-pending I-Purge Modular Inflatable Bladder System is the most innovative and versatile pipe purging system available. I-Purge creates an impermeable seal to consume the least amount of purge gas during pipe purging and welding, saving time and money, while achieving consistent, high-quality welds.

Manufactured in the USA, this long-term, reusable bladder system enables operators to satisfy a myriad of purge requirements with one interchangeable solution. The I-Purge comes equipped with several highly advanced features such as its Quick Connect Fittings that snap-in place and allow easy assembly and disassembly of components. The I-Purge also features an extended length, high heat resistant harness that allows the bladders to be placed outside the heat affected zone and can also sufficiently accommodate any pre-heating or high heat applications.

These state-of-the-art features allow the operator to create multiple configurations, including a one sided pipe stopper and a reducer. Bladders are available in sizes ranging from 2 to 70″ (51-1778 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.

Ideal for fabrication shops, the I-Purge surpasses existing technology with its advanced design and provides the complete solution for all pipe purging needs.

The revolutionary, patent-pending I-Purge Modular Inflatable Bladder System is the most innovative and versatile pipe purging system available. I-Purge creates an impermeable seal to consume the least amount of purge gas during pipe purging and welding, saving time and money, while achieving consistent, high-quality welds.

Features and Benefits

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Features and Benefits

Inflatable Bladders Modules A & B
  • Manufactured in the USA from the highest quality materials
  • Inflated bladders create an impermeable, air tight seal on pipe wall
  • Spark resistant, durable exterior cover
  • Heavy-duty interior inflatable bag
  • Re-usable, long-lasting solution for purging multiple pipes of the same diameter
High Heat Extended 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 are available to accommodate heat affected zone (HAZ) during pre-heating and high heat applications
  • I-Purge sizes 36″ and greater are 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 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 gas consumption
  • Aids in maintenance of optimum seal on pipe wall
  • Prevents risk of over inflation
  • Low profile relief valve available on 2″ and 3″ models
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 purging
Separate Connections:

BLUE – Inflation of Bladders
Initial function is to inflate bladders then flood weld zone with noble gas

BLACK – Increase 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
  • 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 Reducer
  • Unlike other models with permanent fittings, a pipe reducer can be easily created by simply connecting two bladders of different, yet similar diameters
  • Combine different sizes to create unique pipe configurations
I-Purge Isolator Inflatable Pipe Stopper & Single Purge Bladder
  • The I-Purge 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 Works

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I-Purge 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 is fully assembled (i.e, Modules are securely connected to harness using quick connect fittings).

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

3. Connect inert gas lines to the BLUE and BLACK hoses.
BLUE gas hose is required to inflate the purge bladders.
BLACK gas hose is optional to expedite the purging process

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

5. Turn the gas supply on to inflate the bladders and purge the weld zone.
Recommended Flow Rates for Purging:
BLUE gas hose should transfer inert gas at 10-32 SCFH (5-15 LPM) for models 2″ – 34″ and 60 SCFH (28.5 LPM) for models 36″– 48″

6. Once a tight seal has been achieved, commence welding while maintaining flow rate.
Recommended Flow Rates During Welding:
BLUE gas hose should transfer inert gas at 15-30 SCFH (7.5-15 LPM)

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

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

Types & Sizes

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I-Purge Standard Inflatable Systems (Sold as Complete System)
Item No Dimensions Standard Harness Length Description
English Metric English Metric
ABLD 2 2″ 51 mm 11″ 279 mm 2″ I-Purge Double Purge Bag System with High Heat Harness
ABLD 3 3″ 76 mm 11″ 279 mm 3″ I-Purge Double Purge Bag System with High Heat Harness
ABLD 4 4″ 102 mm 11″ 279 mm 4″ I-Purge Double Purge Bag System with High Heat Harness
ABLD 5 5″ 127 mm 11″ 279 mm 5″ I-Purge Double Purge Bag System with High Heat Harness
ABLD 6 6″ 152 mm 11″ 279 mm 6″ I-Purge Double Purge Bag System with High Heat Harness
ABLD 8 8″ 203 mm 11″ 279 mm 8″ I-Purge Double Purge Bag System with High Heat Harness
ABLD 10 10″ 254 mm 12″ 305 mm 10″ I-Purge Double Purge Bag System with High Heat Harness
ABLD 12 12″ 305 mm 12″ 305 mm 12″ I-Purge Double Purge Bag System with High Heat Harness
ABLD 14 14″ 356 mm 16″ 406 mm 14″ I-Purge Double Purge Bag System with High Heat Harness
ABLD 16 16″ 406 mm 16″ 406 mm 16″ I-Purge Double Purge Bag System with High Heat Harness
ABLD 18 18″ 457 mm 16″ 406 mm 18″ I-Purge Double Purge Bag System with High Heat Harness
ABLD 20 20″ 508 mm 18″ 457 mm 20″ I-Purge Double Purge Bag System with High Heat Harness
ABLD 22 22″ 559 mm 18″ 457 mm 22″ I-Purge Double Purge Bag System with High Heat Harness
ABLD 24 24″ 610 mm 18″ 457 mm 24″ I-Purge Double Purge Bag System with High Heat Harness
ABLD 26 26″ 660 mm 20″ 509 mm 26″ I-Purge Double Purge Bag System with High Heat Harness
ABLD 28 28″ 711 mm 20″ 509 mm 28″ I-Purge Double Purge Bag System with High Heat Harness
ABLD 30 30″ 762 mm 20″ 509 mm 30″ I-Purge Double Purge Bag System with High Heat Harness
ABLD 32 32″ 813 mm 20″ 509 mm 32″ I-Purge Double Purge Bag System with High Heat Harness
ABLD 34 34″ 864 mm 20″ 509 mm 34″ I-Purge Double Purge Bag System with High Heat Harness
ABLD 36 36″ 914 mm 20″ 509 mm 36″ I-Purge Double Purge Bag System with High Heat Harness
ABLD 38 38″ 965 mm 36″ 914 mm 38″ I-Purge Double Purge Bag System with High Heat Harness
ABLD 40 40″ 1016 mm 36″ 914 mm 40″ I-Purge Double Purge Bag System with High Heat Harness
ABLD 42 42″ 1066 mm 36″ 914 mm 42″ I-Purge Double Purge Bag System with High Heat Harness
ABLD 44 44″ 1117 mm 36″ 914 mm 44″ I-Purge Double Purge Bag System with High Heat Harness
ABLD 46 46″ 1168 mm 42″ 1067 mm 46″ I-Purge Double Purge Bag System with High Heat Harness
ABLD 48 48″ 1219 mm 42″ 1067 mm 48″ I-Purge Double Purge Bag System with High Heat Harness
ABLD 50 50″ 1270 mm 42″ 1067 mm 50″ I-Purge Double Purge Bag System with High Heat Harness
ABLD 52 52″ 1321 mm 42″ 1067 mm 52″ I-Purge Double Purge Bag System with High Heat Harness
ABLD 54 54″ 1372 mm 42″ 1067 mm 54″ I-Purge Double Purge Bag System with High Heat Harness
ABLD 56 56″ 1422 mm 42″ 1067 mm 56″ I-Purge Double Purge Bag System with High Heat Harness
ABLD 58 58″ 1473 mm 42″ 1067 mm 58″ I-Purge Double Purge Bag System with High Heat Harness
ABLD 60 60″ 1524 mm 42″ 1067 mm 60″ I-Purge Double Purge Bag System with High Heat Harness
ABLD 62 62″ 1575 mm 42″ 1067 mm 62″ I-Purge Double Purge Bag System with High Heat Harness
ABLD 64 64″ 1626 mm 42″ 1067 mm 64″ I-Purge Double Purge Bag System with High Heat Harness
ABLD 66 66″ 1676 mm 42″ 1067 mm 66″ I-Purge Double Purge Bag System with High Heat Harness
ABLD 68 68″ 1727 mm 42″ 1067 mm 68″ I-Purge Double Purge Bag System with High Heat Harness
ABLD 70 70″ 1778 mm 42″ 1067 mm 70″ I-Purge Double Purge Bag System with High Heat Harness

Modular Components (ABLD-Size-MOD A and ABLD-Size-MOD B)Sold Separately

I-Purge Isolator®

Item No Dimensions Description
English Metric
ISO 2 2" 51 mm 2" I-Purge Isolator One-Sided Plug with 10' Hose and Valve
ISO 3 3" 76 mm 3" I-Purge Isolator One-Sided Plug with 10' Hose and Valve
ISO 4 4" 102 mm 4" I-Purge Isolator One-Sided Plug with 10' Hose and Valve
ISO 5 5" 127 mm 5" I-Purge Isolator One-Sided Plug with 10' Hose and Valve
ISO 6 6" 152 mm 6" I-Purge Isolator One-Sided Plug with 10' Hose and Valve
ISO 8 8" 203 mm 8" I-Purge Isolator One-Sided Plug with 10' Hose and Valve
ISO 10 10" 254 mm 10" I-Purge Isolator One-Sided Plug with 10' Hose and Valve
ISO 12 12" 305 mm 12" I-Purge Isolator One-Sided Plug with 10' Hose and Valve
ISO 14 14" 356 mm 14" I-Purge Isolator One-Sided Plug with 10' Hose and Valve
ISO 16 16" 406 mm 16" I-Purge Isolator One-Sided Plug with 10' Hose and Valve
ISO 18 18" 457 mm 18" I-Purge Isolator One-Sided Plug with 10' Hose and Valve
ISO 20 20" 508 mm 20" I-Purge Isolator One-Sided Plug with 10' Hose and Valve
ISO 22 22" 559 mm 22" I-Purge Isolator One-Sided Plug with 10' Hose and Valve
ISO 24 24" 610 mm 24" I-Purge Isolator One-Sided Plug with 10' Hose and Valve
ISO 26 26" 660 mm 26" I-Purge Isolator One-Sided Plug with 10' Hose and Valve
ISO 28 28" 711 mm 28" I-Purge Isolator One-Sided Plug with 10' Hose and Valve
ISO 30 30" 765 mm 30" I-Purge Isolator One-Sided Plug with 10' Hose and Valve
ISO 32 32" 813 mm 32" I-Purge Isolator One-Sided Plug with 10' Hose and Valve
ISO 34 34" 863 mm 34" I-Purge Isolator One-Sided Plug with 10' Hose and Valve
ISO 36 36" 914 mm 36" I-Purge Isolator One-Sided Plug with 10' Hose and Valve
ISO 38 38" 965 mm 38" I-Purge Isolator One-Sided Plug with 10' Hose and Valve
ISO 40 40" 1016 mm 40" I-Purge Isolator One-Sided Plug with 10' Hose and Valve
ISO 42 42" 1066 mm 42" I-Purge Isolator One-Sided Plug with 10' Hose and Valve
ISO 44 44" 1117 mm 44" I-Purge Isolator One-Sided Plug with 10' Hose and Valve
ISO 46 46" 1168 mm 46" I-Purge Isolator One-Sided Plug with 10' Hose and Valve
ISO 48 48" 1219 mm 48" I-Purge Isolator One-Sided Plug with 10' Hose and Valve
ISO 50 50" 1270 mm 50" I-Purge Isolator One-Sided Plug with 10' Hose and Valve
ISO 52 52" 1321 mm 52" I-Purge Isolator One-Sided Plug with 10' Hose and Valve
ISO 54 54" 1372 mm 54" I-Purge Isolator One-Sided Plug with 10' Hose and Valve
ISO 56 56" 1422 mm 56" I-Purge Isolator One-Sided Plug with 10' Hose and Valve
ISO 58 58" 1473 mm 58" I-Purge Isolator One-Sided Plug with 10' Hose and Valve
ISO 60 60" 1524 mm 60" I-Purge Isolator One-Sided Plug with 10' Hose and Valve
ISO 62 62" 1575 mm 62" I-Purge Isolator One-Sided Plug with 10' Hose and Valve
ISO 64 64" 1626 mm 64" I-Purge Isolator One-Sided Plug with 10' Hose and Valve
ISO 66 66" 1676 mm 66" I-Purge Isolator One-Sided Plug with 10' Hose and Valve
ISO 68 68" 1727 mm 68" I-Purge Isolator One-Sided Plug with 10' Hose and Valve
ISO 70 70" 1778 mm 70" I-Purge Isolator One-Sided Plug with 10' Hose and Valve

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 NA NA 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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Pipe Schedules

I-Purge is designed to fit pipe schedules for each nominal pipe diameter from schedule 5 to schedule 160.

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 at 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-Purge 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 custom lengths.

Use in Pre-Heated Pipe

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

Operating Temperature

The outer covering on the inflatable bags of I Purge are 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 can accommodate higher temperatures by attaching an extended length harness purchased separately.

Combining Modules of Different Sizes

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

Exceed Recommended Expansion Size

The user MUST NEVER exceed the recommended expansion size labeled on the I-Purge. The unit will not function properly following an over inflation. Refer to manual for details.

Overinflated Bladders

If you believe the bladders were overinflated and burst during operation, terminate gas flow immediately. Overinflation 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’s ISO Certified factory in the USA under the strictest quality control procedures.

I-Purge Isolator: Isolator Over Inflation

During some applications, the bladder component of the isolator may not be visible, therefore all I Purge 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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