Aerospace accumulators are devices that store energy in the form of compressed gas. They are used in various applications such as flight control systems, landing gear, and braking systems. Two basic configurations of aerospace accumulators are bellows and pistons. Both have their own set of advantages and disadvantages and are suited for different applications.
Bellows accumulators are made of a flexible metal or composite material that is shaped like bellows. They are typically smaller in size and lighter in weight compared to piston accumulators. They also have a higher energy density, which means they can store more energy in a smaller space. Bellows accumulators are typically used in applications where space and weight are critical, such as in aircraft and spacecraft.
Piston accumulators, on the other hand, are made of a cylinder and a piston that separates the gas from the fluid. They are typically larger in size and heavier than bellows accumulators. They also have a lower energy density, which means they require more space to store the same amount of energy. Piston accumulators are typically used in applications where the pressure needs to be controlled more precisely, such as in braking systems.
In terms of performance, bellows accumulators have a higher fatigue life and are less likely to leak compared to piston accumulators. However, piston accumulators are more suited for high-pressure applications and are better at maintaining consistent pressure.
In terms of which configuration is more common, it depends on the application. Bellows accumulators are more commonly used in aerospace applications due to their small size and high energy density. Piston accumulators, on the other hand, are more commonly used in industrial and mobile applications where precise pressure control is required.
In conclusion, both bellows and piston accumulators have their own set of advantages and disadvantages. The choice between the two depends on the specific requirements of the application. It is important to consider factors such as space, weight, pressure, and energy density when selecting the appropriate configuration for an aerospace application.