Weld Purge Bladders — Aquasol I-Purge & I-Purge X

Inflatable weld purge bladders seal the pipe on both sides of the joint, so you purge a small chamber instead of the whole line — less argon, shorter purge times and a clean root. We supply the Aquasol range for 2 to 70 in. (51–1778 mm) pipe: I-Purge modular systems sized to one pipe diameter, I-Purge X (I-PurgeX) multi-size systems that adjust across a range, and inflatable pipe stoppers for one-sided isolation.

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I-Purge or I-Purge X: which purge bladder system?

Aquasol I-Purge (ABLD)Aquasol I-Purge X (XABLD)
Pipe sizes2–70 in., one system per nominal size (ABLD 2 to ABLD 70)2–70 in. in nine adjustable ranges (XABLD 2-3 to XABLD 60-70)
Best forRepeat work on the same pipe sizeWork that moves between pipe sizes
High-heat harnessFiberglass bridge harness, 11–42 in. standard; 24, 36, 48, 72 in. or custom extendedSame
HosesBlue: inflate and purge · Black: direct purge · White: oxygen-monitor exhaustSame
Sold asComplete system; modules and harnesses also sold separatelyComplete system; components also sold separately

How a purge bladder system works

  1. Position the two bladder modules either side of the weld joint. The high-heat harness keeps them outside the heat-affected zone.
  2. Inflate through the blue hose. The relief valve limits pressure and holds the seal against the pipe wall.
  3. Argon then flows through the gas diffuser into the sealed chamber; the black hose adds a direct purge path.
  4. Read residual oxygen at the white exhaust hose with an Aquasol POM-100B or POM-5B monitor, and weld once it meets your procedure.
  5. Deflate and pull the system out by its pull loops — it is reusable.

Frequently asked questions

What size purge bladder do I need?

Choose the I-Purge system for your nominal pipe size, or the I-Purge X range that covers it; each part number lists its minimum and maximum diameter. Send us pipe size, schedule and material and we will confirm the part number.

Can purge bladders be used with preheat?

Yes. Extended high-heat harnesses (ABLD-ELH-24 to ABLD-ELH-72, or custom lengths) keep the bladders further from the heat.

Do I need an oxygen monitor?

Purging for a set time does not prove the oxygen is gone; trapped air, a poor seal or pipe geometry can leave enough to discolour the root. A monitor on the white exhaust hose gives a real reading. Compare weld purge monitors.

Can I buy replacement modules or harnesses?

Yes. Replacement modules, extended harnesses and the ABLD-CNADP adapter (1/4 in. female MPT to 1/4 in. female BSPP) are sold separately.

Guide: How to purge pipe with inflatable purge bladders, step by step.

Request a quote or call 1-866-277-0661.