Aquasol I-Purge X (I-PurgeX) Multi-Size Purge Bladders

Description

I-PurgeX component schematic

Multi-size weld purge bladders for 2–70 in. pipe

I-PurgeX multi-size weld purge bladders use an expanding bladder design so one XABLD system can cover a range of pipe diameters. This reduces the number of dedicated purge systems required when fabrication work moves between sizes.

Nine system sizes cover pipe from 2 to 70 in. (51–1778 mm). When inflated, the bladder modules form a contained purge zone around the weld joint, reducing the volume that needs to be filled with inert gas. Reusable components and heat-resistant harness options make the system practical for fabrication teams in the USA and Canada.

XABLD vs. ABLD: which system suits the job?

Choose an XABLD I-PurgeX system when a single adjustable size needs to cover several pipe diameters—for example, XABLD 8–12 covers 8 to 12 in. pipe. Choose a dedicated I-Purge ABLD system when repeat work is consistently performed on one nominal pipe size and individual modules are preferred.

Key I-PurgeX features

• Adjustable bladder modules sized to cover multiple pipe diameters
• Durable, spark-resistant outer covers with heavy-duty inflatable inner bags
• Quick-connect fittings for assembly, configuration changes and replacement components
• Relief valves that help maintain the pipe-wall seal and limit over-inflation
• A gas diffuser to spread inert gas through the weld zone and reduce turbulence
• Separate blue, black and white hose connections for inflation/purge, direct purge and exhaust monitoring

High-heat harness options

Quick-connect modular fittings

Push-button couplings let operators join and separate modules efficiently. The corrosion-resistant locking mechanism supports secure connections, and individual components can be selected when an existing setup needs replacement or expansion.

Relief valve and gas diffuser

Preset relief valves assist with controlled inflation and help protect the seal at the pipe wall. The diffuser distributes inert gas around the weld zone to support a more even purge environment. Low-profile relief valves are available on the 2–3 in. models.

Three hose connections

• Blue hose: inflates the bladders, then supplies purge gas to the weld zone.
• Black hose: provides an additional direct-purge path to improve gas distribution and help evacuate oxygen.
• White hose: provides an exhaust connection for an oxygen monitor when continuous or spot checks are required.

Why use an oxygen monitor with purge bladders?

I-PurgeX bladders create a controlled purge chamber and reduce the volume of gas needed around the weld. An oxygen monitor verifies residual oxygen at the exhaust through the white hose before welding begins.

Purging for a fixed time is not a reliable measurement. Air can remain trapped because of turbulence, an imperfect seal, pipe geometry or poor venting. A monitor gives the operator an actual oxygen reading, helping confirm that the purge has reached the level required by the welding procedure.

This matters because oxygen at the weld root can cause backside oxidation (“sugaring”), reduce corrosion resistance and create an unsuitable finish for critical food-processing, pharmaceutical, aerospace and high-purity piping work. Monitoring also avoids wasted argon and lost time from purging longer than necessary.

Select the monitor that matches the procedure: use the POM-100B where 100 ppm resolution meets the requirement, or the POM-5B where a 5 ppm resolution threshold is required.

Frequently asked questions

How many pipe sizes can an I-PurgeX system cover?

The product line has nine XABLD ranges, collectively covering 2 to 70 in. pipe. Each part number lists its minimum and maximum usable diameter in the table below.

When should I choose I-PurgeX rather than a dedicated I-Purge system?

I-PurgeX is useful when pipe diameters vary across a defined range. A dedicated I-Purge ABLD system is usually the simpler choice for frequent work on one pipe size.

Can I use it for high-temperature welding work?

The heat-resistant extended harness is designed to keep the bladder modules away from the heat-affected zone. Choose a harness length appropriate to the welding procedure and pipe configuration.

Is I-Purge X the same as I-PurgeX?

Yes. Both spellings refer to the same Aquasol multi-size purge bladder system, sold under XABLD part numbers.

Who makes I-Purge purge bladders?

I-Purge and I-Purge X purge bladder systems are made by Aquasol Corporation.

Types & Sizes

I-PurgeX Modular Inflatable System (Sold as Complete System)

Part #	Min Dia Inch	Min Dia mm	Max Dia Inch	Max Dia mm	Standard Harness Inch	Standard Harness mm
XABLD 2-3	2″	51 mm	3″	76 mm	11″	279 mm
XABLD 4-6	4″	102 mm	6″	152 mm	11″	279 mm
XABLD 8-12	8″	203 mm	12″	305 mm	11″	279 mm
XABLD 14-18	14″	356 mm	18″	457 mm	16″	406 mm
XABLD 20-26	20″	508 mm	26″	660 mm	18″	457 mm
XABLD 28-36	28″	711 mm	36″	914 mm	20″	508 mm
XABLD 38-48	38″	965 mm	48″	1219 mm	36″	914 mm
XABLD 50-58	50″	1270 mm	58″	1473 mm	42″	1067 mm
XABLD 60-70	60″	1524 mm	70″	1778 mm	42″	1067 mm

Part numbers are also written without the space, e.g. XABLD2-3, XABLD4-6, XABLD8-12, XABLD14-18, XABLD20-26, XABLD28-36, XABLD38-48, XABLD50-58, XABLD60-70.

Accessory Components Optional Harness Lengths

Spare parts: replacement Module A and Module B bladders and extended high-heat harnesses are sold separately.

Item No	Length (in)	Length (mm)	Description
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