Exhaust manifold assembly, method for installing a bellows in an exhaust manifold assembly, and internal combustion engine system

Abstract

Exhaust manifold assembly for use in the piping of exhaust gas from an internal combustion engine, the exhaust manifold assembly comprising the following: a first distribution section (114) which includes the following: a first device (115) that determines a first fluid passage, a first annular flange (154) arranged around a circumference of one end (156) of the first device part (114), wherein the first annular flange (154) has a first sealing surface (158), and a first annular shoulder (160) extending axially outwards from the first sealing surface (158), wherein the first annular shoulder (160) comprises a first outer radial surface (176) defining sealing retention elements (178); a first seal (150) which is arranged adjacent to the first sealing surface (158) and is held by the sealing retention elements (178), a second distribution section (116) which includes the following: a second device component (117) that determines a second fluid passage, a second annular flange arranged around the circumference of one end of the second device part (117), the second annular flange having a second sealing surface, and a second annular shoulder extending axially outwards from the second sealing surface, wherein the second annular shoulder comprises a second outer radial surface defining sealing retention elements; a second seal, which is arranged adjacent to the second sealing surface and held by the sealing retention elements; and a bellows (124) extending between the first ring flange (154) and the second ring flange, wherein the bellows (124) fluidly couples the first and second fluid passages, wherein the bellows (124) is removably coupleable to each of the first and second distributor sections (114, 116).

Description

TECHNICAL AREA

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to the field of exhaust systems for internal combustion engines. BACKGROUND

[0002] Exhaust systems for internal combustion engines include exhaust manifolds, which are connected to the engine's cylinder heads. The exhaust manifolds collect afterburn material (e.g., exhaust gas) from several of the engine's cylinders and direct it to an exhaust pipe. During operation, the exhaust manifolds are subjected to highly variable temperatures. These temperature fluctuations cause the exhaust manifolds to expand and contract, which can stress and ultimately damage the manifolds, gaskets, and other components. Thermal expansion can be particularly problematic in large engines with correspondingly long exhaust manifolds. To address this, some engine exhaust systems utilize manifolds divided into multiple sections. These sections are coupled together using a flexible coupling, such as a bellows, which allows for expansion and contraction between the sections.

[0003] DE 34 27 998 A1 describes an exhaust pipe for motor vehicle engines. DE 10 47 529 A describes an exhaust pipe for multi-cylinder internal combustion engines. DE 296 06 683 U1 describes a connection between a component and a tubular pipe element. US 5 159 811 A describes a flexible coupling system for use in an engine manifold system. SUMMARY

[0004] Various embodiments relate to exhaust manifold assemblies for use in conveying exhaust gas from internal combustion engines. One exemplary exhaust system includes a first manifold section comprising a first device that defines a first fluid passage. A first annular flange is arranged around the circumference of one end of the first device. The first annular flange has a first sealing surface. An annular shoulder extends axially outward from the sealing surface. A second manifold section comprises a second device that defines a second fluid passage. A second annular flange is arranged around the circumference of one end of the second device. The second annular flange has a second sealing surface. A second annular shoulder extends axially outward from the sealing surface.A bellows extends between the first and second ring flanges and seamlessly couples the first and second fluid passages. The bellows can be removed and connected to either of the first and second distributor sections.

[0005] Several other embodiments relate to a method for installing a bellows in an exhaust manifold assembly for use in directing exhaust gas from an internal combustion engine. The method comprises providing an exhaust manifold assembly. The exhaust manifold assembly includes a first manifold section with a first annular flange. A first annular shoulder extends axially outward from the first annular flange. A second manifold section is spaced apart from the first manifold section. The second manifold section has a second annular flange. A second annular shoulder extends axially outward from the second annular flange. A bellows includes a third annular flange arranged around the circumference of a first end of the bellows. A fourth annular flange is arranged around the circumference of a second end of the bellows.A first seal is positioned against the first annular flange, and a second seal is positioned against the second annular flange. The procedure also involves compressing the bellows. Next, the bellows is positioned so that the third annular flange of the bellows contacts the first annular shoulder of the first distributor section, and the fourth annular flange of the bellows contacts the second annular shoulder of the second distributor section. Finally, the bellows is moved along the first and second annular shoulders until the third and fourth annular flanges of the bellows are aligned with the corresponding first and second annular flanges of the respective first and second distributor sections.

[0006] Several other embodiments relate to an internal combustion engine system. One exemplary system includes an internal combustion engine and first and second distributor assemblies, each connected to the engine's exhaust gas intake. Each of the first and second distributor assemblies comprises first and second distributor sections. Each of the first and second distributor sections has a mounting part and an annular flange arranged around the circumference of one end of the mounting part. An annular shoulder extends axially outward from each annular flange. A bellows fluidly couples the first and second distributor sections.

[0007] These and other characteristics, as well as the organization and nature of their activity, will become clear from the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, whereby identical elements in the various drawings described below have the same reference symbols throughout. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Fig. Figure 1 is a perspective view of a section of an exhaust system according to one embodiment. Fig. Figure 2 is a partial side view of the exhaust system of Fig. 1. Fig. Figure 3 is a partial cross-sectional view of the exhaust system of Fig. 2, taken along line 3-3. Fig. 4 is a partial exploded view in cross-section of an interface between the first distributor section and the first bellows of the exhaust system of the Fig. 1-3. Fig. Figure 5 illustrates how the first bellows connects to the first distributor section of the exhaust system. Fig. 1-4 is coupled. Fig. Figure 6 is a perspective view of the poem by Fig. 3-5. Fig. Figure 7 is a perspective view of the poetry of Fig. 3-6, which is positioned against the ring flange of the first distributor section. Fig. Figure 8 is a flowchart of a method for installing the bellows between exhaust manifold sections according to one embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0008] Fig. Figure 1 is a perspective view of a section of an exhaust system 100 according to one embodiment. As in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 1, the exhaust system comprises 100 first and second distributor assemblies 102, 104, which are operational and coupled in exhaust connection to the first and second cylinder heads 106, 108 of an engine. The first and second distributor assemblies 102, 104 are configured to transport exhaust gas from the respective first and second cylinder heads 106, 108 of the engine. The exhaust gas can be transported from the first and second distributor assemblies 102, 104 to various components (e.g., a turbocharger, an exhaust gas recirculation system, exhaust aftertreatment components, etc.) and finally released into the atmosphere. According to various embodiments, the engine can be a compression-ignition (e.g., diesel) or spark-ignition (e.g., gasoline, compressed natural gas) engine, etc. As shown in Figure 1, the exhaust system is configured to transport exhaust gas from the first and second cylinder heads 106, 108 of the engine. Fig. As shown in Figure 1, the exhaust system 100 is designed for use with a V-engine. However, the exhaust system 100 can be used similarly with engines that have inline or other cylinder configurations.

[0009] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, the first and second distributor assemblies 102, 104 generally extend along the first and second central axes 110, 112. The first and second central axes 110, 112 may be parallel or substantially parallel to a crankshaft of the engine (not shown). Each of the first and second distributor assemblies 102, 104 includes several distributor sections. For example, the first distributor assembly 102 includes first, second, third, fourth, and fifth distributor sections 114, 116, 118, 120, 122. Each of the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth distributor sections 114, 116, 118, 120, 122 has a device that defines a fluid passage extending through it. The first distributor assembly 102 also includes several bellows to fluidly couple each of the distributor sections.Specifically, a first bellows 124 couples the fluid passages of the first and second distributor sections 114, 116 (liquid); a second bellows 126 couples the fluid passages of the second and third distributor sections 116, 118 (liquid); a third bellows 128 couples the fluid passages of the third and fourth distributor sections 118, 120 (liquid); and a fourth bellows 130 couples the fluid passages of the fourth and fifth distributor sections 120, 122 (liquid). The bellows are typically compressed between the distributor sections, and seals (not shown) are installed between each distributor section / bellows interface to seal the interface (liquid). The first, second, third, and fourth bellows 124, 126, 128, 130 allow relative displacement between the distributor sections, both axially and transversely. For example, manifold sections can shift due to thermal expansion, vibration, slight misalignment during installation, etc.They exhibit a relative displacement between each other. The bellows allow such displacement, which could otherwise damage conventional, one-piece exhaust manifolds.

[0010] The distributor sections and the bellows can be detachably coupled in various ways. In one embodiment, as shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, V-bands or "Marman clamps" are used to detachably couple the manifold sections and the bellows, and to compress and hold the seals between them. In other embodiments, the flanges of the respective manifold sections and the bellows are bolted together. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, a first V-band terminal 132 connects the first distributor section 114 removable to a first end of the first bellows 124, a second V-band terminal 134 connects a first end of the second distributor section 116 removable to a second end of the first bellows 124, etc.

[0011] Conventionally, distributor assemblies are assembled sequentially from one end to the other or from the center outwards, compressing seals (not shown) between each distributor section / bellows interface. For example, to assemble the first distributor assembly 102, the first distributor section 114 is coupled to the first cylinder head 106, then the first bellows 124 is coupled to the first distributor section 114, then the second distributor section 116 is coupled to each of the first cylinder head 106 and the first bellows 124, and so on. Alternatively, the first distributor assembly 102 can be installed from the other end. For example, the fifth distributor section 122 is coupled to the first cylinder head 106, then the fourth bellows 130 is coupled to the fifth distributor section 122, then the fourth distributor section 120 is coupled to each of the first cylinder head 106 and the fourth bellows 130, etc.In another example, the first distributor assembly 102 can be installed from the center outwards. For example, the third distributor section 118 is coupled to the first cylinder head 106; then the second and third bellows 126, 128 are coupled to corresponding ends of the third distributor section 118; then the second distributor section 116 is coupled to the first cylinder head 106 and the second bellows 126, and the fourth distributor section 120 is coupled to the first cylinder head 106 and the third bellows 128, and so on.

[0012] From time to time, the exhaust system, or sections thereof, may need to be removed for engine and / or exhaust system maintenance. For example, a cylinder head or gasket may need to be repaired or replaced, or a bellows or distributor gasket may need to be repaired or replaced. However, removing bellows during maintenance can be difficult. One way to remove a bellows is to remove all distributor sections and bellows adjacent to one side of the distributor section. However, this procedure is labor-intensive and time-consuming and may require the removal of other adjacent components. Another option is to remove the bellows without removing adjacent distributor sections. This is also difficult, however, as the bellows must be compressed to remove it and then again to reinstall it.Specialized maintenance tools can be used for this process; however, these tools can be expensive and may not be available to all workshops. Consequently, providing access to these specialized tools for every service technician incurs significant additional costs. Furthermore, different bellows sizes and configurations may require different tools. Additionally, if the bellows is removed without removing the adjacent manifold sections, it can be difficult to hold and position the seal when reinstalling the bellows. For example, the bellows flange may damage or displace the seal during installation, compromising its sealing ability.

[0013] According to various embodiments, an exhaust manifold sealing surface is provided for improved bellows installation. The manifold section includes a shoulder or guide pin that extends axially outward from a sealing surface of an annular flange of the manifold section. The shoulder is configured to act as a guide for the bellows flange to move (e.g., slide) as it is compressed and installed between the manifold sections, thus protecting the gasket from damage by the bellows. The shoulder also includes gasket retaining elements to hold the gasket in position during bellows installation. The shoulder is dimensioned so that the bellows flange does not touch or interfere with the gasket during bellows installation.Although the embodiments described herein include sealing surfaces for exhaust manifolds, other embodiments include sealing surfaces for other fluid passages or pipe connections.

[0014] For example, certain embodiments involve sealing connections of exhaust pipes downstream of the manifold. Additionally, some embodiments include flexible connections or couplings other than bellows.

[0015] Fig. 2 is a partial view of the exhaust system 100 of Fig. 1, including the first and second distributor sections 114, 116; the first bellows 124; and the first and second V-band clamps 132, 134. The first distributor section 114 includes a first device 115. The first device 115 defines a first fluid passage (not shown) extending through it. Similarly, each of the second distributor section 116 and the first bellows 124 includes respective second and third device assemblies 117, 119. The second and third device assemblies 117, 119 each define a second and a third fluid passage (not shown) extending through them.

[0016] Fig. Figure 3 is a partial cross-sectional view of the exhaust system 100 of Fig. 2, recorded along line 3-3. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 3, the first bellows 124 fluidly couples the first and second distributor sections 114, 116. The first bellows 124 includes a first sleeve section 135, which defines a first flange 136 extending radially outward from the first sleeve section 135 at a first end 138 of the first bellows 124. The first bellows 124 also includes a second sleeve section 140, which similarly defines a second flange 142 extending radially outward from a second end 144 of the first bellows 124. The first and second sleeve sections 135, 140 are separated by a gap 146. The first and second sleeve sections 135, 140 can be made of metal (e.g., steel or aluminum), be polymer-based, bent from composite tubing, or otherwise formed, as shown in Figure 3. Fig. Figure 3 illustrates this. In some designs, thermal requirements may be decisive for material selection, for example. Similarly, some designs incorporate couplings other than bellows.

[0017] The first bellows 124 also includes a flexible element 148 that couples the first and second sleeve sections 135, 140 and is arranged on an outer circumference thereof. The flexible element 148 can be fixedly attached (e.g., connected, glued, etc.) to the outer circumference of each of the first and second sleeve sections 135, 140. The flexible element 148 can be made of rubber or other flexible materials. As shown in Fig. As shown in Figure 3, the flexible element 148 can include a corrugated or curved surface, which improves the flexibility of the flexible element 148. For example, the flexible element 148 of the first bellows 124, as well as the gap 146 between the first and second sleeve sections 135, 140, allows the first bellows 124 to expand, contract, and otherwise move axially and transversely due to thermal expansion, vibration, misalignment, etc.

[0018] Fig. Figure 4 is a partial exploded view in cross-section of an interface between the first distributor section 114 and the first bellows 124 of the exhaust system 100. Fig. 1-3. In addition to the first distributor section 114 and the first bellows 124, the interface also includes a seal 150 and a holder 152 of the first bellows 124. It should be clarified that only one section of the interface in Fig. Figure 4 shows that each of the first distributor section 114, the first bellows 124, the seal 150 and the bracket 152 runs in a ring shape around the first central axis 110 ( Fig. 1) However, the first distributor section 114 and the first bellows 124 do not have to be ring-shaped around the first central axis 110 over their entire length ( Fig. 1) extend. Instead, each of the distributor sections and bellows, including the first distributor section 114 and the first bellows 124, may include bends or curves.

[0019] The first distributor section 114 includes an annular flange 154, which is arranged around the circumference of a first end 156 of the first distributor section 114 and extends radially outwards from it. The annular flange 154 defines a sealing surface 158.

[0020] The first distributor section 114 also includes an annular shoulder 160 that extends axially outward from the sealing surface 158. The annular shoulder 160 is positioned radially inward from the sealing surface 158. The annular flange 154 also defines a notch 162 that extends axially inward from the sealing surface 158 on a radially outer section of the annular flange 154. A chamfered edge 164 extends between the sealing surface 158 and the notch 162.

[0021] The first flange 136 of the first bellows 124 defines a sealing surface 166. In operation, the seal 150 is positioned between the sealing surface 158 of the first distributor section 114 and the sealing surface 166 of the first bellows 124 to provide a fluid seal between them. For example, the bracket 152 is configured to engage with the first flange 136 of the first bellows 124 to compress the seal 150 between the sealing surfaces 158 and 166 of the first distributor section 114 and the first bellows 124. The seal 150 can be made of any of several materials, such as graphite, rubber, silicone, polymers, etc. In some embodiments, the seal 150 is deformable, compressible, and / or elastic. The bracket 152 also includes a lip 165 that extends into the notch 162 of the annular flange 154.

[0022] Returning briefly to Fig. 3 The first V-band clamp 132 includes an inner surface 167 configured to engage an outer clamping surface 168 of the bracket 152 and an outer clamping surface 170 of the ring flange 154 of the first distributor section 114. During assembly, the V-band clamp forces the first flange 136 of the first bellows 124 toward the ring flange 154 of the first distributor section 114 to compress the seal 150 between the corresponding sealing surfaces 158, 166 of the respective flanges 136, 154.

[0023] With reference to Fig. Figure 5 illustrates the first bellows 124, which is coupled to the first distributor section 114. To install the first bellows 124 between the first and second distributor sections 114, 116, the first bellows 124 is compressed, and the sealing surface 166 of the first bellows 124 is positioned against the annular shoulder 160 of the first distributor section 114. The annular shoulder 160 is configured to act as a guide pin or guide to prevent the first flange 136 of the first bellows 124 from contacting and / or damaging the seal 150 when the first bellows 124 is coupled to the first distributor section 114. The annular shoulder 160 extends axially outward from the sealing surface 158 of the first distributor section 114 by a first length. The first length of the annular shoulder 160 is dimensioned to provide a space between the first flange 136 of the first bellows 124 and the seal 150.In one embodiment, the first length is at least twice the thickness of the seal 150. In another embodiment, the first length is at least three times the thickness of the seal 150. In some embodiments, the first length further depends on a diameter of the first bellows 124. The first length may also depend, among other factors, on the size of the sealing surface 158 and / or the width of the seal 150. The annular shoulder 160 may include a radius or chamfer to help guide the first flange 136 of the first bellows 124 onto the annular shoulder 160.

[0024] Fig. Figure 6 is a perspective side view of seal 150. Fig. 3-5. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 6, in some embodiments the seal 150 includes one or more retaining ribs 172 which extend radially inwards from an inner radial surface 174 of the seal 150.

[0025] Fig. 7 is a perspective view of the poem 150 of the Fig. 3-6, which is positioned against the ring flange 154 of the first distributor section 114. As in Fig. As illustrated in Figure 7, the annular shoulder in one embodiment includes an outer radial surface 176 that defines retaining elements 178 extending radially inward from the outer radial surface 176. The retaining elements 178 are dimensioned, shaped, and positioned to receive the retaining ribs 172 of the seal 150. The interface between the retaining ribs 172 and the retaining elements 178 causes the seal 150 to be held against the annular flange 154 of the first distributor section 114 when the first bellows 124 is coupled to the first distributor section 114. In some embodiments, the retaining elements 178 include dimples positioned around the outer radial surface 176. In other embodiments, the retaining elements 178 include a notch extending radially inward from the outer radial surface 176.The dimples can restrict the rotational position of the seal 150, while the notch can allow rotation of the seal 150. In some embodiments, the seal 150 has an inner diameter that is equal to or slightly smaller than the outer diameter of the annular shoulder 160, so that an interference fit between the seal 150 and the annular shoulder 160 further ensures that the seal 150 is held against the annular flange 154 of the first distributor section 114. Accordingly, the annular flange 154 and the seal 150 overcome problems associated with conventional exhaust bellows systems, which relate to seals being misaligned or displaced during bellows installation.

[0026] Fig.Figure 8 is a flowchart of a method 200 for installing a bellows between exhaust manifold sections according to one embodiment. For example, the method 200 can be carried out to install the first bellows 124 between the first and second manifold sections 114, 116. However, the method 200 is not limited to this embodiment and can be carried out similarly using other components.

[0027] In 202, an exhaust system is provided. The exhaust system includes first and second distributor sections and a bellows. In one embodiment, the first distributor section includes a first annular flange and a first annular shoulder extending axially outward from the first annular flange. The second distributor section is spaced apart from the first distributor section. The second distributor section includes a second annular flange and a second annular shoulder extending axially outward from the second annular flange. The bellows includes third and fourth annular flanges. The third annular flange is arranged around the circumference of a first end of the bellows. The fourth annular flange is arranged around the circumference of a second end of the bellows.

[0028] In part 204, seals are positioned against the first and second ring flanges. More precisely, a first seal is positioned against the first ring flange and a second seal is positioned against the second ring flange. Each of the first and second seals can be positioned against the sealing surfaces of the respective first and second ring flanges.

[0029] At 206, the bellows is compressed. Since the bellows is flexible, it can be compressed by pressing the first and second ends of the bellows against each other.

[0030] At 208, the bellows is positioned so that the third ring flange of the bellows touches the first annular step of the first distributor section and the fourth ring flange of the bellows touches the second annular step of the second distributor section.

[0031] Using tool 210, the bellows is moved (e.g., shifted) along the first and second annular shoulders until the third and fourth annular flanges of the bellows are aligned with the corresponding first and second annular flanges of the respective first and second distributor sections. The first and second annular shoulders are dimensioned to provide gaps between the third and fourth annular flanges of the bellows and the first and second seals. Accordingly, the first and second annular shoulders protect the first and second seals from damage during bellows installation.

[0032] Once the bellows is positioned and aligned between the first and second manifold sections, V-band clamps can be installed to hold the bellows in place. For example, with respect to the first manifold section, a bracket is positioned on an outer surface of the third ring flange of the bellows. A V-band clamp is positioned over each first ring flange of the first manifold section and the bracket. Finally, the V-band clamp is tightened to compress the seal between the first and third ring flanges. The bellows can be removed by reversing the procedure described above.

[0033] Although this document contains many specific implementation details, these should not be interpreted as limitations on the scope of what can be claimed, but rather as descriptions of features specific to particular implementations. Certain features described in this document in connection with separate implementations or embodiments may also be implemented in combination within a single implementation or embodiment, as should be understandable to a person skilled in the art. Conversely, various features described in the context of a single embodiment may also be implemented separately in several embodiments or in any suitable subcombination.Furthermore, although the foregoing features may be described in such a way as to function in certain combinations and may initially be claimed as such, in some cases one or more features from a claimed combination may be excluded from the combination, and the claimed combination may be directed to a subcombination or variation of a subcombination.

[0034] As used herein, the terms “essentially” and similar terms are intended to have a broad meaning consistent with their conventional and accepted use by the person skilled in the art in the field to which the subject matter to which this disclosure relates belongs. It should be obvious to the person skilled in the art reviewing this disclosure that these terms are intended to permit a description of certain described and claimed features without limiting the scope of those features to the precise numerical ranges provided, unless otherwise specified. Accordingly, these terms are to be interpreted as indicating that inessential or minor modifications or alterations to the described and claimed subject matter are to be considered to fall within the scope of the invention as set forth in the accompanying claims.Additionally, it is noted that limitations of the claims in the event that the term "means" is not used therein are not to be interpreted as "means plus function" limitations under US patent law.

[0035] The terms "coupled," "connected," and the like, as used herein, mean the direct or indirect connection of two components. This connection can be stationary (e.g., permanent) or movable (e.g., removable or detachable). This connection can be achieved by the two components, or the two components and any further intermediate components, being integrally formed as a single, unified body, or by the two components, or the two components and any further intermediate components, being attached to one another.

[0036] It is important to note that the design and arrangement of the system shown in the various exemplary implementations are merely illustrative and not limiting. It is desired that all changes and modifications falling within the spirit and / or scope of the described implementations be protected. It is understood that some features are not necessary and that implementations lacking these features are considered to be within the scope of the application, the scope being defined by the following claims. It is understood that the features described in one embodiment may also be integrated and / or combined with features from another embodiment in a manner that would be understandable to a person skilled in the art.It should also be noted that the terms “example” and “exemplary”, as used here to describe different embodiments, are intended to indicate that such embodiments are possible examples, representations and / or illustrations of possible embodiments (and that such terms are not necessarily intended to imply that such embodiments are exceptional or outstanding examples).

Claims

Exhaust manifold assembly for use in the ducting of exhaust gas from an internal combustion engine, the exhaust manifold assembly comprising: a first distributor section (114) comprising: a first device part (115) defining a first fluid passage, a first annular flange (154) arranged around a circumference of one end (156) of the first device part (114), the first annular flange (154) having a first sealing surface (158), and a first annular shoulder (160) extending axially outwards from the first sealing surface (158), the first annular shoulder (160) comprising a first outer radial surface (176) defining sealing retention elements (178);a first seal (150) arranged adjacent to the first sealing surface (158) and held by the sealing retention elements (178); a second distributor section (116) comprising: a second device part (117) defining a second fluid passage; a second annular flange arranged around a circumference of one end of the second device part (117), the second annular flange having a second sealing surface; and a second annular shoulder extending axially outward from the second sealing surface, the second annular shoulder comprising a second outer radial surface defining sealing retention elements; a second seal arranged adjacent to the second sealing surface and held by the sealing retention elements;and a bellows (124) extending between the first ring flange (154) and the second ring flange, wherein the bellows (124) fluidly couples the first and second fluid passages, wherein the bellows (124) is removably coupleable to each of the first and second distributor sections (114, 116). Exhaust manifold arrangement according to claim 1, wherein the first annular shoulder (160) is positioned radially inwards from the first sealing surface (158). Exhaust manifold arrangement according to claim 1, wherein the first annular shoulder (160) extends from the first sealing surface (158) by a first length, the first length of the first annular shoulder (160) being longer than a thickness of the first seal (150); and wherein the second annular shoulder extends from the second sealing surface by a second length, the second length of the second annular shoulder being longer than a thickness of the second seal. Exhaust manifold arrangement according to claim 3, wherein the first length of the first annular shoulder (160) is at least twice the thickness of the first seal (150) and wherein the second length of the second annular shoulder is at least twice the thickness of the second seal. Exhaust manifold arrangement according to claim 1, wherein the sealing retention elements 178 of the first outer radial surface (176) extend radially inwards from the first outer radial surface, and wherein the sealing retention elements of the second outer radial surface extend radially inwards from the second outer radial surface. Exhaust manifold arrangement according to claim 5, wherein the first seal (150) includes first retaining ribs (172) extending radially inwards from an inner radial surface of the first seal (150), wherein the first retaining ribs (172) are dimensioned and positioned to fit into the seal retention elements (178), and wherein the second seal includes second retaining ribs extending radially inwards from an inner radial surface of the second seal, wherein the second retaining ribs are dimensioned and positioned to fit into the seal retention elements. Exhaust manifold arrangement according to claim 3, wherein the bellows (124) comprises: a third device part (119) defining a third fluid passage; a third annular flange arranged around a circumference of a first end of the third device part (119), wherein the third annular flange of the bellows has a third sealing surface; and a fourth annular flange arranged around a circumference of a first end of the second device part, wherein the fourth annular flange of the bellows has a fourth sealing surface. Exhaust manifold arrangement according to claim 7, wherein in an assembled state the first seal is arranged between the first sealing surface of the first distributor section and the third sealing surface of the bellows and the second seal is arranged between the second sealing surface of the second distributor section and the fourth sealing surface of the bellows. Exhaust manifold arrangement according to claim 7, wherein the first annular shoulder (160) of the first distributor section (114) is dimensioned such that a gap is provided between the third annular flange of the bellows (124) and the first seal (150) when the bellows (124) is coupled to the first distributor section (114), and wherein the second annular shoulder of the second distributor section (116) is dimensioned such that a gap is provided between the fourth annular flange of the bellows (124) and the second seal when the bellows (124) is coupled to the second distributor section (116). Exhaust manifold assembly according to claim 7, further comprising: a holder (152) with a first outer clamping surface (168); and a V-band clamp (132) with an inner clamping surface (167) configured to engage, respectively, the first outer clamping surface (168) of the holder (152) and a second outer clamping surface (170) of the first annular flange of the first distributor section (116). Exhaust manifold assembly according to claim 10, wherein the 178 has an inner engagement surface that abuts the third annular flange of the bellows (124), wherein the V-band clamp (132) is configured to force the third annular flange of the bellows (124) towards the first annular flange (154) of the first distributor section (114) in order to compress the first seal (150) between the first and the third sealing surface (158, 166). Exhaust manifold arrangement according to claim 7, wherein the end of the second device part (117) of the second distributor section (116) is a first end and wherein the second distributor section (116) further comprises: a second end opposite the first end; a fifth annular flange arranged around a circumference of the second end of the second device part (117), the fifth annular flange having a fifth sealing surface; and a third annular shoulder extending axially outwards from the fifth sealing surface. Exhaust manifold assembly according to claim 12, wherein the bellows is a first bellows (124) and the exhaust manifold assembly further comprises: a third distributor section (118) comprising: a fourth device part defining a fourth fluid passage, a sixth annular flange arranged around a circumference of one end of the fourth device part, the sixth annular flange having a sixth sealing surface, and a fourth annular shoulder extending axially outwards from the sixth sealing surface; and a second bellows (126) extending between the fifth and sixth annular flanges and fluidically coupling the second and fourth fluid passages, the second bellows (126) being removably couplingable to each of the second and third distributor sections. Method (200) for installing a bellows (124) in an exhaust manifold assembly for use in directing exhaust gas from an internal combustion engine, the method comprising: providing (202) the exhaust manifold assembly, the exhaust manifold assembly comprising: a first distributor section (114) having a first annular flange (154) and a first annular shoulder (160) extending axially outward from the first annular flange (154); a second distributor section (116) spaced apart from the first distributor section (114), the second distributor section (116) having a second annular flange and a second annular shoulder extending axially outward from the second annular flange;and the bellows (124) comprising: a third annular flange arranged around the circumference of a first end of the bellows (124), and a fourth annular flange arranged around the circumference of a second end of the bellows (124); positioning (204) a first seal (150) against the first annular flange 154 and a second seal against the second annular flange; compressing (206) the bellows (124); positioning (208) the bellows (124) such that the third annular flange of the bellows (124) contacts the first annular shoulder (160) of the first distributor section (114) and the fourth annular flange of the bellows (124) contacts the second annular shoulder of the second distributor section (116);and moving (210) the bellows (124) along the first (160) and second annular shoulder until the third and fourth annular flanges of the bellows (124) are aligned with the corresponding first and second annular flanges of the respective first and second distributor sections (114, 116). Method (200) according to claim 14, wherein the first annular shoulder (160) is dimensioned to provide a space between the third annular flange of the bellows and the first seal, and the second annular shoulder is dimensioned to provide a space between the fourth annular flange of the bellows and the second seal when the bellows is moved along the first and second annular shoulders. Method according to claim 14, wherein the first annular flange (154) defines a first sealing surface (158), the second annular flange defines a second sealing surface, the third annular flange defines a third sealing surface and the fourth annular flange defines a fourth sealing surface, and wherein the first seal is positioned between the first and the third sealing surface and the second seal is positioned between the second and the fourth sealing surface. Method according to claim 16, wherein the first annular shoulder (160) is positioned radially inwards from the first sealing surface (158) and the second annular shoulder is positioned radially inwards from the second sealing surface. The method according to claim 16, further comprising aligning retaining ribs (172) of the first (150) and second seals with corresponding retaining elements (178) of the respective first and second annular shoulders, so that the first and second seals are held against the respective first and second sealing surfaces before the positioning of the bellows (124). The method of claim 14, further comprising: positioning a holder (152) against an outer surface of the third annular flange of the bellows (124); positioning a V-band clamp (132) over each first annular flange of the first distributor section (114) and the holder (152); and tightening the V-band clamp (132) to compress the seal (150) between the first annular flange and the third annular flange. Internal combustion engine system, comprising: an internal combustion engine;First and second distributor assemblies (102, 104), each in exhaust gas receiving communication with the internal combustion engine, each of the first and second distributor assemblies (102, 104) comprising: a first and a second distributor section (114, 116), each of the first and second distributor sections (114, 116) comprising a device part (115, 117) and an annular flange (154) arranged around a circumference of one end (156) of the device part (115, 117), and an annular shoulder extending axially outward from each annular flange, each annular shoulder comprising an outer radial surface (176) having sealing retaining elements (178), a first (150) and a second seal held by respective sealing retaining elements (178), and a bellows (124) comprising the first and second distributor sections (114, 116) fluid coupling.; System according to claim 20, wherein the ring flanges of each of the first and second distributor sections (114, 116) of each of the first and second distributor arrangements (102, 104) further comprise sealing surfaces. System according to claim 21, wherein each of the first and second seals (150) are positioned adjacent to the sealing surfaces of each of the first and second distributor sections (114, 116) and wherein the annular shoulders of each of the first and second distributor arrangements (114, 116) extend from the sealing surfaces by a length, wherein the length of each of the annular shoulders of each of the first and second distributor arrangements is greater than a thickness of one of the first and second seals. System according to claim 22, wherein the length of each of the annular steps of each of the first and second distributor arrangements (102, 104) is at least twice the thickness of one of the first and second seals (150). System according to claim 22, wherein the sealing retention elements of each of the outer radial surfaces extend radially inwards from the outer radial surface. System according to claim 24, wherein each of the first and second seals of each of the first and second distributor arrangements (102, 104) includes retaining ribs extending radially inwards from an inner radial surface of the respective seals, wherein the retaining ribs are dimensioned and positioned to fit into the seal retaining elements. System according to claim 22 wherein the bellows of each of the first and second distributor arrangements comprises a device part and annular flanges arranged around a circumference of the respective ends of the respective device part, wherein each of the annular flanges of the bellows of each of the first and second distributor arrangements has a sealing surface. System according to claim 26, wherein in an assembled state one of the first and second seals of each of the first and second distributor arrangements (102, 104) is positioned between the respective sealing surfaces of the respective first distributor section and the respective bellows, and the other of the first and second seals of each of the first and second distributor arrangements (102, 104) is positioned between the respective sealing surfaces of the respective second distributor section and the respective bellows. System according to claim 26, wherein the annular shoulders of each of the first and second distributor arrangements (102, 104) are dimensioned such that they provide spaces between the respective annular flanges of the respective bellows and the respective first and second seals when the respective bellows is coupled with the respective first and second distributor sections (102, 104). System according to claim 20, wherein the bellows (124) is a first bellows and wherein each of the first and second distributor arrangements (102, 104) further comprises: a fifth distributor section (122); and a second bellows (126) which fluidly couples the respective second and fifth distributor sections (122). System according to claim 20, wherein at least one of the first and second distributor arrangements (102, 104) includes at least four distributor sections and at least three bellows (124, 126, 128) which fluidly couple the at least four distributor sections.

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