CA2785559A1 - Hydrant valve - Google Patents
Hydrant valve Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2785559A1 CA2785559A1 CA2785559A CA2785559A CA2785559A1 CA 2785559 A1 CA2785559 A1 CA 2785559A1 CA 2785559 A CA2785559 A CA 2785559A CA 2785559 A CA2785559 A CA 2785559A CA 2785559 A1 CA2785559 A1 CA 2785559A1
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- plug
- hydrant
- seat
- shaft
- valve
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
- 230000007246 mechanism Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 9
- XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N water Substances O XLYOFNOQVPJJNP-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 claims description 8
- 239000012530 fluid Substances 0.000 claims description 5
- 238000012423 maintenance Methods 0.000 claims description 3
- 238000003032 molecular docking Methods 0.000 claims description 3
- 238000000926 separation method Methods 0.000 claims description 3
- 238000005452 bending Methods 0.000 abstract description 5
- 230000013011 mating Effects 0.000 abstract description 3
- 230000006978 adaptation Effects 0.000 description 3
- 230000008901 benefit Effects 0.000 description 3
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 3
- 230000008569 process Effects 0.000 description 3
- 230000008014 freezing Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000007710 freezing Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000005484 gravity Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000007789 sealing Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000003213 activating effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000004873 anchoring Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000015556 catabolic process Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000004140 cleaning Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000000295 complement effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000011109 contamination Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000006073 displacement reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000002708 enhancing effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000003673 groundwater Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000012544 monitoring process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000008439 repair process Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000002352 surface water Substances 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16K—VALVES; TAPS; COCKS; ACTUATING-FLOATS; DEVICES FOR VENTING OR AERATING
- F16K27/00—Construction of housing; Use of materials therefor
- F16K27/006—Construction of housing; Use of materials therefor of hydrants
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A62—LIFE-SAVING; FIRE-FIGHTING
- A62C—FIRE-FIGHTING
- A62C35/00—Permanently-installed equipment
- A62C35/20—Hydrants, e.g. wall-hoses, wall units, plug-in cabinets
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E03—WATER SUPPLY; SEWERAGE
- E03B—INSTALLATIONS OR METHODS FOR OBTAINING, COLLECTING, OR DISTRIBUTING WATER
- E03B9/00—Methods or installations for drawing-off water
- E03B9/02—Hydrants; Arrangements of valves therein; Keys for hydrants
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E03—WATER SUPPLY; SEWERAGE
- E03B—INSTALLATIONS OR METHODS FOR OBTAINING, COLLECTING, OR DISTRIBUTING WATER
- E03B9/00—Methods or installations for drawing-off water
- E03B9/02—Hydrants; Arrangements of valves therein; Keys for hydrants
- E03B9/08—Underground hydrants
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16K—VALVES; TAPS; COCKS; ACTUATING-FLOATS; DEVICES FOR VENTING OR AERATING
- F16K1/00—Lift valves or globe valves, i.e. cut-off apparatus with closure members having at least a component of their opening and closing motion perpendicular to the closing faces
- F16K1/24—Lift valves or globe valves, i.e. cut-off apparatus with closure members having at least a component of their opening and closing motion perpendicular to the closing faces with valve members that, on opening of the valve, are initially lifted from the seat and next are turned around an axis parallel to the seat
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16K—VALVES; TAPS; COCKS; ACTUATING-FLOATS; DEVICES FOR VENTING OR AERATING
- F16K31/00—Actuating devices; Operating means; Releasing devices
- F16K31/44—Mechanical actuating means
- F16K31/52—Mechanical actuating means with crank, eccentric, or cam
- F16K31/521—Mechanical actuating means with crank, eccentric, or cam comprising a pivoted disc or flap
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Public Health (AREA)
- Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Hydrology & Water Resources (AREA)
- Water Supply & Treatment (AREA)
- Business, Economics & Management (AREA)
- Emergency Management (AREA)
- Fire-Extinguishing By Fire Departments, And Fire-Extinguishing Equipment And Control Thereof (AREA)
- Lift Valve (AREA)
Abstract
In a novel hydrant, the operation of the hydrant valve (5,6) is based on lifting the valve plug (5) vertically from the seat (6) then tilting the plug (5) away from the inlet to provide an uninterrupted bore (9). A stem (shaft) (4a) is threaded with a mating stem nut (4b) shaped to include provision for a slider (8) and a receiver (11) for a plug axle. The plug axle has an axis A-A' which is offset so as not to bisect with the axis of the stem (4a). The stem nut (4b) is of sufficient length so as to minimize the bending loads on the thread (not shown) when the plug (5) is loaded during closure of the valve (5,6). During operation of the hydrant (1) the stem (4a) is rotated by means of an external handle (4) at its upper end and consequently the stem nut (4b) and plug (5) rise vertically for a nominated distance. Thereafter, further rise of the nut (4b) and plug (5) cause the slider mechanism (8) to rotate the nut and plug (5) off the center of the bore (9) and simultaneously, as the plug (5) contacts with the walls of the hydrant (7), to rotate the plug (5) around its axle (12) so as to leave the plug (5) in a plane orthogonal to the plane in which it sat on the seat (6). During closure of the valve (5,6) the actions occur in reverse.
Description
2 PCT/GB2010/002320 HYDRANT VALVE
The present invention relates to an improved valve arrangement for use in a hydrant such as but not strictly limited to a fire hydrant.
A hydrant as referred to herein is any outlet for a given fluid from a mains supply.
Typically a hydrant is provided in the form of a branch outlet pipe extending from the mains supply pipe and terminating in a valve which can be operated to release fluid from the supply. A common example is a fire hydrant, fire hydrants typically consist of a valve which is located in the ground and connected to the main via a riser pipe.
The valves used in the prior art are generally constructed in accordance with the local industry standards. In the UK, the standard valve includes a mechanism which has a drive spindle directly above the inlet of the valve for activating the stopper. The outlet, to which is connected a standard threaded outlet sometimes referred to as "London outlet" for connecting with a fire hose is offset to the inlet by typically 100mm or more.
Consequently, when the valve stopper is opened, the fluid (water in the case of a fire hydrant) is forced to follow the path of an "S" bend to the outlet.
This prior art valve design is most suitable for fire service access to the mains water.
However, recently such hydrants have been required to be put to other uses, for example by water companies to access the main for such activities as (but not strictly limited to), cleaning, camera access, mains stopping, launching repair medium, monitoring water quality and pipe conditions and other new initiatives that reduce the need to otherwise dig holes to access mains pipes. It will be appreciated that digging for access to the mains has significant disadvantages to the public such as but not limited to disruption to traffic and pedestrian throughways causing potential safety hazards and also to the utilities service in having a considerable associated cost and lead time.
As mentioned above the current fire hydrant valve design imposes a direct obstruction on the axis of the inlet when the valve stopper is opened, which causes any inserted service to follow the S bend which is very restrictive and in many instances impossible.
Through bore valves are known to be used in various forms, for example;
eccentric plug valves, plug valves, gate and plate valves. These are known to have been adapted for and used in hydrant applications. Although solving the practical problem of access direct to the main on the axis of the inlet with no diversion, these valve types do however introduce certain disadvantages in normal use. Some recognised disadvantages include;
excessive cost, compromise of hydrant integrity, safety issues in use, susceptibility to freezing temperatures, poor operator feel during operation and increased potential for leakage and use excessive space in the hydrant chamber.
The present invention aims substantially to overcome the disadvantages of the known hydrant valve arrangements and those associated with the adaptation of through bore valves.
In accordance with the present invention there is provided a hydrant comprising; a hollow body enclosing a valve, the hollow body terminating at one end in an inlet flange configured for connection to a riser pipe, and at an opposing end in an outlet positioned axially directly above the inlet providing an unobstructed first bore from inlet to outlet when the valve is opened, a second bore connecting with the first bore receiving a shaft which carries an operating means for operating opening and closure of the valve through movement of the shaft, the valve mechanism comprising a plug configured to sit onto a seat provided around the body wall defining the first bore, the plug being freely rotatably about an axis parallel to the seat and which in turn is mounted on the shaft, such that on movement of the shaft, the separation between the mount and seat is varied and the plug is caused to be tilted and radially displaced between a position where it is fully engaged with the seat and a position where the bore is unobstructed.
The present invention relates to an improved valve arrangement for use in a hydrant such as but not strictly limited to a fire hydrant.
A hydrant as referred to herein is any outlet for a given fluid from a mains supply.
Typically a hydrant is provided in the form of a branch outlet pipe extending from the mains supply pipe and terminating in a valve which can be operated to release fluid from the supply. A common example is a fire hydrant, fire hydrants typically consist of a valve which is located in the ground and connected to the main via a riser pipe.
The valves used in the prior art are generally constructed in accordance with the local industry standards. In the UK, the standard valve includes a mechanism which has a drive spindle directly above the inlet of the valve for activating the stopper. The outlet, to which is connected a standard threaded outlet sometimes referred to as "London outlet" for connecting with a fire hose is offset to the inlet by typically 100mm or more.
Consequently, when the valve stopper is opened, the fluid (water in the case of a fire hydrant) is forced to follow the path of an "S" bend to the outlet.
This prior art valve design is most suitable for fire service access to the mains water.
However, recently such hydrants have been required to be put to other uses, for example by water companies to access the main for such activities as (but not strictly limited to), cleaning, camera access, mains stopping, launching repair medium, monitoring water quality and pipe conditions and other new initiatives that reduce the need to otherwise dig holes to access mains pipes. It will be appreciated that digging for access to the mains has significant disadvantages to the public such as but not limited to disruption to traffic and pedestrian throughways causing potential safety hazards and also to the utilities service in having a considerable associated cost and lead time.
As mentioned above the current fire hydrant valve design imposes a direct obstruction on the axis of the inlet when the valve stopper is opened, which causes any inserted service to follow the S bend which is very restrictive and in many instances impossible.
Through bore valves are known to be used in various forms, for example;
eccentric plug valves, plug valves, gate and plate valves. These are known to have been adapted for and used in hydrant applications. Although solving the practical problem of access direct to the main on the axis of the inlet with no diversion, these valve types do however introduce certain disadvantages in normal use. Some recognised disadvantages include;
excessive cost, compromise of hydrant integrity, safety issues in use, susceptibility to freezing temperatures, poor operator feel during operation and increased potential for leakage and use excessive space in the hydrant chamber.
The present invention aims substantially to overcome the disadvantages of the known hydrant valve arrangements and those associated with the adaptation of through bore valves.
In accordance with the present invention there is provided a hydrant comprising; a hollow body enclosing a valve, the hollow body terminating at one end in an inlet flange configured for connection to a riser pipe, and at an opposing end in an outlet positioned axially directly above the inlet providing an unobstructed first bore from inlet to outlet when the valve is opened, a second bore connecting with the first bore receiving a shaft which carries an operating means for operating opening and closure of the valve through movement of the shaft, the valve mechanism comprising a plug configured to sit onto a seat provided around the body wall defining the first bore, the plug being freely rotatably about an axis parallel to the seat and which in turn is mounted on the shaft, such that on movement of the shaft, the separation between the mount and seat is varied and the plug is caused to be tilted and radially displaced between a position where it is fully engaged with the seat and a position where the bore is unobstructed.
3 Conveniently, the plug is rotatably mounted on an axle which is carried by a mount on the shaft. In one simple embodiment, the shaft is provided with a thread on which is threaded a stem nut, the stem nut carrying the axle on which the plug is freely rotatably mounted. In other options, the mount may be fixed to the shaft and the shaft moved axially, for example by means of complementary threads on the shaft and a bore in the body of the hydrant. In the latter case, rotational movement of the shaft causes axial movement of the shaft and consequent axial displacement of the mount.
In embodiments incorporating a stem nut on a threaded shaft, the operating means rotates the shaft. As the shaft rotates, the stem enclosing the stem nut bears against internal walls of the hydrant and is caused to travel on the thread varying the separation between the plug and seat. Changing the direction of rotation of the shaft changes the direction of travel of the stem nut.
Optionally, the axle is positioned so that its axis does not bisect with the axis of the shaft. A further option is the slider between the axle or plug and the wall.
This provides the tilting of the plug as it rises and radially displaced during the opening process.
Optionally, the stem nut further includes a slider received in a guide on the wall defining the second bore which assists in the movement of the stem nut along the shaft.
This slider both resists unwanted radial movement of the nut during the first phase of the opening process and then urges appropriate radial movement of the nut during the final stage of the process.
Desirably, the seat is located in a plane which is not perpendicular to but is angled to the axis of the first bore.
Desirably, the second bore is positioned in parallel alignment with the first bore.
Optionally, the seat and plug may share an arched profile.
In embodiments incorporating a stem nut on a threaded shaft, the operating means rotates the shaft. As the shaft rotates, the stem enclosing the stem nut bears against internal walls of the hydrant and is caused to travel on the thread varying the separation between the plug and seat. Changing the direction of rotation of the shaft changes the direction of travel of the stem nut.
Optionally, the axle is positioned so that its axis does not bisect with the axis of the shaft. A further option is the slider between the axle or plug and the wall.
This provides the tilting of the plug as it rises and radially displaced during the opening process.
Optionally, the stem nut further includes a slider received in a guide on the wall defining the second bore which assists in the movement of the stem nut along the shaft.
This slider both resists unwanted radial movement of the nut during the first phase of the opening process and then urges appropriate radial movement of the nut during the final stage of the process.
Desirably, the seat is located in a plane which is not perpendicular to but is angled to the axis of the first bore.
Desirably, the second bore is positioned in parallel alignment with the first bore.
Optionally, the seat and plug may share an arched profile.
4 The hydrant is generally made fluid tight by the inclusion of seals around the shaft and at the valve plug /seat interface. For example, a gasket is provided at the interface. The contact surface profile of the gasket seat is preferably of a rimmed disc which is housed within a rimmed disc of the plug face.
Desirably, a sump is provided in the body into which water draining off the inclined seat can flow harmlessly.
The hydrant may further include a shaped annular recess undercut beneath the seat at the inlet flange bore to act as a receptacle for an additional, temporary and separate stopper which can be engaged for the safe maintenance of the valve should there be need for replacement of internal mechanism whilst the mains is in operation.
Some embodiments of the invention will now be better described with reference to the accompanying drawings in which;
Figure 1 illustrates external views of a first embodiment of the hydrant of the invention;
Figures 2a) and 2b) illustrate in a plan view cross section a first embodiment of the invention with the valve in both an open and closed configuration;
Figure 3 illustrates in a plan view cross section a second embodiment of the invention with the valve in an open configuration;
Figure 4 illustrates in a plan view cross section a third embodiment of the invention with the valve in an open configuration..
Figures 5a) and 5b) illustrates in a first section a fourth embodiment of the invention with the valve in both an open and closed configuration;
Figures 6a) and 6b) illustrates in a second section the fourth embodiment of the invention with the valve in both an open and closed configuration. This section show further detail of the stem shaft and nut configuration.
Figures 7a) and 7b) illustrates in top view ofthe fourth embodiment of the invention with the valve in both an open and closed configuration Figure 1 illustrates an external view of the proposed hydrants. As shown, there is a hydrant generally referred to as (1), having a flanged inlet end (2) and an outlet (3) in axial alignment with the inlet (2). Distanced from an axis defined by the inlet (2) and outlet (3) is an operating mechanism of which can be seen an operating means (4) for opening the valve (not shown) inside the body (1).
Figure 2 illustrates a first embodiment of the invention in an open and closed configuration. This hydrant is shown in cross section from a top view. The operation of the valve (5,6) is based on lifting the valve plug (5) vertically from the seat (6) radially displacing the plug from the seat axis then tilting the plug (5) away from the inlet to provide an uninterrupted bore (9).
The illustrated embodiment has a stem (shaft) (4a) threaded with a mating stem nut (4b) shaped to include provision for a slider (8) and a receiver (11) for a plug axle. The plug axle has an axis A-A' which is offset so as not to bisect with the axis of the stem (4a). The stem nut (4b) is of sufficient length so as to minimize the bending loads on the thread (not shown) when the plug (5) is loaded during closure of the valve (5,6).
In variations of this embodiment, the axle may be predominantly in line with the axis of the stem but at its axially outer end the axle may be directed to be offset to the stem axis. The plug may then be hingedly attached to this misaligned extension. The advantage is that this configuration reduces the amount of bending stresses in the axle.
In a further alternative, the plug and axle could be of one unit and the rotation of the axle is within the nut.
During operation of the hydrant (1) the stem (4a) is rotated by means of an external handle (4) at its upper end and consequently the stem nut (4b) and plug (5) rise vertically for a nominated distance. Thereafter, further rise of the nut (4b) and plug (5) cause the slider mechanism (8) to rotate the nut and plug (5) off the center of the bore (9) and simultaneously, as the plug (5) contacts with the walls of the hydrant (7), to rotate the plug (5) around its axle (12) so as to leave the plug (5) in a plane orthogonal to the plane in which it sat on the seat (6).
During closure of the valve (5,6) the actions occur in reverse. The return of the plug (5) back to first orthogonal plane is promoted by contact with the walls (7) or in an option, preferential weighting (not shown) of the plug (5) so that its center of gravity is below the axis A-A' of axle (12).
The embodiment of Figure 3 includes an adaptation to the previously described embodiment. In this embodiment, the seat (6) is formed in a convex arch and the plug
Desirably, a sump is provided in the body into which water draining off the inclined seat can flow harmlessly.
The hydrant may further include a shaped annular recess undercut beneath the seat at the inlet flange bore to act as a receptacle for an additional, temporary and separate stopper which can be engaged for the safe maintenance of the valve should there be need for replacement of internal mechanism whilst the mains is in operation.
Some embodiments of the invention will now be better described with reference to the accompanying drawings in which;
Figure 1 illustrates external views of a first embodiment of the hydrant of the invention;
Figures 2a) and 2b) illustrate in a plan view cross section a first embodiment of the invention with the valve in both an open and closed configuration;
Figure 3 illustrates in a plan view cross section a second embodiment of the invention with the valve in an open configuration;
Figure 4 illustrates in a plan view cross section a third embodiment of the invention with the valve in an open configuration..
Figures 5a) and 5b) illustrates in a first section a fourth embodiment of the invention with the valve in both an open and closed configuration;
Figures 6a) and 6b) illustrates in a second section the fourth embodiment of the invention with the valve in both an open and closed configuration. This section show further detail of the stem shaft and nut configuration.
Figures 7a) and 7b) illustrates in top view ofthe fourth embodiment of the invention with the valve in both an open and closed configuration Figure 1 illustrates an external view of the proposed hydrants. As shown, there is a hydrant generally referred to as (1), having a flanged inlet end (2) and an outlet (3) in axial alignment with the inlet (2). Distanced from an axis defined by the inlet (2) and outlet (3) is an operating mechanism of which can be seen an operating means (4) for opening the valve (not shown) inside the body (1).
Figure 2 illustrates a first embodiment of the invention in an open and closed configuration. This hydrant is shown in cross section from a top view. The operation of the valve (5,6) is based on lifting the valve plug (5) vertically from the seat (6) radially displacing the plug from the seat axis then tilting the plug (5) away from the inlet to provide an uninterrupted bore (9).
The illustrated embodiment has a stem (shaft) (4a) threaded with a mating stem nut (4b) shaped to include provision for a slider (8) and a receiver (11) for a plug axle. The plug axle has an axis A-A' which is offset so as not to bisect with the axis of the stem (4a). The stem nut (4b) is of sufficient length so as to minimize the bending loads on the thread (not shown) when the plug (5) is loaded during closure of the valve (5,6).
In variations of this embodiment, the axle may be predominantly in line with the axis of the stem but at its axially outer end the axle may be directed to be offset to the stem axis. The plug may then be hingedly attached to this misaligned extension. The advantage is that this configuration reduces the amount of bending stresses in the axle.
In a further alternative, the plug and axle could be of one unit and the rotation of the axle is within the nut.
During operation of the hydrant (1) the stem (4a) is rotated by means of an external handle (4) at its upper end and consequently the stem nut (4b) and plug (5) rise vertically for a nominated distance. Thereafter, further rise of the nut (4b) and plug (5) cause the slider mechanism (8) to rotate the nut and plug (5) off the center of the bore (9) and simultaneously, as the plug (5) contacts with the walls of the hydrant (7), to rotate the plug (5) around its axle (12) so as to leave the plug (5) in a plane orthogonal to the plane in which it sat on the seat (6).
During closure of the valve (5,6) the actions occur in reverse. The return of the plug (5) back to first orthogonal plane is promoted by contact with the walls (7) or in an option, preferential weighting (not shown) of the plug (5) so that its center of gravity is below the axis A-A' of axle (12).
The embodiment of Figure 3 includes an adaptation to the previously described embodiment. In this embodiment, the seat (6) is formed in a convex arch and the plug
(5) is provided with a mating concave surface. This embodiment is advantageous in reducing the space occupied by the plug (5) when in its opened position and so reduces the cost of the hydrant and provides for easier access to the inlet valve fasteners on the flange (2).
The embodiment shown in Figure 4 shows an adaptation which might be applied to either of the previously described embodiments. A hydrant is substantially of the same structure as shown in Figures 1 and 2, however the plug (5) and seat (6) are tilted to an angle to the horizontal and in the direction of the side wall. This embodiment is advantageous in that the amount that the plug (5) and stem nut (4b) need to rotate to clear the bore (9) is reduced compared to the previous embodiment and any ground water is drained to a sump more efficiently.
Desirably in all embodiments, the hydrant is configured to provide vertical space above and below the seat (6) to accommodate the tilted plug and also to minimize the travel of the stem nut (4b) on the stem (4a), which is an advantage if the stem (4a) has to be longer to overcome bending stresses.
The embodiment in Figures 5 and 6 is again broadly similar in construction to that of Figures 1 and 2. The main difference in this embodiment is the arrangement of the valve plug (5) and the stem (4a). Rather than being pivoted on an axle extending from the stem as in the embodiment of Figure 1, the valve plug in this embodiment is pivotally held on a pin passing through a mount (4c) extending orthogonally from the axis of the stem at the end distal from the stem nut (4b). In this embodiment the valve seat (6) and valve plug (5) when seated are in a plan substantially orthogonal to the hydrant.
The following advantages have been identified for the described embodiments of the invention:
= The use of a plug engaging the docking positions creates a similar feel to the standard hydrant to the operator.
= The inclined and arched seat arrangements ensure that the surface water is drained away to prevent contamination from stagnant water and freezing.
= A drain plug of larger proportions assists in the fast and efficient drainage and expulsion of fine debris.
= The gasket having a rimmed disc gasket seated in a rimmed disc plug for support will create pressure responsive sealing, enhancing its sealing capability without the need for higher input torques on the stem.
= The valve is maintained as a dry valve evacuating any water from the hydrant body after use.
= The introduction of an undercut recess at the inlet flange bore for the reception of a temporary self-anchoring stopper provides for the safe maintenance of the valve.
= Using an arched seat and plug requires less space in the body, saving cost and with less obstruction to the inlet flange fasteners.
= Arranging the valve body base to be below the seat has the result that the plug requires little vertical movement to allow for the mechanism to tilt, reducing the height of the valve body and allows for a longer nut to be used to counter bending forces.
= The inclined seat and plug when in the closed position requires less lateral rotation of the plug and nut to clear the inlet bore.
= Opening of these embodiments can be staged into 1 or 2 or more stages to allow for use by the fire service and maintaining the plug over the inlet and a second or series of subsequent stages which are only operable by authorized personal to avoid unwanted and illegal through bore access into the main. The valve can be provided with a lockable staged operation.
= If the plug is weighted to provide its center of gravity below the axis of the axle, this assists in self righting of the plug when being closed.
= The embodiments include significantly less moving parts than prior art arrangements and are less prone to wear or breakdown.
= The valves of the invention can be very compact allowing the valve to have good clearance over the inlet flange facilitating easier assembly and removal.
= Tilting of the plug and offsetting of the plug axle axis to the stem axis reduces the radial movement required of the plug and also the consequential space taken up in the hydrant body allowing for a more compact hydrant.
The embodiment shown in Figure 4 shows an adaptation which might be applied to either of the previously described embodiments. A hydrant is substantially of the same structure as shown in Figures 1 and 2, however the plug (5) and seat (6) are tilted to an angle to the horizontal and in the direction of the side wall. This embodiment is advantageous in that the amount that the plug (5) and stem nut (4b) need to rotate to clear the bore (9) is reduced compared to the previous embodiment and any ground water is drained to a sump more efficiently.
Desirably in all embodiments, the hydrant is configured to provide vertical space above and below the seat (6) to accommodate the tilted plug and also to minimize the travel of the stem nut (4b) on the stem (4a), which is an advantage if the stem (4a) has to be longer to overcome bending stresses.
The embodiment in Figures 5 and 6 is again broadly similar in construction to that of Figures 1 and 2. The main difference in this embodiment is the arrangement of the valve plug (5) and the stem (4a). Rather than being pivoted on an axle extending from the stem as in the embodiment of Figure 1, the valve plug in this embodiment is pivotally held on a pin passing through a mount (4c) extending orthogonally from the axis of the stem at the end distal from the stem nut (4b). In this embodiment the valve seat (6) and valve plug (5) when seated are in a plan substantially orthogonal to the hydrant.
The following advantages have been identified for the described embodiments of the invention:
= The use of a plug engaging the docking positions creates a similar feel to the standard hydrant to the operator.
= The inclined and arched seat arrangements ensure that the surface water is drained away to prevent contamination from stagnant water and freezing.
= A drain plug of larger proportions assists in the fast and efficient drainage and expulsion of fine debris.
= The gasket having a rimmed disc gasket seated in a rimmed disc plug for support will create pressure responsive sealing, enhancing its sealing capability without the need for higher input torques on the stem.
= The valve is maintained as a dry valve evacuating any water from the hydrant body after use.
= The introduction of an undercut recess at the inlet flange bore for the reception of a temporary self-anchoring stopper provides for the safe maintenance of the valve.
= Using an arched seat and plug requires less space in the body, saving cost and with less obstruction to the inlet flange fasteners.
= Arranging the valve body base to be below the seat has the result that the plug requires little vertical movement to allow for the mechanism to tilt, reducing the height of the valve body and allows for a longer nut to be used to counter bending forces.
= The inclined seat and plug when in the closed position requires less lateral rotation of the plug and nut to clear the inlet bore.
= Opening of these embodiments can be staged into 1 or 2 or more stages to allow for use by the fire service and maintaining the plug over the inlet and a second or series of subsequent stages which are only operable by authorized personal to avoid unwanted and illegal through bore access into the main. The valve can be provided with a lockable staged operation.
= If the plug is weighted to provide its center of gravity below the axis of the axle, this assists in self righting of the plug when being closed.
= The embodiments include significantly less moving parts than prior art arrangements and are less prone to wear or breakdown.
= The valves of the invention can be very compact allowing the valve to have good clearance over the inlet flange facilitating easier assembly and removal.
= Tilting of the plug and offsetting of the plug axle axis to the stem axis reduces the radial movement required of the plug and also the consequential space taken up in the hydrant body allowing for a more compact hydrant.
Claims (17)
1. A hydrant comprising; a hollow body enclosing a valve, the hollow body terminating at one end in an inlet flange configured for connection to a riser pipe, and at an opposing end in an outlet positioned axially directly above the inlet providing an unobstructed first bore from inlet to outlet when the valve is opened, a second bore connecting with the first bore receiving a shaft which carries an operating means for operating opening and closure of the valve through movement of the shaft, the valve mechanism comprising a plug configured to sit onto a seat provided around the body wall defining the first bore, the plug being freely rotatably about an axis substantially parallel to the seat and which in turn is mounted on the shaft, such that on movement of the shaft, the separation between the mount and seat is varied and the plug is caused to be tilted and radially displaced between a position where it is fully engaged with the seat and a position where the bore is unobstructed.
2. A hydrant as claimed in claim 1 wherein the plug is rotatably mounted on an axle which is carried by a mount on the shaft.
3. A hydrant as claimed in claim 1 wherein the plug is pivotally mounted on a pin passing through a mount extending orthogonally from the axis of the stem at the end distal from the stem nut.
4. A hydrant as claimed in claim 2 or 3 wherein the shaft is provided with a thread on which is threaded a stem nut serving as the mount, the stem nut carrying the axle on which the plug is freely rotatably mounted.
5. A hydrant as claimed in claim 1 or claim 2 wherein the mount is fixed to the shaft axially and the shaft is configured to be moved axially.
6. A hydrant as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the shaft carries a thread which engages with a complimenting thread either on the mount or in an orifice provided in the hydrant wall and the operating means rotates the shaft.
7. A hydrant as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the axle is positioned so that its axis does not bisect with the axis of the shaft.
8. A hydrant as claimed in claim 4 wherein the stem nut further includes a slider received in a guide on the wall defining the second bore which assists in the movement of the stem nut along the shaft.
9. A hydrant as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the seat is located in a plane which is not perpendicular to but is angled to the axis of the first bore.
10. A hydrant as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the second bore is positioned in parallel alignment with the first bore.
11. A hydrant as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the seat and plug share an arched profile.
12. A hydrant as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the hydrant body in the walls encircling the inlet seat area is provided with receiving docking positions configured to receive complimentary shaped portions provided on the upper side of the plug whereby as the plug slides into position over the seat it locates at various locations about its periphery into the docking positions.
13. A hydrant as claimed in any preceding claim wherein the hydrant is made fluid tight by the inclusion of seals around the shaft and at the valve plug /seat interface.
11
15. A hydrant as claimed in claim 13 wherein the gasket is provided at the interface and the contact surface profile of the gasket seat is of a rimmed disc which is housed within a rimmed disc of the plug face.
16. A hydrant as claimed in any of claims 10 to 13 further comprising a sump provided in the body into which water draining off the inclined seat can flow harmlessly.
17. The hydrant as claimed in any preceding claim further comprising a shaped annular recess undercut beneath the seat at the inlet flange bore to act as a receptacle for an additional, temporary and separate stopper which can be engaged for the safe maintenance of the valve should there be need for replacement of internal mechanism whilst the mains is in operation.
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| GB0922587A GB2479704A (en) | 2009-12-23 | 2009-12-23 | Hydrant valve |
| GB0922587.1 | 2009-12-23 | ||
| PCT/GB2010/002320 WO2011077092A1 (en) | 2009-12-23 | 2010-12-22 | Hydrant valve |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2785559A1 true CA2785559A1 (en) | 2011-06-30 |
Family
ID=41716930
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2785559A Abandoned CA2785559A1 (en) | 2009-12-23 | 2010-12-22 | Hydrant valve |
Country Status (4)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| EP (1) | EP2516908A1 (en) |
| CA (1) | CA2785559A1 (en) |
| GB (1) | GB2479704A (en) |
| WO (1) | WO2011077092A1 (en) |
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US11957311B2 (en) | 2013-05-17 | 2024-04-16 | Endochoice, Inc. | Endoscope control unit with braking system |
Families Citing this family (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EP2690226B1 (en) * | 2012-07-27 | 2014-05-21 | IMP ARMATURE d.o.o. | Hydrant valve |
Family Cites Families (7)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GB603621A (en) * | 1945-11-16 | 1948-06-18 | Edward Cyril Bowden Smith | Improvements in or relating to valves or gates |
| US4127142A (en) * | 1977-05-11 | 1978-11-28 | James Allen Snider | Slow close hydrant check valve |
| US4596263A (en) * | 1983-12-05 | 1986-06-24 | Snider James A | Apparatus for controlling hydraulic flow of liquid under pressure in a pipeline |
| US5499658A (en) * | 1993-08-16 | 1996-03-19 | Bridges; Willard P. | Angled seat valve and fitting apparatus |
| JP2729916B2 (en) * | 1994-04-28 | 1998-03-18 | 大明金属工業株式会社 | Flat plug |
| GB2359870B (en) * | 2000-02-16 | 2002-02-06 | John Raymond Bartram | Maintainable fire hydrant |
| US6494434B1 (en) * | 2001-07-12 | 2002-12-17 | Vat Holding Ag | Butterfly valve |
-
2009
- 2009-12-23 GB GB0922587A patent/GB2479704A/en not_active Withdrawn
-
2010
- 2010-12-22 EP EP10805476A patent/EP2516908A1/en not_active Withdrawn
- 2010-12-22 WO PCT/GB2010/002320 patent/WO2011077092A1/en active Application Filing
- 2010-12-22 CA CA2785559A patent/CA2785559A1/en not_active Abandoned
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US11957311B2 (en) | 2013-05-17 | 2024-04-16 | Endochoice, Inc. | Endoscope control unit with braking system |
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| GB2479704A (en) | 2011-10-26 |
| WO2011077092A1 (en) | 2011-06-30 |
| GB0922587D0 (en) | 2010-02-10 |
| EP2516908A1 (en) | 2012-10-31 |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| FZDE | Discontinued |
Effective date: 20131224 |