CN210128101U - Regulator - Google Patents
Regulator Download PDFInfo
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- CN210128101U CN210128101U CN201920021278.5U CN201920021278U CN210128101U CN 210128101 U CN210128101 U CN 210128101U CN 201920021278 U CN201920021278 U CN 201920021278U CN 210128101 U CN210128101 U CN 210128101U
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- valve stem
- regulator
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Abstract
The utility model provides a regulator. A fluid regulator includes an actuator assembly disposed in a valve body. The sleeve includes a cylindrical wall, a first plate, and a second plate. Each of the first and second plates is disposed in the cavity of the sleeve. The valve stem extends through the sleeve and is axially aligned with the longitudinal axis of the body, and includes a passageway extending partially through the valve stem. The actuator assembly includes a first piston and a second piston. The first, second, third and fourth chambers are separately disposed between the sleeve, the first or second plate, or the first or second piston. The first and third chambers are in fluid communication, and the second and fourth chambers are in fluid communication via a passageway of the valve stem. The actuator assembly actuates the control element in response to fluid pressure receivable in the first chamber, the second chamber, the third chamber, and/or the fourth chamber.
Description
Technical Field
The present disclosure relates to a regulator, and more particularly, to an axial regulator.
Background
Industrial process plants use pressure regulators in a wide variety of applications such as, for example, controlling fluid flow (e.g., gas, liquid) in process operations. The valve body of a conventional regulator valve is divided into several portions that must be tightly secured together to maintain the internal pressure of the regulator. The valve body requires multiple mounting flanges, flange bolts, and must be capable of being disassembled to access the internal components of the regulator for repair or replacement.
SUMMERY OF THE UTILITY MODEL
According to a first exemplary aspect, a regulator may include: a valve body defining an inlet, an outlet, and a flow path connecting the inlet and the outlet; a valve seat; and a control element movable relative to the valve body between a closed position in which the control element engages the valve seat and an open position in which the control element is spaced from the valve seat. The actuator assembly may be operably coupled to the control element. The actuator assembly may include a sleeve including a first plate and a second plate, and a valve stem operably coupled to the control element and extending through the sleeve. The valve stem may include an internal passageway. The first piston may be coupled to the valve stem and may be disposed within the sleeve and between the first plate and the second plate. A second piston may be coupled to the valve stem and disposed within the sleeve and on an opposite side of the second plate from the first piston. The first piston, the second piston, the first plate, and the second plate may collectively define: a first chamber disposed between a first plate and a first piston; a second chamber disposed between the first piston and the second plate; a third chamber disposed between the second plate and the second piston; and a fourth chamber disposed opposite the third chamber relative to the second piston. The first and third chambers may be in fluid communication, and the second and fourth chambers may be in fluid communication via a passageway of the valve stem. The flow path may be circumferentially positioned relative to the actuator assembly.
According to a second exemplary aspect, a fluid regulator may include a valve body having an inlet, an outlet, and a flow path connecting the inlet and the outlet. An actuator assembly may be inserted into the valve body through one of the inlet or the outlet. The actuator assembly may include a sleeve and two or more pistons defining a plurality of chambers within the sleeve and configured to be coupled to a valve stem. Two or more of the plurality of chambers may be fluidly connected via a passage within the valve stem. The flow path connecting the inlet and the outlet may be circumferentially positioned relative to the actuator assembly.
According to a third exemplary aspect, a method of assembling a regulator may include providing a single cast valve body. The valve body may define an inlet, an outlet, and a flow path connecting the inlet and the outlet. The valve body may include a bore positioned internally relative to the flow path and extending along a longitudinal axis of the valve body. The method may include assembling an actuator assembly. The actuator assembly may include a sleeve, a valve stem, a first piston, and a second piston. Additionally, the method may include operably coupling a control element to the valve stem and aligning the actuator assembly with a longitudinal axis of the valve body. The method may include inserting the actuator assembly into a valve body and maintaining the actuator assembly within the valve body by operatively coupling a fitting to the valve body.
According to a fourth exemplary aspect, according to the first exemplary aspect, a fluid control device may include a valve body defining an inlet, an outlet, and a flow path connecting the inlet and the outlet. A control element may be movable along a longitudinal axis between the inlet and the outlet between a closed position in which the control element engages a valve seat and an open position in which the control element is spaced from the valve seat. A valve stem (stem) may be operably coupled to the control element and axially aligned with the longitudinal axis. An indicator assembly may be at least partially disposed in the bore of the valve body along an indicator axis that is non-parallel to the longitudinal axis. Movement of the valve stem along the longitudinal axis may cause movement of a rod (rod) of the indicator assembly along or about the indicator axis to indicate the position of the control element.
According to a fifth exemplary aspect, according to the second exemplary aspect, a fluid control device may include a valve body defining an inlet, an outlet, and a flow path connecting the inlet and the outlet. A control element may be movable along a longitudinal axis of the valve body between a closed position in which the control element engages a valve seat and an open position in which the control element is spaced from the valve seat. A valve stem may be operably coupled to the control element and axially aligned with the longitudinal axis. The indicator assembly may be at least partially disposed in the bore of the valve body along an indicator axis that is non-parallel to the longitudinal axis. The indicator assembly may include a roller in contact with a tapered cap connected to the valve stem. A lever may be coupled to the roller, and movement of the roller along the cap may cause movement of the lever along the indicator axis to indicate a position of the control element relative to the valve seat.
According to a sixth exemplary aspect, according to a third exemplary aspect, an indicator assembly for use with a fluid control apparatus may include a lever positioned at least partially within a body of the fluid control apparatus along an indicator axis. At least one feature may be operably coupled to the stem and operably coupled to a valve stem of the fluid control device. The indicator assembly may be configured to translate movement of the valve stem along a longitudinal axis that is non-parallel to the indicator axis into movement along or about the indicator axis to indicate a position of a control element of the fluid control device.
Further according to any one or more of the preceding first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth aspects, a fluid regulator and/or a method of assembling a fluid regulator may comprise any one or more of the following preferred forms.
In a preferred form, the passageway of the valve stem may include a radial channel and a longitudinal channel.
In a preferred form, the radial passage may be in fluid communication with the second chamber and the longitudinal passage may be in fluid communication with the fourth chamber.
In a preferred form, the aperture of the first plate may be sized to receive the first portion of the valve stem and the aperture of the second plate may be sized to receive the second portion of the valve stem.
In a preferred form, the first portion of the valve stem may have an outer diameter different from an outer diameter of the second portion of the valve stem.
In a preferred form, a first passage may extend through the valve body and may be in fluid communication with the first and third chambers.
In a preferred form, a second passage may extend through the valve body and may be in fluid communication with the second and fourth chambers.
In a preferred form, the second passageway may extend partially through the valve stem.
In a preferred form, the second passageway may be in fluid communication with the first chamber and in fluid communication with the third chamber.
In a preferred form, a pathway may fluidly extend at least partially between the sleeve and the valve body and may connect the first and third chambers.
In a preferred form, the path may comprise a plurality of channels formed in the sleeve.
In a preferred form, the sleeve may be retained within the valve body by an inlet fitting.
In a preferred form, the control element may comprise a plurality of spokes extending between a central hub and an outer ring.
In a preferred form, the central hub may define a hub aperture sized to receive the valve stem.
In a preferred form, the outer ring may be arranged to engage the valve seat in the closed position.
In a preferred form, a drain hole may be formed in the valve body and may fluidly connect the flow path to an exterior of the valve body.
In a preferred form, the sleeve may comprise a first sleeve portion comprising a first plate and a second sleeve portion comprising a second plate.
In a preferred form, fluid pressure in the second and fourth chambers may be used to move the control element towards the closed position, and fluid pressure in the first and third chambers may be used to move the control element towards the open position.
In a preferred form, the sleeve may include a cylindrical wall, a first plate, and a second plate spaced from the first plate.
In a preferred form, the cylindrical wall may define a cavity, and each of the first and second plates may be disposed in the cavity.
In a preferred form, the plurality of chambers may comprise: a first chamber disposed between the first plate of the sleeve and the first piston; a second chamber disposed between the first piston and the second plate; a third chamber disposed between the second plate and the second piston; and a fourth chamber disposed opposite the third chamber relative to the second piston.
In a preferred form, the first and third chambers may be in fluid communication, and the second and fourth chambers may be in fluid communication via a passageway of the valve stem.
In a preferred form, the passageway of the valve stem may include a radial channel and a longitudinal channel.
In a preferred form, the radial passage may be in fluid communication with the second chamber and the longitudinal passage may be in fluid communication with the fourth chamber.
In a preferred form, the passageway may be formed in a cylindrical wall of the sleeve.
In a preferred form, the actuator assembly may include a control element and may be configured to actuate the control element between an open position and a closed position in response to fluid pressure receivable in at least one of the first, second, third and fourth chambers.
In a preferred form, inserting the actuator assembly may include inserting the actuator assembly through the inlet.
In a preferred form, the fitting may be an inlet fitting.
In a preferred form, the method may include coupling a spacer to the valve body such that the fitting and the actuator assembly may be removed when the regulator is installed in a pipeline.
In a preferred form, the method may include securing the first piston to the valve stem such that a radial passage of a first passageway formed in the valve stem is adjacent a downstream surface of the first piston.
In a preferred form, the method may include securing the first piston to the valve stem such that the radial passage of the second passageway formed in the valve stem is adjacent the upstream surface of the first piston.
In a preferred form, the method may include securing the first piston to the valve stem such that a radial passage of a second passageway formed in the valve stem is adjacent an upstream surface of a second piston.
In a preferred form, assembling the actuator assembly may include slidably coupling a first portion of the valve stem to a first plate of the sleeve and slidably coupling a second portion of the valve stem to a second plate of the sleeve.
In a preferred form, the outer diameter of the first portion may be different from the outer diameter of the second portion.
In a preferred form, the indicator axis may be perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.
In a preferred form, the indicator assembly may include an indicator coupled to the stem and extendable outside the valve body.
In a preferred form, the indicator assembly may include a plug coupled to the valve body.
In a preferred form, the indicator may be slidably coupled to the stopper.
In a preferred form, the indicator may extend a first distance outside the valve body when the control element is in the open position and the indicator may extend a second distance outside the valve body when the control element is in the closed position.
In a preferred form, the first distance may be greater than the second distance.
In a preferred form, the indicator assembly may include a spring disposed between the stopper and a spring seat carried by the lever.
In a preferred form, the spring may bias the lever towards the valve stem.
In a preferred form, a cap may be provided at one end of the valve stem and may include an inclined surface.
In a preferred form, the cap may have a wide first end and a narrow second end.
In a preferred form, the first end of the cap may be in contact with the lever when the control element is in the open position, and the second end of the cap may be in contact with the lever when the control element is in the closed position.
In a preferred form, the indicator assembly may comprise a roller contacting the cap portion.
In a preferred form, the indicator assembly may include a cord and a roller.
In a preferred form, the cable may be operatively coupled to the valve stem at a first end of the cable and operatively coupled to the lever at a second end of the cable.
In a preferred form, the cable and the roller may be configured to convert axial movement of the valve stem into axial movement of the lever.
In a preferred form, the indicator assembly may include an arm hingedly coupled to the valve stem and hingedly coupled to the lever.
In a preferred form, the arm may be configured to convert axial movement of the valve stem into axial movement of the stem.
In a preferred form, axial movement of the valve stem may cause rotational movement of the lever.
In a preferred form, the valve stem may include a corrugated surface, and the lever may include a corrugated surface rotatably coupled to the corrugated surface of the valve stem.
In a preferred form, the corrugated surface of the valve stem may engage the corrugated surface of the lever to rotate or move the lever about the indicator axis when the valve stem is moved in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the valve body.
In a preferred form, the indicator assembly may include a spring which biases the roller towards the cone cap portion.
In a preferred form, an indicator may be coupled to the lever and may extend outside the body.
In a preferred form, the at least one feature may be configured to engage a cap provided at one end of the valve stem and may have a ramped surface.
In a preferred form, the feature may be located at a wide end of the cap portion when the control element is in the first position, and the feature may be located at a narrow end of the cap portion when the control element is in the second position.
In a preferred form, the at least one feature may be a roller contacting the cap portion.
In a preferred form, the at least one feature may comprise a rope and a roller.
Any one or more of these aspects may be considered separately and/or combined with each other in any functionally appropriate manner. Additionally, any one or more of these aspects may further include and/or be implemented in any one or more of the optional exemplary arrangements and/or features described below. These and other aspects, arrangements, features and/or technical effects will become apparent upon a detailed examination of the drawings and the following description.
Drawings
FIG. 1 is a perspective cross-sectional view of a regulator assembled in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure, showing the regulator in a fully open position;
FIG. 2 is a partially exploded perspective cross-sectional view of the regulator of FIG. 1;
FIG. 3 is a front cross-sectional view of the regulator of FIG. 1, showing the regulator in a closed position;
FIG. 4A is an enlarged view of a portion of the regulator of FIG. 3 showing a seal assembly;
FIG. 4B is an enlarged view of a different portion of the regulator of FIG. 3;
FIG. 4C is an enlarged view of a different portion of the regulator of FIG. 3;
FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a first example valve stem of the regulator of FIG. 1;
FIG. 6A is a first exemplary cross-sectional view of the regulator of FIG. 1 taken at I-I of FIG. 3;
FIG. 6B is a second exemplary cross-sectional view of the regulator of FIG. 1 taken at I-I of FIG. 3;
FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of the regulator of FIG. 1 taken at II-II of FIG. 3;
FIG. 8A is a front cross-sectional view of the regulator of FIG. 1, showing the regulator in a closed position;
FIG. 8B is a top cross-sectional view of the regulator of FIG. 1, showing the regulator in a closed position;
FIG. 9A is a front cross-sectional view of the regulator of FIG. 1, showing the regulator in a partially open position;
FIG. 9B is a top cross-sectional view of the regulator of FIG. 1, showing the regulator in a partially open position;
FIG. 10A is a front cross-sectional view of the regulator of FIG. 1, showing the regulator in a fully open position;
FIG. 10B is a top cross-sectional view of the regulator of FIG. 1, showing the regulator in a fully open position;
FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of a second exemplary valve stem assembled in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure;
FIG. 11A is a cross-sectional view of the valve stem of FIG. 11 taken at A-A;
FIG. 11B is a cross-sectional view of the valve stem of FIG. 11 taken at B-B;
FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view of a third example valve stem assembled in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure;
FIG. 12A is a cross-sectional view of the valve stem of FIG. 12 taken at A-A;
FIG. 12B is a cross-sectional view of the valve stem of FIG. 12 taken at B-B;
FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of a fourth exemplary valve stem assembled in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure;
FIG. 13A is a cross-sectional view of the valve stem of FIG. 13 taken at A-A;
FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of a fifth exemplary valve stem assembled in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure;
FIG. 14A is a cross-sectional view of the valve stem of FIG. 14 taken at A-A;
FIG. 14B is a cross-sectional view of the valve stem of FIG. 14 taken at B-B;
FIG. 14C is a cross-sectional view of the valve stem of FIG. 14 taken at C-C;
FIG. 14D is a cross-sectional view of the valve stem of FIG. 14 taken at D-D;
FIG. 15 is an enlarged view of FIG. 3 showing a first exemplary indicator assembly of the regulator of FIG. 1;
FIG. 16 is a partial cross-sectional view of a second example indicator assembly assembled and disposed in the regulator of FIG. 1 in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure;
FIG. 16A is a partial cross-sectional view of the indicator assembly of FIG. 16 taken at A-A;
FIG. 16B is a partial side view of the indicator assembly of FIG. 16;
FIG. 17 is a partial cross-sectional view of a third example indicator assembly assembled and disposed in the regulator of FIG. 1 in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure; and
FIG. 18 is a partial cross-sectional view of a fourth example indicator assembly assembled and disposed in the regulator of FIG. 1 according to the teachings of the present disclosure.
Detailed Description
In fig. 1-3, an example fluid regulator 10 is constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure. The regulator 10 includes a valve body 14 having a central bore 18 and an actuator assembly 22 disposed in the bore 18. The valve body 14 defines an inlet 26, an outlet 30, and a flow path 34 connecting the inlet 26 and the outlet 30. The bore 18 formed in the valve body 14 is centered on the longitudinal axis X of the valve body 14, and the flow path 34 is disposed circumferentially relative to the bore 18. The control element 38 is movable relative to the valve body 14 between a closed position (fig. 3) in which the control element 38 engages a valve seat 42 disposed in the flow path 34, and an open position (fig. 1) in which the control element 38 is spaced apart from the valve seat 42. Actuator assembly 22 is operably coupled to control element 38 and is configured to move control element 38 axially along longitudinal axis X to open and close regulator 10. Inlet fitting 46 is coupled to valve body 14 at inlet 26 and is configured to retain actuator assembly 22 and control element 38 within bore 18 of valve body 14. The inlet fitting 46 is removably coupled to the valve body 14. For example, external threads on the inlet fitting 46 may couple to internal threads in the inlet 26 of the valve body 14. Similarly, the inlet fitting 46 may be bolted to the inlet 26 of the valve body 14. Because the inlet fitting 46 is removable from the valve body 14, the internal components of the regulator 10 (e.g., the actuator assembly 22 and the control element 38) can be inserted and removed through the inlet 26. However, in another example, the inlet 26 and the outlet 30 may be switched (i.e., such that fluid flows from right to left in fig. 1-3), in which case the internal components of the regulator 10 would be removably disposed through the outlet 30 of the valve body 14. In either example, the valve body 14 may be a single cast (e.g., integrally formed) valve body 14.
As shown in fig. 2, the internal components of the regulator 10 are configured to be aligned with the longitudinal axis X of the valve body 14. Specifically, sleeve 50 is configured to align valve stem 54, first piston 60, and second piston 62 with control element 38 such that actuator assembly 22 and control element 38 are properly aligned within bore 18 of valve body 14. For example, the first plate 70 and the second plate 72 each define an aperture 87, 89, respectively, that is aligned with the longitudinal axis E of the sleeve 50. When the sleeve 50 is disposed in the bore 18, the longitudinal axis E is coaxial with the longitudinal axis X of the valve body 14. The cylindrical wall 66 of the sleeve is shaped to substantially match the contoured wall defining the bore 18 of the valve body 14 such that the sleeve 50 is properly axially aligned when the sleeve 50 is fully inserted into the valve body 14. The sleeve 50 includes a first end 51 and a second end 53. In the illustrated embodiment, the first end 51 has an inner diameter S1And the inner diameter S of the second end 532Different. However, in other embodiments, different sleeve geometries may be used, such as to correspond to different geometries of the bore 18. Inner diameter S of first end 511Is sized and shaped to slidably receive the control element 38. The second end 53 is configured to abut an inner wall of the valve body 14 such that when the inlet fitting 46 is secured to the valve body 14, the internal components of the regulator 10 are secured (e.g., clamped) in place. When the control element 38 is in the fully open position, the second piston 62 is adjacent the second end 53 of the sleeve 50.
In operation, actuator assembly 22 actuates control element 38 between the open and closed positions in response to a balance of fluid pressures acting in first, second, third, and fourth chambers 88, 90, 92, 94 of first and second pistons 60, 62. In the illustrated example, the first and third chambers 88, 92 are in fluid communication via a path 76 (described below) formed in the sleeve portions 50a, 50b, and the second and fourth chambers 90, 94 are in fluid communication via the passageway 82 of the valve stem 53. The fluid pressure in the first and third chambers 88, 92 acts on the upstream surfaces 78, 80 of the first and second pistons 60, 62, respectively, to urge the first and second pistons 60, 62 in the first direction H toward the open position of the regulator 10. The fluid pressure in the second and fourth chambers 90, 94 acts on the downstream surfaces 84, 86 of the first and second pistons 60, 62, respectively, to urge the first and second pistons 60, 62 in a second direction G (opposite the first direction H) toward the closed position of the regulator 10.
The chambers 88, 90, 92, and 94 of the regulator 10 may be defined relative to the location of the inlet 26 and outlet 30 and generally along the direction of fluid flow. For example, fluid generally flows in a direction from the inlet 26 toward the outlet 30 such that the first chamber 88 is an upstream chamber of the first piston 60 (i.e., the first upstream chamber 88) and the second chamber 90 is a downstream chamber of the first piston 60 (i.e., the first downstream chamber 90). Similarly, the third chamber 92 is an upstream chamber of the second piston 62 (i.e., the second upstream chamber 92), and the fourth chamber 94 is a downstream chamber of the second piston 62 (i.e., the second downstream chamber 94). Through pathways in the sleeve 50 and/or the valve stem 54, the first and second upstream chambers 88, 92 are in fluid communication with each other, and the first and second downstream chambers 90, 94 are in fluid communication with each other.
The regulator 10 also includes a spring 100, a cage 104, and a seal assembly 108 secured in the valve body 14 by the inlet fitting 46. The spring 100 is disposed between a spring seat 112 formed in the first plate 70 of the sleeve 50 and a spring seat 116 formed in the control element 38. As shown in fig. 1 and 3, the control element 38 includes a plurality of spokes 120 extending between a central hub 124 and an outer ring 128 surrounding the spring 100. The central hub 124 defines a hub aperture 130, the hub aperture 130 being sized to receive a first end 132 of the valve stem 54. As shown in fig. 3, the spokes 120 of the control element 38 extend radially outward at an angle from the central hub 124. The orifices between the spokes 120 enable the fluid pressure at the inlet 26 to act uniformly on the upstream and downstream sides of the surface of the control element 38, such that the fluid inlet pressure is not used to push the control element 38 in the direction H. The control element 38 is configured to slide with the valve stem 54 relative to the cage 104 and relative to the sleeve 50 between an open position and a closed position. In the closed position, the outer ring 128 of the control element 38 engages the seal assembly 108 to prevent fluid flow from the inlet 26 to the outlet 30. Specifically, as described in greater detail below, a radially outward portion of an upstream end of the outer ring 128 (opposite the spring seat 116) is configured to engage a radial seal assembly 144 of the valve seat 42. One or more seals may be disposed between control element 38 and sleeve 50.
Fig. 3 shows a spacer 134 coupled to the inlet end of the valve body 14. In operation, the spacer 134 is clamped between a flange at the upstream end of the regulator 10 and a corresponding flange (not shown) positioned upstream of the spacer 134 by bolts that bridge between the flanges and compress a washer 136 positioned between the spacer 134 and each flange (only one such washer 136 is shown). Spacers 134 may be removed by removing these bolts to enable insertion or removal of internal components of regulator 14 (e.g., seal assembly 108, actuator assembly 22 components, control element 38 components, etc.) when regulator 10 is installed.
Fig. 4A illustrates the seal assembly 108 of fig. 3 in more detail. The seal assembly 108 includes a retaining ring 140 and a radial seal ring 144, the radial seal ring 144 being disposed in a groove between the retaining ring 140 and the inlet fitting 46. In the closed position, outer ring 128 of control element 38 can sealingly engage sealing ring 144 to provide a fluid-tight engagement. Radial seal ring 144 is formed of a material such as Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) that provides wear and chemical resistance and a low sealing force against control element 38. When the regulator 10 is in the closed position, the first O-ring 152 is positioned radially outward of the radial seal ring 144 within the groove between the retaining ring 140 and the inlet fitting 46 to urge the radial seal ring 144 into contact with the control element 38. A second O-ring 152 is positioned between the retaining ring 140 and the inlet fitting 46. Fasteners 148 secure retaining ring 140 in place relative to inlet fitting 46.
Fig. 4B and 4C illustrate the actuator assembly 22 of fig. 3 in greater detail. In these figures, the connections between the valve stem 54 and the first plate 70, between the valve stem 54 and the second plate 72, between the valve stem 54 and the first piston 60, and between the valve stem 54 and the second piston 62 are more clearly shown. These figures also show the varying diameter (or thickness) along the length of the valve stem 54. Each of the varying diameters of valve stem 54 is sized to specifically match one of first plate 70, first piston 60, second plate 72, and second piston 62. The valve stem 54 is divided into sections or portions that slide relative to a first plate 70 of the sleeve 50 and relative to a second plate 72 of the sleeve 50. In fig. 4B, the first portion 156 of the valve stem 54 is disposed through the aperture 87 of the first plate 70. The aperture 87 of the first plate 70 is specifically sized to receive the first portion 156 of the valve stem 54, which has an outer diameter D1. A packing assembly 164 is secured to the first plate 70 and configured to allow the valve stem 54 to slide relative to the first plate 70 while providing a sealed connection between the first plate 70 and the first portion 156 of the valve stem 54And (6) connecting. Fig. 4B also shows the first piston 60 attached to a stepped portion 166 formed in the outer surface of the valve stem 54. First piston 60 is secured to valve stem 54 via a retaining plate 168 and fasteners 170. The retainer plate 168 is disposed in an annular groove 174 formed in the valve stem 54 and is sized to receive the retainer plate 168 such that the first piston 60 does not slide relative to the valve stem 54. Turning to FIG. 4C, the aperture 89 of the second plate 72 is specifically sized to receive a second portion 182 of the valve stem 54 having an outer diameter D2And the outer diameter D of the first portion 1561Different. Fig. 4C also shows the second piston 62 attached to a stepped portion 184 formed in the outer surface of the valve stem 54. The second piston 62 is fixed to the valve stem 54 via a retaining cap 186, the retaining cap 186 being screwed onto the valve stem 54. In other examples, the second piston 62 may be secured to the valve stem 54 by other suitable connections.
As shown in FIG. 5, the stepped portions 166, 184 and the different outer diameters D of the valve stem 541、D2Corresponding to the particular arrangement of the valve stem 54 relative to the first and second plates 70, 72 of the sleeve 50. In operation, the valve stem 54 is along the length L of the first portion 1561Slides relative to the first plate 70 of the sleeve 50 and along the length L of the second portion 1822Sliding relative to the second plate 72 of the sleeve 50. The geometric configuration of the valve stem 54 and the valve body 14 ensures that the first plate 70, the second plate 72, the first piston 60, and the second piston 62 are properly aligned within the valve body 14.
As shown in fig. 4B, 4C and 5, the respective engagement between the valve stem 54 and the first and second plates 70, 72 of the sleeve 50 also ensures proper alignment of the path 76 connecting the first and third chambers 88, 92 and proper alignment of the passage 82 formed in the valve stem 54 connecting the second and fourth chambers 90, 94. As shown in fig. 4B, the passageway 82 includes a radial channel 194 (e.g., extending in a radial direction relative to the longitudinal axis X) and a longitudinal channel 198 centrally disposed in the second portion of the valve stem 54 and extending axially through a second end 200 of the valve stem 54. The radial passage 194 is in fluid communication with the second chamber 90 and is positioned adjacent the downstream surface 84 of the first piston 60. The longitudinal passage 198 extends axially along the longitudinal axis X of the valve body 14 and terminates in the fourth chamber 94. The radial channels 194 are perpendicular to the longitudinal channels 198, however, in other examples, the channels 194, 198 may not be perpendicular to each other, but may be non-parallel. Further, the valve stem 54 may be a plurality of connected components to provide a valve stem configuration and may have a plurality of passages extending parallel and/or staggered relative to one another to connect the different chambers 88, 90, 92, and 94 of the actuator assembly 22.
Turning briefly to fig. 3, the path 76 formed in the sleeve 50 is partially illustrated. The path 76 includes one or more channels having both a lateral portion 202 depicted in fig. 3 and an axial portion hidden from view in fig. 3. Each lateral portion 202 extends radially inward from the cylindrical wall 66 within a portion of the second plate 72. Each lateral portion 202 of the path 76 is connected to an aperture 204 formed in the downstream surface of the second plate 72 of the sleeve 50 to provide fluid communication between the lateral portion 202 of the path 76 and the third chamber 92. Turning now to fig. 6A and 6B, first and second exemplary arrangements of axial portions of a path 76 formed in the sleeve 50 are shown. Turning first to fig. 6A, the axial portion of the pathway 76 includes one or more channels 206A (four channels are shown, but more or fewer channels may be employed in different arrangements), with each channel 206A extending through the cylindrical wall 66 of the sleeve 50 to connect the first chamber 88 with the lateral portion 202 of the pathway 76. The passage 206A is formed in an outer surface 210 of the sleeve 50 such that the path 76 is at least partially defined between the sleeve 50 and the valve body 14. In the second exemplary arrangement in fig. 6B, an axial portion of the path 76 includes one or more passages 206B formed between the inner surface 214 of the cylindrical wall 66 and the outer surface 210 of the cylindrical wall 66, such that an axial portion of each passage 206B is embedded within the cylindrical wall 66 of the sleeve 50. In either arrangement, the axial portion 206 of the path 76 ultimately extends between the lateral portion 202 and the upstream end of the second sleeve portion 50 b. The downstream surface of the first plate 70 includes one or more grooves that comprise another portion of the path 76 such that the first and third chambers 88, 92 are fluidly connected.
Fig. 7 of the regulator 10 shows a drain hole 21 formed in the valve body 14. The drain hole 218 fluidly couples the flow path 34 of the valve body 14 with the atmosphere and may provide an access port to drain process fluid (e.g., coalesced droplets) remaining in the valve body 14. The drain hole 218 may be sealed with a plug accessible from an exterior surface 222 of the valve body 14.
Fig. 8A, 8B, 9A, 9B, 10A and 10B show front and top views of the regulator 10 in a closed position (fig. 8A, 8B), a partially open position (fig. 9A, 9B) and a fully open position (fig. 10A, 10B). The pilot device may be operatively coupled to the regulator 10 to control the movement of the piston of the actuator assembly 22 and regulate the flow through the regulator 10. Specifically, the pilot device may be configured to sense a fluid pressure upstream or downstream of the regulator 10 and adjust a loading pressure supplied to actuate the regulator 10 accordingly. In the example shown, a first passage 226 (fig. 8B, 9B, 10B) extends laterally (radially outward from the longitudinal axis X) through the sidewall of the valve body 14 and terminates at the bore 18 to provide an external fluid connection with the path 76. The second sleeve portion 50B is configured such that axial portions (e.g., 206A, 206B) of the path 76 are fluidly coupled with the first passage 226. As such, first passage 226 is in fluid communication with first chamber 88 and third chamber 92 via path 76. A second passage 230 extends laterally through the sidewall of the valve body 14 and terminates at the bore 18 to provide an external fluid connection with the fourth chamber 94. As such, the second passage 230 is in fluid communication with the second and fourth chambers 90, 94 via the second passage 82 in the valve stem 54. The passages 226, 230 may be located in other portions of the valve body 14 and/or may be configured to provide fluid pressure to other portions of the actuator assembly 22 inside the valve body 14. As described below, the channels 226, 230 may terminate at a connection fitting (e.g., a tube fitting) at an outer surface of the valve body 14 to facilitate connection to the sensing and loading lines.
In a typical arrangement, the second passage 230 receives downstream pressure via a sense line and the first passage 226 receives load pressure from the pilot device via a load line, such that the regulator 10 functions as a pressure reducing regulator. In this arrangement, the pilot device supplies the downstream pressure as the loading pressure to the first passage 226 when the downstream pressure is at or above the pressure set point of the pilot device. Thus, the force generated by the spring 100 and the fluid pressures in the second and fourth chambers 90, 94 acting on the downstream surfaces 84, 86 of the first and second pistons 60, 62, respectively (i.e., the downstream pressure) exceeds the force generated by the fluid pressures in the first and third chambers 88, 92 acting on the upstream surfaces 78, 80 of the first and second pistons 60, 62, respectively (i.e., the downstream pressure). As a result, the shaft 54 and connected control element 38 move completely in direction G until the first and second pistons 60 and 62 are adjacent the first and second plates 70 and 72 and the control element 38 engages the valve seat 42 as shown in fig. 8A and 8B. In this position, fluid is prevented from flowing from the inlet 26 to the outlet 30.
When the downstream demand increases such that the downstream pressure drops below the pilot device's pressure set point, the pilot device provides the increased pressure (i.e., a pressure greater than the downstream pressure) to the first passage 226 as the loading pressure. At this increased loading pressure, the force generated by the fluid pressure in the first and third chambers 88, 92 acting on the upstream surfaces 78, 80 of the first and second pistons 60, 62, respectively (i.e., the increased loading pressure) exceeds the force generated by the spring 100 and the fluid pressure in the second and fourth chambers 90, 94 acting on the downstream surfaces 84, 86 of the first and second pistons 60, 62, respectively (i.e., the downstream pressure). As a result, shaft 54 and attached control element 38 move in direction H, which disengages control element 38 from seat 42 and enables fluid to flow from inlet 26 to outlet 30. The force balance determines the actual position of the shaft 54 and attached control element 38, and the flow capacity of the regulator 10 increases as the control element 38 moves in direction H away from the seat 42 to the partially open position of fig. 9A and 9B and further to the fully open position of fig. 10A and 10B. While the above examples describe exemplary connections of the pilot device to the first and second passages 226, 230, the regulator 10 may be configured differently. For example, the first passage 226 may instead be connected to an upstream pressure, and the second passage 230 may be connected to a loading pressure supplied by a pilot device, such that the regulator 10 functions as a back pressure regulator.
Turning now to fig. 11-14, an alternative valve stem arrangement for use with the axial adjuster 10 of fig. 1-10 is constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure. Second, third, fourth, and fifth example valve stems 236, 238, 240, 242 are configured to be slidably coupled to sleeve 50 of actuator assembly 22 and thus may replace first example valve stem 54. Each of second, third, fourth, and fifth example valve stems 236, 238, 240, and 242 defines a first passageway to fluidly couple second and fourth chambers 90, 94 and a second passageway to fluidly couple first and third chambers 88, 92. Accordingly, an actuator assembly 22 utilizing one of the second, third, fourth, and fifth example valve stems 236, 238, 240, and 242 may include a sleeve 50 similar to the first example sleeve 50 shown in the previous figures, but without one or more of the paths 76 formed in the cylindrical sleeve 50.
In fig. 11, 11A, and 11B, the second example valve stem 236 extends between a first end 244 and a second end 246 and includes a first passageway 248, a second passageway 250, and a third passageway 252. Valve stem 236 may include the same shape as valve stem 54 of FIG. 5 to facilitate assembly with dual piston actuator assembly 22. Similar to the valve stem 54 of FIG. 5, the longitudinal axis F of the second example valve stem 236 is coaxial with the longitudinal axis X of the valve body 14. Additionally, the valve stem 236 includes a valve stem having a diameter D1And has a first portion 256 and a diameter D2And a second portion 260. The first stepped portion 264 spaces the first portion 256 and the second portion 260 of the valve stem 236, and the second stepped portion 268 spaces the second portion 260 and the second end 246. Similar to the passageway 82 of the valve stem 54 of fig. 5, a first passageway 248 extends partially through the valve stem 236 in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis F. The first passageway 248 includes a radial channel 272 (e.g., extending in a radial direction relative to the longitudinal axis F) and a longitudinal channel 276 extending between the radial channel 272 and the second end 246 of the valve stem 236. More specifically, the radial passage 272 extends through an outer surface 280 of the valve stem 248 in the second portion 260 such that the radial passage 272 is in fluid communication with the second chamber 90 and is positioned adjacent the downstream surface 84 of the first piston 60A bit. The longitudinal passage 276 extends axially relative to the longitudinal axis X of the valve body 14 and terminates in the fourth chamber 94.
In contrast to the valve stem 54 of FIG. 5, the second example valve stem 236 is configured to fluidly couple the first chamber 88 and the third chamber 92 of the regulator 10. The second and third passageways 250, 252 are symmetrical about the longitudinal F axis of the valve stem 236 and extend between the first portion 256 to the second portion 260 of the valve stem 236. The second passageway 250 includes a first radial passage 284 formed in the first portion 256 of the valve stem 236, a second radial passage 288 formed in the second portion 260 of the valve stem 236, and a longitudinal passage 292 extending between the first radial passage 284 and the second radial passage 288. The first and second radial passages 284, 288 are positioned relative to the valve stem 236 such that the second passageway 250 is in fluid communication with the first and third chambers 88, 92 of the regulator 10. Thus, it will be appreciated that, for example, the first and second plates 70, 72 of the sleeve 50 are shaped to allow fluid communication between the first and third chambers 88, 92 via the radial passages 284, 288, and are connected to the longitudinal passage 292. It should also be understood that third passageway 252 is substantially similar to second passageway 250, such that any details of second passageway 250 apply equally to third passageway 252. The first passage 248, the second passage 250, and the third passage 252 may have the same inner diameter, or the inner diameter of the first passage 248 may be larger than the inner diameter of each of the second passage 250 and the third passage 252. In one example, the combined flow capacity of the second and third passageways 250, 252 substantially matches the flow capacity of the first passageway 248.
In fig. 12, 12A and 12B, a third example valve stem 238 is constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure. The third example valve stem 238 is similar to the second example valve stem 236 of fig. 11, 11A, and 11B, however, the valve stem 238 includes a first passageway and a second passageway. Similar to the second example valve stem 238, the first passageway 248 is axially aligned with the longitudinal axis F and the second passageway 250 is parallel to and radially offset from the longitudinal axis F. Additionally, the longitudinal axis F of the third example valve stem 238 is coaxial with the longitudinal axis X of the valve body 14. In the example shown, the inner diameter of the first passageway 248 is equal to the inner diameter of the second passageway 250. However, in other examples, the inner diameters of the passageways 248, 250 are different. In yet another example, both the first passage 248 and the second passage 250 may be radially offset relative to the longitudinal axis F.
In fig. 13 and 13A, a fourth example valve stem 240 is constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure. When the fourth example valve stem 240 is disposed in the valve body 14, the longitudinal axis F of the valve stem 240 is coaxial with the longitudinal axis X of the valve body 14. The fourth example valve stem 240 is similar to the second example valve stem 236 of fig. 11, 11A, and 11B, however, a second passageway 250 and a third passageway 252 extend from the first end 244 to the second portion 260 of the valve stem 240. For ease of manufacture, the first passageway 248 is formed by drilling the longitudinal passage 276 from the second end 246, and the second and third passageways 250, 252 are formed by drilling the longitudinal passage 292 from the first end 244 of the valve stem 240. The radial channel 294 extends through the first portion 256 of the valve stem 240 to connect the longitudinal channels 292 of the first and second passageways 250, 252. The stop 296 is perpendicularly disposed with respect to the longitudinal passages 292 of the second and third passageways 250, 252 to isolate the fluid communication of the second and third passageways 250, 252 between the first and third chambers 88, 92. To further isolate the longitudinal passages 292 of the second and third passageways 250, 252, the stops 300, 302 are disposed in one of the longitudinal passages 292 at the first end of the valve stem 240.
In fig. 14, 14A, 14B, 14C and 14D, a fifth exemplary valve stem 242 is constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure. The fifth example valve stem 242 is formed by overlapping the first, second, and third passages without connecting the first passage 248 with either the second passage 250 or the third passage 252. When the fifth example valve stem 242 is disposed in the valve body 14, the longitudinal axis F of the valve stem 242 is coaxial with the longitudinal axis X of the valve body 14. Such an overlapping structure may be formed using Additive Manufacturing (AM) techniques. As shown in fig. 14A, the radial channels 272 of the first passageway 248 are angled such that the radial channels 272 do not connect with the second passageway 250 and the third passageway 252. In fig. 14B, the first passage 248, the second passage 250, and the third passage 252 are aligned such that the first passage 248 is axially aligned with the longitudinal axis F, and each of the second passage 250 and the third passage 252 are radially offset from the longitudinal axis F and evenly spaced from the first passage 248. However, as shown in fig. 14C, the first passageway 248 is radially offset relative to the longitudinal axis F such that the first passageway 248 does not intersect the second radial passage 306 (disposed through the second portion 260 of the valve stem 242) of the second and third passageways 250, 252. As shown in fig. 14C, the first passageway 248 curves around the radial second passageway 306 of the second and third passageways 250, 252 such that the first passageway 248 is axially aligned with the longitudinal axis F at the second end 246 of the valve stem 242 as shown in fig. 14D.
In FIG. 15, a first exemplary indicator assembly 96 is constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure. the indicator assembly 96 is operatively coupled to the regulator 10 and provides a visual display based on the position of the regulator 10. the visual display is located externally relative to the valve body 14 such that an operator will know the position of the control element 38 from a distance. in particular, the indicator assembly 96 is operatively coupled to the valve stem 54 such that the valve stem 54 causes the indicator assembly 96 to display a change in position of the control element 38 as the control element 38 moves between the open and closed positions. the indicator assembly 96 is at least partially disposed in a radial bore 310 formed in the valve body 14 and includes a stem 314, an indicator 318 operatively coupled to the stem 314, a spring 320, and a plug 322. the stem 314 is disposed perpendicularly relative to the longitudinal axis X of the valve body 14 and is aligned with the longitudinal axis Y. the stem 314 of the indicator assembly 96 is capable of moving between a first position when the control element 38 is in the closed position (as shown in FIGS. 3, 8A and 15) and a second position when the control element 38 is in the open position (as shown in FIGS. 1. the longitudinal axis Y is aligned with the longitudinal axis Y) the indicator assembly 96 is capable of moving between the first position and the longitudinal axis of adjusting the longitudinal axis of the valve body between the open position of the valve body 38, the longitudinal axis 14, the indicator assembly is understood to be between the longitudinal axis of the angle of the first position of the indicator assembly is between the longitudinal axis 14, the indicator assembly is between the longitudinal axis 14, the angle of the longitudinal axis 14, the angle of the indicator assembly is between the angle of the first position of the indicator assembly is between the longitudinal axis 83, the longitudinal axis 14, the.
In FIG. 15, the stem 314 includes a first end 326 slidably coupled to the second end 200 of the valve stem 54 and a second end 330 spaced from the first end 326 and operatively coupled to the indicator 318. in particular, the first end 326 of the stem 314 is slidably coupled to a tapered cap 334, the tapered cap 334 being fixed to the second end 200 of the valve stem 54. the cap 334 has an aperture 338 sized to receive the second end 200 of the valve stem 54 and be in fluid communication with the passageway 82 of the valve stem 54 to maintain fluid communication between the passageway 82 and the fourth chamber 94. the cap 334 has a ramped outer surface 342 that tapers from a wide first end 344 to a narrow second end 348. in other words, the outer diameter of the second end 348 of the cap 334 is less than the outer diameter of the first end 344 of the cap 334 such that as the valve stem 54 moves axially relative to the longitudinal axis X of the valve body 14, the stem 314 is axially displaced relative to the longitudinal axis Y. in particular, the outer surface 342 of the cap 334 is ramped relative to the longitudinal axis X according to an angle α. in FIG. 15, the second end of the cap 348 firmly contacts the stem 314 and the ball 352 moves relative to the valve stem 54 between the closed position 352 and the ball 352.
The rod 314 moves axially along the Y-axis (e.g., upward in the J direction and downward in the K direction) to move the indicator 318 outside of the valve body 14 depending on the position of the control element 38. A guide sleeve 356 is disposed between the valve body 14 and the stem 314 to stably guide the stem 314. The extent to which the indicator 318 extends outside of the valve body 14 indicates the degree of opening of the regulator 10. For example, when control element 38 is in the open position, ball 352 is in contact with first end 344 of cap 334 and indicator 318 is fully extended in direction J. When control element 30 is in the closed position, ball 352 contacts second end 348 of cap 334 and indicator 318 is fully retracted in direction K. The extension of the indicator 318 relative to the valve body 14 as shown in fig. 10A (fully open) is greater than the extension of the indicator 318 relative to the valve body 14 as shown in fig. 9A (partially open), and the extension of the indicator 318 relative to the valve body 14 as shown in fig. 9A is in turn greater than the extension of the indicator 318 relative to the valve body 14 as shown in fig. 8A because the stem 314 is displaced a minimum amount when the ball 352 is adjacent the second end 348 of the cap 334 (in the closed position) and the stem 314 is displaced a maximum amount when the ball 352 is adjacent the first end 344 of the cap 334 (in the open position).
In general operation, when the regulator 10 is opened, the actuator assembly 22 causes the valve stem 54 to move in the direction H. As the valve stem 54 moves, the angled surface 342 of the cap 334 slides against the ball 352 and pushes the rod 314 in the J direction, which is perpendicular relative to the H direction. The lever 314 carrying the indicator 318 moves the indicator 318 in the J direction such that the indicator 318 extends outside of the valve body 14 and slides into view relative to the cover 372 to show the positioning of the regulator 10. As the lever moves in the J direction, the lever 314 causes the spring seat 360 to compress the spring 320 against the plug 322, such that when the valve stem 54 moves in the G direction, the spring 320 expands and biases the spring seat 360 to move the lever 314 in the K direction (opposite the J direction). As the lever 314 moves in the K direction, the indicator 318 also moves in the K direction and slides out of view relative to the cover 372.
As shown in FIG. 15, the indicator assembly 96 is perpendicular relative to the longitudinal axis F of the valve stem and the longitudinal axis X of the valve body 14 such that the angle β is 90 degrees to determine the displacement of the valve stem 54 or the displacement of the stem 414, the following equation may be used:
where L is the displacement of the travel indicator 318, Δ x is the displacement of the valve stem 54, and Δ h is the displacement of the rod 314 in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the valve stem 54 since the angle β is 90 °, the equation can be simplified as follows:
L＝Δh＝Δx tan∝
although the travel indicator assembly 96 has been described in the context of using the travel indicator assembly 96 in the pressure regulator 10, the travel indicator assembly 96 may also be used in other types of fluid control devices. As will be described further below, different iterations of the travel indicator assembly may include at least one feature operatively coupled to the stem and operatively coupled to the valve stem to indicate the travel of the valve stem of the pressure regulator or other fluid control device. In the examples below, the ball feature of the travel indicator assembly is replaced by, for example, a rack and pinion feature, a cable and roller feature, or an articulated arm feature.
Fig. 16 illustrates a second example indicator assembly 496 constructed in accordance with the teachings within this disclosure. A second example indicator assembly 496 may be substituted for the first example indicator assembly 96 to operate with the regulator 10 of fig. 1-10B. The second example indicator assembly 496 is similar to the indicator assembly 96 discussed above except that in the rack and pinion embodiment (fig. 16A), the second example indicator assembly 496 utilizes engagement of the valve stem 54 and the lever 414 to translate axial movement of the valve stem 54 of the regulator 10 (e.g., in the G-direction and the H-direction) into rotational movement of the lever 414 (e.g., in the R-direction and the T-direction) to display positioning of the control element 38, or alternatively, in the rack and pinion embodiment (fig. 16B), the second example indicator assembly 496 utilizes engagement of the valve stem 54 and the lever 414 to translate axial movement of the valve stem 54 (e.g., in the G-and H-directions) into axial movement of the lever 414 (e.g., in the J-and K-directions) to display positioning of the control element 38. Elements of the second example indicator assembly 496 that are similar to elements of the first example indicator assembly 96 are identified by the same reference numerals incremented by 100. The description of many of these elements is abbreviated or even omitted for the sake of brevity.
The second example indicator assembly 496 of fig. 16 is arranged in a rack and pinion configuration or in a rack and pinion configuration (fig. 16B). In the rack and pinion embodiment shown in fig. 16A, when the valve stem is moved axially along the longitudinal axis X, the indicator 418 of the indicator assembly 496 does not move vertically along the Y axis, but instead rotates relative to the Y axis. For example, movement of the valve stem 54 in the H direction causes the stem 414 of the indicator assembly 496 to rotate in the T direction about the longitudinal axis Y of the valve stem 414. The rotational movement of the indicator assembly 496 can be configured in a number of different ways. In the example shown in fig. 16A, the stem 414 has a corrugated outer surface 452 that provides a plurality of teeth configured to matingly engage the corrugated outer surface 442 of the second end 200 of the valve stem 54. The teeth of the outer surface 452 of the stem 414 engage with the teeth of the corrugated surface 442 of the stem 54 such that when the stem 54 is moved axially in the G-direction or H-direction, the stem 54 engages the teeth of the stem 414 to rotate the stem 414 in the T-direction or R-direction, respectively. The teeth of the corrugated surface 442 of the valve stem and the outer surface 452 of the stem 414 may be arranged to provide a particular gear ratio to provide a desired degree of rotation of the stem 414 corresponding to a full linear stroke of the valve stem 54.
As indicator 418 rotates, the position of control element 38 may be displayed based on the rotational position of indicator 418. In the example shown, the second piston 62 is adjacent the second end 53 of the sleeve 50 such that the control element 38 is in the open position. In the open position, the indicator 418 displays a triangular shaped indicia with the tip pointing toward the inlet 26 of the valve body 14. In the closed position, the indicia of the indicator 418 may be configured to point toward the outlet 30 of the valve body 14. In another example, the indicia of the indicator 418 may be directed toward the inlet 26 when the regulator 10 is closed, and the indicia of the indicator 418 may be directed toward the outlet 30 when the regulator 10 is open. The indicator 418 may display the positioning of the regulator 10 in other ways (e.g., by exposing a different color or displaying text as the indicator 418 is rotated in the display housing or cover 472). In still other examples, the indicator 418 provides a different visual signal to communicate the position of the regulator 10. For example, the indicator may match different measurements or markings on the cover 472 based on the position of the adjuster 10.
In operation, the valve stem 54 moves in the direction H to open the regulator 10. The corrugated outer surface 442 of the valve stem 54 engages the corrugated outer surface 452 of the stem 414, thereby causing the stem 414 to rotate in the T direction about the Y axis (counterclockwise in fig. 16A). As shown in fig. 16, the regulator 10 is in the fully open position with the indicia of the indicator 418 facing away from the outlet 30 (i.e., toward the inlet 26). When the regulator 10 is closed, the valve stem 54 moves in the G direction (opposite the H direction) and engages the lever 414 to rotate the lever 414 about the Y axis in the R direction (clockwise in fig. 16A). Rotation of the lever 414 causes rotation of the flag of the indicator 418 such that the flag of the indicator 418 is directed toward the outlet 30 of the valve body 14 when the control element 38 is in the closed position.
In the rack and pinion embodiment shown in fig. 16B, the stem 414 includes a helical thread 474, the helical thread 474 configured to engage the helical thread 476 of the valve stem 54. In this embodiment, when the valve stem 54 moves in the G or H direction, the helical thread 476 of the valve stem 54 engages the helical thread 474 of the stem 414 to move the stem 414 axially in the J or K direction. When the valve stem 54 is moved in the H direction, the helical thread 476 of the valve stem 54 engages the helical thread 474 of the stem 414 to move the stem 414 in the J direction to extend the indicator 418 into the display cover 472. When the valve stem 54 is moved in the G direction, the helical thread 476 of the valve stem 54 engages the helical thread 474 of the stem 414 to move the stem 414 in the K direction to lower the indicator 418 within the display cover 472. Thus, like travel indicator assembly 96, the rack and rack arrangement of travel indicator assembly 496 indicates the position of regulator 10 based on the position of indicator 418 along the Y-axis. In another example, the indicator assembly 496 may be configured differently to convert axial movement of the valve stem 54 into rotational movement of the stem 414 and the indicator 418. In yet another example, the fluid regulator may be configured such that rotational movement of the valve stem 54 moves the control element 38 between the open and closed positions. In this case, the indicator assembly 496 would be configured to convert rotational movement of the valve stem 54 into axial movement of the stem 414 and the indicator 418 to display the positioning of the regulator 10.
Fig. 17 illustrates a third exemplary indicator assembly 596 constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure. A third example indicator assembly 596 may replace the first example indicator assembly 96 to operate with the regulator 10 of fig. 1-10B. The third example indicator assembly 596 is similar to the indicator assembly 96 discussed above, except that the third example indicator assembly 596 includes a cable 576 and a roller assembly 580 to translate axial movement of the valve stem 54 (e.g., in the G and H directions) into axial movement of the rod 514 (e.g., in the J and K directions). Elements of the third example indicator assembly 596 that are similar to elements of the first example indicator assembly 96 are indicated by the same reference numbers increased by 200. The description of many of these elements is abbreviated or even omitted for the sake of brevity.
As shown in fig. 17, the lever 514 is operatively coupled to the valve stem 54 by a cable 576 and a roller assembly 580. Specifically, the cord 576 is operably coupled to the second end 200 of the valve stem 54 at a first hook 552 and is operably coupled to the first end 526 of the lever 514 at a second hook 548. The roller assembly 580 is coupled to a cable 576 to transmit the displacement of the valve stem 54 to the lever 514 via the cable 576. The cable 576 is bent around the roller assembly 580 such that a portion of the cable 576 moves with the valve stem 54 in the G direction and the H direction and a portion of the cable 576 moves with the lever 514 in the J direction and the K direction. The cable 576 is a flexible material, such as steel wire, to bend around the roller assembly 580, but is sufficiently rigid such that the cable 576 remains taut between the valve stem 54 and the lever 514. Spring 520 is disposed between spring seat 560, which extends axially outward from rod 514, and plug 522. The spring 520 expands in the J direction when the valve stem 54 moves in the H direction, and the spring 520 compresses in the K direction when the valve stem 54 moves in the G direction. In operation, the valve stem 54 pulls the cable 576 in the G direction to close the regulator 10, and the lever 514 pulls the cable 576 in the J direction when the valve stem 54 moves in the H direction. The spring 520 helps to ensure that the wire rope 576 remains taught to respond properly to the movement of the valve stem 54. In this case, indicator 518 is a second end 530 of rod 514 such that rod 514 is slidably disposed through an aperture in plug 522 to extend outside of valve body 14 to indicate the positioning of control element 38. However, in another example, the lever 514 and the indicator element 518 are separate components.
FIG. 18 illustrates a fourth example indicator assembly 696 constructed in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure. The fourth example indicator assembly 696 may replace the first example indicator assembly 96 to operate with the regulator 10 of fig. 1-10B. The fourth example indicator assembly 696 is similar to the first example indicator assembly 96 discussed above, except that the fourth example indicator assembly 696 includes a rigid arm 684 connecting the valve stem 54 and the lever 614 to translate axial movement of the valve stem 54 (e.g., in the G and H directions) into axial movement of the lever 614 (e.g., in the J and K directions). Elements of the fourth example indicator assembly 696 that are similar to elements of the first example indicator assembly 96 are identified with the same reference numerals incremented by 300. The description of many of these elements is abbreviated or even omitted for the sake of brevity.
As shown in fig. 18, the arm 684 has a first end 688 hingedly coupled to the second end 200 of the valve stem 54 and a second end 692 hingedly coupled to the first end 626 of the lever 614. Similar to the third example indicator assembly 596, the lever 614 of the fourth example indicator assembly 696 is integrally formed with the indicator 618. The arm 685 is a rigid member that converts axial movement of the valve stem 54 into axial movement of the rod 614. When the regulator 10 is opened, the valve stem 54 pushes the first end 688 of the arm 684 in the H direction, which causes the second end 692 of the arm 684 to slide within the bore 610 of the valve body 14 in the J direction. The second end 692 is hingedly coupled to the first end 626 of the lever 614 to allow the arm 684 to rotate in the V-direction (swival) when the first end 688 moves in the H-direction. When the regulator 10 is closed, the valve stem 54 pulls the first end 688 of the arm 684 in the G direction, causing the second end 692 of the arm 684 to slide within the bore 610 of the valve body 14 in the K direction. When the first end 688 of the arm 684 is moved in the G direction, the arm 684 rotates in the M direction (opposite the V direction). In another example, the indicator assembly 696 may include a second arm 684 hingedly coupled to the valve stem 54 and the lever 614.
Referring again to FIG. 2, the method of assembling or installing the regulator 10 generally includes the steps of: providing a unitary cast valve body 14, assembling the actuator assembly 22, operably coupling the control element 38 to the valve stem 54, aligning the actuator assembly 22 with the longitudinal axis X of the valve body 14, inserting the actuator assembly 22 through the inlet 26 into the bore 18 of the valve body 14, and securing the actuator assembly 22 to the valve body 14 by operably coupling the inlet fitting 42 to the valve body 14. To assemble actuator assembly 22, first and second pistons 60 and 62 and first and second sleeve portions 50a and 50b are assembled to valve stem 54. Specifically, the step of assembling actuator assembly 22 includes sliding second end 200 of valve stem 54 through aperture 89 of second plate 70 and the aperture of second piston 62, and sliding first end 132 of valve stem 54 through the aperture of first piston 60 and the aperture 89 of second plate 72. As described above, the first piston 60 and the second piston 62 are fixed to the valve stem 54. The hub 130 of the control element 138 is slid onto the first end 132 of the valve stem 54 and secured thereto. The cap 334 is secured to the second end 200 of the valve stem 54. The valve stem 54 and components attached thereto are then fully inserted into the valve body 14 with the cage 104, and all internal components are maintained in the valve body 14 by securing the inlet fitting 46 to the inlet 26.
Advantageously, the axial adjuster 10 of the present disclosure simplifies adjuster construction, manufacture, maintenance and assembly. To access the internal components of the disclosed regulator 10, an operator need only remove the inlet fitting 46 from the valve body 14 and slide the internal components out of the bore 18 through the inlet 26, which may be accomplished with the regulator 10 installed in a pipeline via the spacer 134. Assembly of the regulator 10 is also simplified because the internal components can be properly positioned prior to insertion of the actuator assembly 22 into the valve body 14, thereby ensuring accurate alignment and placement of these components. Repair or replacement of the regulator components is also simplified and access to the internal components may be achieved through the access 26 or, in some cases, through a different access entry (access entry) than the access 26. The removability of the internal components further enables the valve body 14 to be used with different types of internal components to provide different functions. For example, various internal components may be inserted into the valve body 14 to enable the resulting device to be used as a control valve or a quick-closing safety valve. The valve stem 54 of the regulator 10 is also easy to assemble. As described above, the valve stem 54 has different portions with varying outer diameters. When the valve stem 54 is positioned relative to the sleeve 50 prior to insertion of the internal components into the valve body 14, the operator need only match the apertures 87, 89 of the plates 70, 72 of the sleeve 50 with the respective thicknesses (i.e., segments) of the valve stem 54. Additionally, prior to disposing actuator assembly 22 within valve body 14, an operator may ensure that passageway 82 of valve stem 54 fluidly connects first downstream chamber 90 and second downstream chamber 94, and that path 76 of sleeve 50 fluidly connects first upstream chamber 88 and second upstream chamber 92.
The dual piston actuator assembly 22 provides a compact design for the regulator 10 while providing sufficient pressure sensing area. The pistons 60, 62 are arranged in series, and the upstream and downstream chambers 88, 92, 90, 94, respectively, defined in part by each piston 60, 62 are in fluid communication. In this manner, dual piston actuator assembly 22 effectively provides a pressure sensing area similar to or even larger than that of a much larger single piston actuator assembly, but in a relatively compact configuration. The size of the regulator 10 is further reduced by the axial insertion of the internal components, which allows the valve body 14 to be a single component rather than multiple components connected with a large and heavy flange. The compact size enables the adjuster 10 to be designed to fit in large wire sizes (e.g., 12 inch wire), however the size and weight of prior art axial adjusters can limit the design of such adjusters to smaller wire sizes.
Additionally, actuator assembly 22 is arranged such that first and second pistons 60 and 62 move in sealing engagement with sleeve 50 rather than with the inner wall of valve body 14. This simplifies the manufacturing process since only the sleeve 50, and not the valve body 14, needs to be machined to provide a smooth sliding inner surface 214. Accordingly, the larger valve body 14 may be manufactured using lower cost techniques, such as rough casting rather than machining. Thus, the dual piston actuator assembly 22 thus reduces the manufacturing cost of the regulator 10.
Second, third, fourth, and fifth example valve stems 236, 238, 240, and 242 also simplify dual piston actuator assembly 22. As described above, each of second, third, fourth, and fifth example valve stems 236, 238, 240, and 242 provide at least two passageways to fluidly connect first and third chambers 88, 92, and second and fourth chambers 90, 94. Because each of the valve stems 236, 238, 240, and 242 provides a fluid connection between the first chamber 88 and the third chamber 92, the sleeve 50 of the regulator 10 may not include one or more paths 76 extending through the cylindrical portion 66 of the sleeve 50 and the second disk 72. In this manner, the regulator 10 will not require the same sealing mechanism disposed in the bore 18 and between the valve body 14 and the sleeve 50 to effectively seal the path 76 of the actuator assembly 22. Instead, the control pressure is transmitted through the valve stems 236, 238, 240, 242 without being formed in the cylindrical wall 66 of the sleeve 50.
Advantageously, the indicator assemblies 96, 396, 496, 596, and 696 of the present disclosure provide accurate readings of the position of the regulator 10 and a compact design by translating the axial displacement of the valve stem 54 to facilitate indicator movement external to the regulator 10.
Any of the components of the regulator 10 may be manufactured using Additive Manufacturing (AM) techniques or processes that build three-dimensional objects by adding successive layers of material on a material or receiving surface. In particular, the first, second, third, fourth, and fifth valve stems 236, 238, 240, 236, 242 may be manufactured using AM to achieve a staggered passage arrangement and even more complex passage arrangements. The AM techniques may be performed by any suitable machine or combination of machines. AM technology may generally involve or use computers, three-dimensional modeling software (e.g., computer aided design or CAD, software), machine equipment, and layered materials. Once the CAD model is generated, the machine equipment may read in data from the CAD file and stack or add successive layers of liquid, powder, sheet (for example) in layers in a stacked manner to create the three-dimensional object. The AM technology may include any one of several technologies or processes, such as, by way of example, a stereolithography ("SLA") process, a digital light processing ("DLP"), a fused deposition modeling ("FDM") process, a multi-nozzle modeling ("MJM") process, a selective laser sintering ("SLS") process, a selective laser melting ("SLM") process, an electron beam melting ("EBM") process, and an arc welding AM process. In some embodiments, the AM process may include a directed energy laser deposition process. Such directed energy laser deposition processes may be performed by a multi-axis computer numerical control ("CNC") machine having directed energy laser deposition capabilities. Other manufacturing techniques may be utilized to create a valve stem of an axial adjuster according to the present disclosure and are not limited to the techniques herein.
The drawings and description provided herein depict and describe preferred embodiments of an axial adjuster for purposes of illustration only. One skilled in the art will readily recognize from the foregoing discussion that alternative embodiments of the components illustrated herein may be employed without departing from the principles described herein. Accordingly, upon reading this disclosure, those skilled in the art will appreciate additional alternative structural and functional designs for the axial adjuster. Thus, while particular embodiments and applications have been illustrated and described, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are not limited to the precise construction and components disclosed herein. Various modifications, changes, and variations apparent to those skilled in the art may be made in the arrangement, operation, and details of the methods and components disclosed herein without departing from the spirit and scope defined in the appended claims.
Claims (21)
1. A regulator, comprising:
a valve body defining an inlet, an outlet, and a flow path connecting the inlet and the outlet;
a valve seat;
a control element movable relative to the valve body between a closed position in which the control element engages the valve seat and an open position in which the control element is spaced from the valve seat;
an actuator assembly operably coupled to the control element, the actuator assembly comprising:
a sleeve comprising a first plate and a second plate;
a valve stem operably coupled to the control element and extending through the sleeve, wherein the valve stem comprises an internal passage;
a first piston coupled to the valve stem and disposed within the sleeve and between the first plate and the second plate;
a second piston coupled to the valve stem and disposed within the sleeve and on an opposite side of the second plate from the first piston, wherein the first piston, the second piston, the first plate, and the second plate collectively define:
a first chamber disposed between the first plate and the first piston;
a second chamber disposed between the first piston and the second plate;
a third chamber disposed between the second plate and the second piston; and
a fourth chamber disposed opposite the third chamber relative to the second piston;
wherein the first and third chambers are in fluid communication and the second and fourth chambers are in fluid communication via a passageway of the valve stem, and wherein the flow path is located circumferentially relative to the actuator assembly.
2. The regulator of claim 1, wherein the passageway of the valve stem comprises a radial channel and a longitudinal channel, the radial channel in fluid communication with the second chamber and the longitudinal channel in fluid communication with the fourth chamber.
3. The regulator of claim 1 or 2, wherein the orifice of the first plate is sized to receive a first portion of the valve stem and the orifice of the second plate is sized to receive a second portion of the valve stem, the first portion of the valve stem having an outer diameter that is different than an outer diameter of the second portion of the valve stem.
4. The regulator of claim 1, further comprising a first passage extending through the valve body and in fluid communication with the first and third chambers and a second passage extending through the valve body and in fluid communication with the second and fourth chambers.
5. The regulator of claim 1, further comprising a second passageway extending partially through the valve stem, the second passageway being in fluid communication with the first chamber and in fluid communication with the third chamber.
6. The regulator of claim 1, further comprising a path extending at least partially between the sleeve and the valve body, the path fluidly connecting the first chamber and the third chamber.
7. The regulator of claim 6, wherein the pathway comprises a plurality of channels formed in the sleeve.
8. The regulator of claim 1, wherein the sleeve is retained within the valve body by an inlet fitting.
9. The regulator of claim 1, wherein the control element comprises a plurality of spokes extending between a central hub and an outer ring, the central hub defining a hub orifice sized to receive the valve stem, and the outer ring being arranged to engage the valve seat in the closed position.
10. The regulator of claim 1, further comprising a drain hole formed in the valve body and fluidly connecting the flow path to an exterior of the valve body.
11. The regulator of claim 1, wherein the sleeve comprises: a first sleeve portion and a second sleeve portion, the first sleeve portion comprising the first plate and the second sleeve portion comprising the second plate.
12. A regulator according to claim 1, wherein fluid pressure in the second and fourth chambers is operable to move the control element toward the closed position and fluid pressure in the first and third chambers is operable to move the control element toward the open position.
13. The regulator of claim 1, further comprising an indicator assembly at least partially disposed in the bore of the valve body along an indicator axis that is non-parallel to a longitudinal axis of the bore, wherein movement of the valve stem along the longitudinal axis causes movement of a lever of the indicator assembly along or about the indicator axis to indicate the position of the control element.
14. The adjuster as claimed in claim 13, wherein the indicator axis is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.
15. The regulator of claim 13 or 14, wherein the indicator assembly comprises an indicator coupled to the stem and extendable outside the valve body.
16. A fluid regulator, comprising:
a valve body having an inlet, an outlet, and a flow path connecting the inlet and the outlet;
an actuator assembly insertable into the valve body through one of the inlet or the outlet, and comprising:
a sleeve; and
two or more pistons defining a plurality of chambers within the sleeve and coupleable to a valve stem, wherein two or more chambers of the plurality of chambers are fluidly connected via a passage within the valve stem;
wherein the flow path connecting the inlet and the outlet is circumferentially positioned relative to the actuator assembly.
17. A fluid regulator of claim 16, wherein the sleeve includes a cylindrical wall, a first plate, and a second plate spaced from the first plate, the cylindrical wall defining a cavity, and each of the first and second plates being disposed in the cavity.
18. A fluid regulator of claim 17, wherein the plurality of chambers comprises:
a first chamber disposed between a first plate of the sleeve and a first piston;
a second chamber disposed between the first piston and the second plate;
a third chamber disposed between the second plate and a second piston; and
a fourth chamber disposed opposite the third chamber relative to the second piston;
wherein the first and third chambers are in fluid communication, and the second and fourth chambers are in fluid communication via a passageway of the valve stem.
19. A fluid regulator of claim 18, wherein the passageway of the valve stem comprises a radial channel and a longitudinal channel, the radial channel in fluid communication with the second chamber and the longitudinal channel in fluid communication with the fourth chamber.
20. A fluid regulator of claim 18 or 19, wherein the actuator assembly includes a control element and is configured to actuate the control element between an open position and a closed position in response to fluid pressure receivable in at least one of the first chamber, the second chamber, the third chamber, and the fourth chamber.
21. A fluid regulator of any one of claims 16-19, further comprising a pathway formed in the cylindrical wall of the sleeve.
Priority Applications (9)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CN201920021278.5U CN210128101U (en) | 2019-01-07 | 2019-01-07 | Regulator |
| PCT/CN2019/084464 WO2019206257A1 (en) | 2018-04-27 | 2019-04-26 | Indicator assembly |
| EP19793438.3A EP3784938A4 (en) | 2018-04-27 | 2019-04-26 | Indicator assembly |
| US17/050,757 US11725745B2 (en) | 2018-04-27 | 2019-04-26 | Regulator |
| CA3098512A CA3098512A1 (en) | 2018-04-27 | 2019-04-26 | Regulator |
| US17/050,798 US11828382B2 (en) | 2018-04-27 | 2019-04-26 | Indicator assembly |
| CA3098510A CA3098510A1 (en) | 2018-04-27 | 2019-04-26 | Indicator assembly |
| EP19793440.9A EP3784936B1 (en) | 2018-04-27 | 2019-04-26 | Regulator |
| PCT/CN2019/084475 WO2019206259A1 (en) | 2018-04-27 | 2019-04-26 | Regulator |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CN201920021278.5U CN210128101U (en) | 2019-01-07 | 2019-01-07 | Regulator |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CN210128101U true CN210128101U (en) | 2020-03-06 |
Family
ID=69660757
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CN201920021278.5U Active CN210128101U (en) | 2018-04-27 | 2019-01-07 | Regulator |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CN (1) | CN210128101U (en) |
-
2019
- 2019-01-07 CN CN201920021278.5U patent/CN210128101U/en active Active
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Inventor after: Zhou Biao Inventor after: Yan Wei Inventor after: Liu Dan Inventor after: Xiao Yawei Inventor after: Fan Guolei Inventor after: Qin Xiaojuan Inventor before: Zhou Biao Inventor before: Yan Wei Inventor before: Liu Dan Inventor before: Xiao Zhongyang Inventor before: Fan Guolei Inventor before: Qin Xiaojuan |