GB1375709A - - Google Patents

Abstract

1375709 Ion-exchange L DESSART 16 Nov 1971 [16 Nov 1970] 53213/71 Heading BIJ [Also in Division F2] A water softener of the ion-exchange resin type includes a multidirectional valve actuable by two electric valves which are controllable by a programming device, the multidirectional valve having a hydraulic ram and co-operating cylinder in which the ram is displaceable by fluid pressure controllable by the two electric valves, the ram being rigid with a rod which is slidable within a tubular passage and a plurality of pistons which are in sealing contact with the walls of the passage, the walls of the passage being provided with orifices the arrangement being such that different orifices are in communication with one another depending on the position of the ram in the cylinder so that when one electric valve is in an operative position the multi-directional valve is set for a water softening phase in which water to be softened passing through it can circulate through the bed of ionexchange resin, and when the other electric valve is in an operative position the multidirectional valve is set for a regenerating phase so that a solution for regenerating the resin passing through it can pass through the bed of resin. As shown, the valve comprises an operating cylinder 18 containing a ram 19 driving a shaft 22 which can reciprocate within a cylindrical body made up of parts 24 to 30 inclusive fitted or screwed together. Shaft 22 bears four pistons 35, 36, 37, 38. In the valve position shown, untreated water enters at E in section 28 and leaves via section 29; softened water enters in part 26 and leaves at A in section 27. In the other position (shown dotted) E and A are in connection so that the water-softener is by-passed by incoming water; regenerant brine enters the valve at 39 and leaves at 26, flows through the exhausted ionexchanger and back into the valve at 29, leaving at 30. Supply of water to the operating cylinders is controlled by two further valves which are themselves under the control of the programming devices. The various parts of the valve may be injection moulded from a plastic and screwed or glued together.