GB2565289A

GB2565289A - Valve tool and method

Info

Publication number: GB2565289A
Application number: GB1712633.5A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Lister Simon
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2017-08-07
Filing date: 2017-08-07
Publication date: 2019-02-13
Anticipated expiration: 2037-08-07
Also published as: GB2565289B; GB201712633D0

Abstract

Disclosed is a tool 501 suitable for use in freeing a seal of a valve with a drainage port, such as within a domestic heating system. The tool comprises a seal engaging element 506, and is adapted for fluid-tight engagement with a valve. The seal engaging element is operable to engage and free a stuck valve seal 104 upon fitting of the tool to the valve in use, such that fluid can resume flowing out through the drainage port. The seal engaging element may be adapted to be movable relative to a body of the tool, and may include an actuator coupled thereto. The tool may be adapted to be fitted into a housing of a valve in use, which may be achieved by replacing at least part of an existing valve actuator. The tool may comprise an outer screw thread for securing the tool into a valve housing, thereby achieving a fluid-tight seal between the tool and the valve housing. The seal engaging element may comprise a barb having at least one prong. Also disclosed is a method of using the tool of the present disclosure to engage and free a drainage port valve.

Description

VALVE TOOL AND METHOD

Technical Field

The present invention relates to a tool and method for freeing a seal of a valve, specifically a valve with a drainage port. More specifically, but not exclusively, certain embodiments of the invention relate to freeing seals which have become detached and lodged within domestic heating system drainage valves preventing the heating system from being drained.

Background

Drainage valves are well known. A drainage valve typically includes an inlet port and a drainage port. In use, fluid flows into the valve via the inlet port. When the valve is in a closed configuration fluid is prevented from flowing through the valve and out the drainage port. When the valve is in an open configuration fluid flows through the valve and out the drainage port. In a closed configuration, within the valve, a seal is held against the inlet port blocking the inlet port from the drainage port. To open the valve, a valve actuator is manipulated which withdraws the seal from the inlet port allowing fluid to drain via the inlet port and through the drainage port.

Such drainage valves are used in many settings. In closed-circuit domestic heating systems, for example, such a drainage valve (sometimes referred to as a “drain off” valve) is used to enable the system to be drained of heating fluid (e.g. water). Typically, the drainage valve is positioned at the lowest point of the system so that the entire system can be drained from that drainage valve. The use of a drainage valve enables fluid to be drained from the system in a convenient and controlled manner. Such drainage valves are also used in domestic and commercial hot water systems.

In certain circumstances, drainage valves may be used infrequently. As a result, they may malfunction, for example because of a seal becoming fixed, in-situ, blocking the inlet port. This may be particularly inconvenient if a system is only provided with a single drainage valve as the malfunctioning valve provides the only means to drain the system. Techniques exist to free a seal that is blocking an inlet port in this way. However, such techniques normally require parts of the valve to be opened to allow access to inner parts of the valve. When the seal is freed, fluid flows through the valve and out of the drainage port. However, fluid may also flow out through where access was gained to the inner parts of the valve. As a result, fluid may flow out through the valve in an uncontrolled manner as soon as the seal is freed. This is particularly undesirable if the valve is controlling the flow of fluid which is heated and/or under pressure and/or containing contaminants such as is the case in a domestic heating system.

Summary of the Invention

In accordance with a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a tool for freeing a seal of a valve with a drainage port. The tool comprises a seal engaging element. The tool is adapted to be fitted fluid-tight to the valve. The seal engaging element is configured such that, upon fitting of the tool to the valve, the seal engaging element is operable to engage and free the seal such that fluid can pass out through the drainage port.

Optionally, the seal engaging element is adapted to be moveable relative to a body of the tool to engage and free the seal.

Optionally, the tool includes an actuator coupled to the seal engaging element via which the seal engaging element is moved.

Optionally, the tool is adapted to be fitted into a valve housing of the valve.

Optionally, the tool is fitted into the valve housing by replacing at least part of a valve actuator of the valve.

Optionally, the tool is fitted into the valve housing by replacing at least part of a valve cap of the valve.

Optionally, the tool comprises an outer screw thread for securing the tool into the valve housing of the valve thereby providing a fluid-tight seal between the tool and valve housing.

Optionally, at least part of the tool is dimensioned to be received into the valve housing of the valve and provide a press-fit fluid-tight seal securing the tool into the valve housing.

Optionally, the tool comprises a tool valve cap corresponding to the valve cap part of the valve.

Optionally, the actuator passes through an opening in the tool valve cap and the actuator includes an O-ring allowing the actuator to move in a fluid-tight manner with respect to the tool valve cap.

Optionally, the seal engaging element comprises a barb with at least one prong.

Optionally, the seal engaging element comprises a screw.

Optionally, at least an outer body of the tool is made from one of brass, steel or plastic.

Optionally, the tool is for a domestic heating system drainage valve.

In accordance with a second aspect of the invention, there is provided amethod of freeing a seal of a valve with a drainage port. The method comprises fitting a tool according to the first aspect of the invention to the valve, and operating a seal engaging element of the tool to engage and free the seal such that fluid can pass into the drainage port of the valve.

In accordance with certain embodiments of the invention, a tool is provided which enables a seal to be freed which is preventing fluid from flowing out from a drainage port of a drainage valve. The tool is provided with a seal engaging element which engages with and frees the seal when the tool is fitted to the valve. Unlike conventional techniques for freeing such seals, the tool is fitted, fluid-tight, to the valve itself such that when the seal is freed, fluid passes out substantially only through the drainage port. In this way, fluid is drained through the valve in a controlled manner, even immediately after the seal has been freed.

Various features and aspects of the invention are defined in the claims.

Brief Description of the Drawings

Embodiments of the present invention will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings where like parts are provided with corresponding reference numerals and in which:

Figures 1 and 2 provide a schematic diagrams of a conventional drainage valve;

Figure 3 provides a schematic diagram depicting a conventional drainage valve in which a seal has become detached and is blocking an inlet port of the valve;

Figure 4 provides a schematic diagram depicting a manual technique for freeing a seal;

Figures 5 and 6 provide schematic diagrams of a tool in accordance with certain embodiments of the invention;

Figures 7a, 7b and 7c provide schematic diagrams depicting an example of the tool shown in Figures 5 and 6, in use, and

Figures 8a, 8b, 8c, 8d, 8e, and 8f provide schematic diagrams depicting seal engaging element configurations in accordance with certain embodiments of the invention.

Detailed Description

Figure 1 provides a schematic diagram of a conventional drainage valve 101 which comprises a housing 102 and an outlet drainage port 103.

The valve 101 includes a seal 104 connected to a valve actuator 105 which is arranged to move the seal 104 within the valve housing 102 such that it can be used to open or close an inlet port 106 of the valve 101.

The seal 104 is mounted on a mounting ring 107 which is connected to the valve actuator 105 via a coupling 108. The seal 104 is typically a rubber or plastic washer.

The valve housing 102 includes an opening into which the valve actuator 105 is mounted and held in position by a valve cap 109. The valve cap 109 is a fluid-tight fitting within the valve housing 102. The valve cap 109 includes an opening 110 through which part of the valve actuator 105 passes so that the valve actuator 105 can be manipulated from outside the valve 101. This opening 110 is sealed by an Ci-ring 111 connected to the part of the valve actuator 105 that passes through the valve cap 109.

The inside of the valve housing 102 includes along parts of its inner surface a screw thread (not shown in Figure 1). The valve actuator 105 includes a portion 112 with a threaded outer surface (not shown in Figure 1) which engages with the screw thread on the inner surface of the valve housing 102. Accordingly, when the outer end of the valve actuator 105 is rotated the valve actuator 105, and thus the seal 104, is moved within the valve housing.

Figure 1 shows the valve 101 in a closed configuration in which the valve actuator 105 has been rotated such that the seal 104 is held against the inlet port 106 thereby closing the valve 101.

Figure 2 provides a schematic diagram of the conventional drainage valve 101 shown in Figure 1 except that the valve 101 is shown in an open configuration in which the valve actuator 105 has been rotated such that the seal 104 has been withdrawn from the inlet port 106 thereby opening the valve 101. For clarity, reference numerals are omitted from Figure 2, but it will be understood that the parts shown correspond to those in Figure 1. As can be seen from the arrow shown in Figure 2, fluid can flow from the inlet port 106 out through the drainage port 103.

The type of valve described with reference to Figures 1 and 2 is commonly used in heating systems, such as domestic heating systems, comprising several “radiators”. Such valve are also used in domestic hot water systems.

In such domestic heating systems, the radiators are connected to a closed water circuit. The water in the closed water circuit is heated by a boiler unit. The heat is transferred through the system, via the closed water circuit. From time to time, such a system needs to be drained to replace the water in the closed circuit with fresh water.

For this reason, a drainage valve, such as that shown in Figures 1 and 2 is typically installed at a drainage position within the system (usually at the system’s lowest point). The valve’s inlet port is connected to the water circuit. When the system needs to be drained, the valve actuator is operated to open the valve allowing water to drain via the inlet port through the drainage port.

The rate at which water is drained from the system can be controlled via the valve actuator. Further, the drainage valve is typically positioned so that a water collection means, such as a bucket, can be readily positioned underneath the drainage port to collect the drained water. Alternatively, a hose can be fitted to the drainage port to direct the drained water. The drainage valve allows this drainage operation to be performed in a controlled manner. This is particularly desirable because the water in the heating system might typically be under pressure (e.g. 1.5 to 2 bar) and be heated. Further, the water itself may contain contaminants making it particularly desirable that it not spill on any surfaces such as carpets.

Figure 3 depicts a common problem with drainage valves of the type discussed with reference to Figures 1 and 2 which embodiments of the invention address.

If a drainage valve has been in the closed position for a long period of time and/or if heat was applied to the inlet port when the valve was being installed (e.g. during soldering) it is common that when operating the valve actuator, as the valve actuator is withdrawn away from the inlet port, the seal becomes detached from the mounting ring of the valve actuator as the seal has become fixed (i.e. stuck) in place. This means that the valve cannot be opened and, for example, the heating system cannot readily be drained. Figure 3 provides a schematic diagram depicting this situation where the seal 104 has become detached from the mounting ring of the actuator partially blocking the inlet port 106. Water to be drained may escape through a centre hole of the seal, if the seal is of an O-ring washer type (e.g. a rubber washer), but the rate at which this water drains may be greatly diminished compared to if the inlet port 106 was not blocked.

Using conventional techniques, to solve this problem, the seal must be manually removed. Such a manual technique is depicted in Figure 4.

As shown in Figure 4, to free the seal 104, it is manually manipulated by a suitable tool, such as a screwdriver 401. However, as shown in Figure 4, to gain access to the seal 104 so that it can be manually manipulated with a tool, the valve cap 109 and valve actuator 105 must normally be removed from the valve housing 102. As a result, as soon as the seal 104 becomes free, water from the water circuit exits the valve housing 102 through the drainage port 103 but also, uncontrolled, through the open end of the valve from which the valve cap 105 and valve actuator 105 have been removed. As a result, water in the water circuit (which as explained above is typically under pressure, may be hot and may be contaminated) may then spill over the nearby area and may also spray on to the person operating the tool 401.

Figure 5 provides a cross-sectional schematic diagram of a tool 501 arranged in accordance with certain embodiments of the invention. The tool 501 is operable to free drainage valve seals which have become dislodged from the valve actuator and stuck in place whilst ensuring that once the seal has been freed, and the inlet port of the drainage valve unblocked, fluid can pass in a controlled manner through the inlet port and out of the drainage port of the valve.

The tool 501 comprises a valve cap 502 and actuator 503. The valve cap 502 and the actuator 503 are arranged in a manner similar to the valve cap and valve actuator of the conventional drainage valve described with reference to Figures 1 and 2.

The actuator 503 includes an O-ring 504 which provides a fluid-tight seal but allows the actuator 503 to move within a through hole 505 within the valve cap 502. Typically, the tool is adapted to be fitted into a valve housing of the valve. In the embodiment shown in Figure 5, the valve cap 502 and the actuator 503 of the tool are adapted so that they can replace the valve cap and valve actuator of a conventional drainage valve. As will be understood, “fluid-tight” means generally that under normal operating conditions (e.g. pressures and temperatures etc), the system fluid (e.g. heating system water) is prevented from passing. A seal engaging element 506, such as a barb, is attached at the end of the actuator 503. At the opposite end of the actuator 503, a square tapered end 507 is provided. The square tapered end 507 allows a leverage tool, such as a spanner, to be used to turn the actuator.

Figure 6 provides a schematic diagram providing an isometric view of the tool 501.

In the embodiment depicted in Figures 5 and 6, an outer edge of the valve cap 502 and outer edge of a portion 508 of the seal-engaging-element-end of the actuator 502 are provided with screw threads 509a, 509b to engage with a complimentary screw thread on an inner surface of the valve housing into which the tool 501 is fitted which thereby provides a fluid-tight seal between the tool and the valve housing.

In other embodiments, the outside of the valve cap is dimensioned to provide a press fit with the inner surface of the valve housing into which the tool is fitted thereby providing a press-fit fluid-tight seal.

Figures 7a, 7b and 7c provide schematic diagrams depicting an example of the tool 501, described with reference to Figures 5 and 6, in use.

Initially, in keeping with conventional methods, the valve cap and valve actuator are removed. The tool 501 is then fitted into the valve housing. This is achieved by rotating the valve cap and actuator so that they are drawn into the valve housing by the respective screw threads. The valve cap of the tool 501 is tightened against the edge of the valve housing ensuring a fluid-tight seal.

In embodiments in which the valve cap is dimensioned to provide a press fit with the inner surface of the valve housing, it is pressed into place.

The actuator is then rotated with respect to the valve in a direction that draws the actuator into the valve housing, again by virtue of the screw threads, and the seal engaging element 506 of the tool 501 is driven towards the seal 104. This is shown in Figure 7a.

As shown in Figure 7a, the actuator of the tool 501 continues to be turned, as shown in Figure 7b, such that the seal engaging element penetrates, or otherwise engages the seal 104. In certain scenarios, part of the seal engaging element (e.g. the bard shown in Figure 5) may pass through a centre hole of the seal.

The direction of rotation of the actuator is then reversed so that the actuator is drawn away from the inlet port 106. As the seal has been engaged by the seal engaging element, this action frees the seal from the inlet port 106 and allows water to drain via the inlet port through the drainage port. The seal engaging element 506 is thus moveable relative to a body of the tool to engage and free the seal.

The provision of the valve cap 502 ensures that the water is drained through the drainage port and not out of the end of the valve housing as is the case with conventional manual techniques.

The valve cap 502 and the actuator 503 of the tool 501 can be made from any suitable material. Such materials include brass, steel, suitable rubber or suitable plastic. The seal engaging element 506 is made from any suitable material such as steel or brass.

The seal engaging element 506 shown in Figures 5, 6 and 7 is configured as a barb with two prongs. In other embodiments, the seal engaging element can take alternative configurations.

Typically, the seal engaging element can be configured so that it can substantially pass through a centre hole (of present) of the seal as it is moved in the direction towards the inlet port, but grip the seal as it is then moved away from the inlet port (i.e. as is the case with the barb shown in Figures 7a, 7b and 7c).

Figures 8a, 8b, 8c, 8d, 8e and 8f provide schematic diagrams depicting seal engaging element configurations in accordance with certain embodiments of the invention.

Figure 8a depicts a two-pronged barb seal engaging element configuration as described above; Figure 8b depicts a single-pronged barb seal engaging element configuration; Figure 8c depicts a screw-type seal engaging element configuration, and Figure 8d depicts a hook-type seal engaging configuration.

Figure 8e depicts a ball-ended seal engaging element. The ball-ended seal engaging element includes a spherical shaped portion 801 at a distal end of the seal engaging element. In use, the spherical shaped portion engages the seal by being forced through a centre hole of the seal. The spherical shaped portion is dimensioned to have a diameter larger than the centre hole of the seal so that when the ball-ended seal engaging element is retracted from the inlet port, the seal is freed.

Figure 8f depicts a seal engaging element comprising a series of seal-penetrating spikes 802 mounted on an end plate. In use, the seal-penetrating spikes are driven into the seal to be freed. The seal-penetrating spikes grip the seal so that when the seal engaging element is retracted from the inlet port, the seal is freed.

The seal engaging elements can be made from any suitable material, for example steel or brass.

In certain embodiments intended for use with certain metal seals, the seal engaging element may comprise a magnet.

Various modifications and adaptations of the embodiments of the invention described above are envisaged and fall within the scope of the invention. Embodiments of the invention so far have been described in terms of a tool for use with a drainage valve of a domestic heating system. However, it will be understood that seal-freeing tools in accordance with embodiments of the invention can be provided for use in other settings, such as domestic hot water systems, larger scale commercial heating systems and larger scale hot water systems. Embodiments of the invention can be used to free valves from suitable drainage/drain off valves deployed in oil and gas applications, suitable valves used in the automotive and aerospace industry, suitable valves used within medical devices and so on.

Claims

1. A tool for freeing a seal of a valve with a drainage port, the tool comprising a seal engaging element, the tool adapted to be fitted fluid-tight to the valve, wherein said seal engaging element is configured such that, upon fitting of the tool to the valve, the seal engaging element is operable to engage and free the seal such that fluid can pass out through the drainage port.

2. A tool according to claim 1, wherein the seal engaging element is adapted to be moveable relative to a body of the tool to engage and free the seal.

3. A tool according to claim 2, wherein the tool includes an actuator coupled to the seal engaging element via which the seal engaging element is moved.

4. A tool according to any previous claim, wherein the tool is adapted to be fitted into a valve housing of the valve.

5. A tool according to claim 4, wherein the tool is fitted into the valve housing by replacing at least part of a valve actuator of the valve.

6. A tool according to claim 5, wherein the tool is fitted into the valve housing by replacing at least part of a valve cap of the valve.

7. A tool according to claim 5, wherein the tool comprises an outer screw thread for securing the tool into the valve housing of the valve thereby providing a fluid-tight seal between the tool and valve housing.

8. A tool according to claim 5, wherein at least part of the tool is dimensioned to be received into the valve housing of the valve and provide a press-fit fluid-tight seal securing the tool into the valve housing.

9. A tool according to claim 6, wherein the tool comprises a tool valve cap corresponding to the valve cap part of the valve.

10. A tool according to claim 9, wherein the actuator passes through an opening in the tool valve cap and the actuator includes an O-ring allowing the actuator to move in a fluid-tight manner with respect to the tool valve cap.

11. A tool according to any previous claim, wherein the seal engaging element comprises a barb with at least one prong.

12. A tool according to any previous claim, wherein the seal engaging element comprises a screw.

13. A tool according to any previous claim, wherein at least an outer body of the tool is made from one of brass, steel or plastic.

14. A tool according to any previous claim, wherein the tool is for a domestic heating system drainage valve.

15. A method of freeing a seal of a valve with a drainage port, the method comprising: fitting a tool according to claim 1 to the valve, and operating a seal engaging element of the tool to engage and free the seal such that fluid can pass into the drainage port of the valve.

16. A tool and method substantially as hereinbefore described with reference to the Figures 5 to 8f.