GB2616460A - Diaphragm and diaphragm valve - Google Patents
Diaphragm and diaphragm valve Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- GB2616460A GB2616460A GB2203318.7A GB202203318A GB2616460A GB 2616460 A GB2616460 A GB 2616460A GB 202203318 A GB202203318 A GB 202203318A GB 2616460 A GB2616460 A GB 2616460A
- Authority
- GB
- United Kingdom
- Prior art keywords
- diaphragm
- axis
- fluid path
- body portion
- plane
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Pending
Links
- 239000012530 fluid Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 66
- 230000002093 peripheral effect Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 33
- 230000004888 barrier function Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 27
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 12
- 238000007906 compression Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 11
- 230000006835 compression Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 7
- 238000009434 installation Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 5
- 230000003068 static effect Effects 0.000 claims description 11
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 claims description 10
- 229910001220 stainless steel Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 8
- 239000010935 stainless steel Substances 0.000 claims description 8
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 claims description 7
- 239000011324 bead Substances 0.000 claims description 6
- 238000003754 machining Methods 0.000 claims description 6
- 239000000853 adhesive Substances 0.000 claims description 4
- 230000001070 adhesive effect Effects 0.000 claims description 4
- 230000000903 blocking effect Effects 0.000 claims description 4
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 claims description 4
- 238000000465 moulding Methods 0.000 claims description 2
- 239000007787 solid Substances 0.000 claims description 2
- 230000001419 dependent effect Effects 0.000 claims 2
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 2
- 229920001296 polysiloxane Polymers 0.000 description 2
- 238000011144 upstream manufacturing Methods 0.000 description 1
- 229960005486 vaccine Drugs 0.000 description 1
- 239000011800 void material Substances 0.000 description 1
Classifications
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16K—VALVES; TAPS; COCKS; ACTUATING-FLOATS; DEVICES FOR VENTING OR AERATING
- F16K7/00—Diaphragm valves or cut-off apparatus, e.g. with a member deformed, but not moved bodily, to close the passage ; Pinch valves
- F16K7/12—Diaphragm valves or cut-off apparatus, e.g. with a member deformed, but not moved bodily, to close the passage ; Pinch valves with flat, dished, or bowl-shaped diaphragm
- F16K7/14—Diaphragm valves or cut-off apparatus, e.g. with a member deformed, but not moved bodily, to close the passage ; Pinch valves with flat, dished, or bowl-shaped diaphragm arranged to be deformed against a flat seat
- F16K7/16—Diaphragm valves or cut-off apparatus, e.g. with a member deformed, but not moved bodily, to close the passage ; Pinch valves with flat, dished, or bowl-shaped diaphragm arranged to be deformed against a flat seat the diaphragm being mechanically actuated, e.g. by screw-spindle or cam
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16K—VALVES; TAPS; COCKS; ACTUATING-FLOATS; DEVICES FOR VENTING OR AERATING
- F16K7/00—Diaphragm valves or cut-off apparatus, e.g. with a member deformed, but not moved bodily, to close the passage ; Pinch valves
- F16K7/12—Diaphragm valves or cut-off apparatus, e.g. with a member deformed, but not moved bodily, to close the passage ; Pinch valves with flat, dished, or bowl-shaped diaphragm
- F16K7/126—Diaphragm valves or cut-off apparatus, e.g. with a member deformed, but not moved bodily, to close the passage ; Pinch valves with flat, dished, or bowl-shaped diaphragm the seat being formed on a rib perpendicular to the fluid line
Abstract
Diaphragm 7 for a diaphragm valve 1, comprising a sheet 39 of a resiliently deformable material having opposing first and second faces 63, 65, a central portion 43 of the sheet being movable to open and close a fluid path 37, a peripheral portion 41 of the sheet being arranged to be compressed to hold the diaphragm in place, the diaphragm including integral rigid stops 79 in the peripheral portion to limit compression of the peripheral portion. Also claimed is a body portion of a diaphragm valve comprising a housing at least partially defining a fluid path along a first axis 29, an outer face 17 of the housing having a first planar portion extending in a first plane, wherein the first plane extends parallel to the first axis, and is spaced from the first axis along a second axis 33 perpendicular to the first, the first plane being rotated around a third axis 45 parallel to the first axis and in the first plane, so the first plane forms a predefined angle with a second plane formed by the first and third axes, the third axis perpendicular to the first and second, the predefined angle defining an installation angle for the body portion. A barrier or weir 31 may extend across the fluid path to partially block it.
Description
DIAPHRAGM AND DIAPHRAGM VALVE
The present invention relates to a diaphragm for a diaphragm valve, a body portion of a diaphragm valve, diaphragm valves including the diaphragm and/or body portion, a method of manufacturing the body portion, and a method of installing the diaphragm valve. In particular, but not exclusively, the present invention relates to diaphragm valves and components of diaphragm valves for use in hygienic or aseptic environments.
Diaphragm valves are used to control the flow of fluids in many settings. Typically, a diaphragm valve comprises three main components; a base, a top and a diaphragm sandwiched between the base and top. A fluid path is defined in the base between an inlet and an outlet and a weir, or barrier, extends across the path.
IS in an assembled diaphragm valve, an outer or peripheral portion of the diaphragm is compressed between the top and base to form a static seal. The central part of the diaphragm can move towards the barrier, to form a dynamic seal and close the fluid path or move away from the barrier, to open the fluid path. Actuation means is provided as part of the valve to control the movement of the central part of the diaphragm.
Typically the top part and base are joined together by manually tightened securing means, such as bolts. Over tightening of the securing means can lead to over-compression of the diaphragm, which can damage the diaphragm and reduce the life of the diaphragm, meaning it requires earlier replacement.
US 6,155,535 discloses a diaphragm-sealed valve having stops in the form of mechanical means placed between a top and bottom plate to control the assembled thickness and/or the amount of compression applied to the diaphragm which is placed between the top and bottom plate when the diaphragm-sealed valve is assembled together. The stops may be incorporated in one of the plates or may be provided as a separate component When diaphragm valves are used in hygienic/aseptic environments, such as pharmaceutical or vaccine production, the body of a diaphragm valve must be installed such that the top of the barrier is arranged at an angle (the drainage angle). Combined with a tilt in the direction of the fluid flow, this ensures that all fluids drain from the valve and there is no collection of fluid in the valve.
Typically, the body of a diaphragm valve will include a mark or other indica that assists a user installing the valve at the correct angle. For example, the mark may include a line that when vertical, indicates the valve is at the correct angle.
There is a need to prevent over compression of diaphragms in diaphragm valves in a simple and easy to implement manner.
Independently, there is also a need to make the installation of diaphragm valves at the correct drainage angle reliable and repeatable, and easy to do.
According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a diaphragm for a diaphragm valve, the diaphragm comprising: a sheet of a resiliently deformable material having a first face, an opposing second face, and a thickness between the first face and the second face, wherein a central portion of the sheet is arranged to be movable in a direction substantially parallel to the thickness such that the first face forms a dynamic seal that can be opened and closed to open and close a fluid path, wherein a peripheral portion of the sheet is arranged to be compressed to hold the diaphragm in place and form a static seal around the fluid path, and wherein the diaphragm includes one or more stops within in the peripheral portion of the sheet, the stops formed of a rigid material and extending parallel to the thickness of the diaphragm to limit compression of the peripheral portion of the sheet, the stops being an integral part of the diaphragm.
By incorporating the stops in the diaphragm, over-compression in any valve can be prevented without modifications to the body of the valve. Furthermore, the diaphragm can be retrofitted to existing valves without requiring any modifications to the body of the valve. This is particularly useful as diaphragms are replaced on a regular basis without replacing the other parts of the valve.
The one or more stops may be made an integral part of the diaphragm by mold overmolding, or fixing with adhesive.
The peripheral portion may include one or more passages through the sheet between the first face and the second face, the passages arranged to receive fixing means for assembling a body of a diaphragm valve including the diaphragm. Each passage may include a stop formed as a lining of the passage, the stop having a central opening arranged to receive the fixing means.
The height of the stops between the first face and second face may be less than the thickness of the sheet.
The stops may not extend beyond the first face and the second face in the direction of the thickness.
The diaphragm may include an annular bead formed on the first face, in the peripheral portion of the diaphragm.
The annular bead may be provided between the one or more passages and the central portion.
The stops may be made of metal. The stops may be stainless steel.
The stops may be provided at the same radial distance from the centre of the sheet, and at even angular spacing around the sheet.
The diaphragm may comprise four stops.
According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a diaphragm valve comprising: a body formed of a first body portion comprising a first housing, and a second body portion comprising a second housing, the first and second body portions joinable to define the fluid path; apertures in the body for forming an inlet into the fluid path and an outlet from the fluid path; a barrier extending across the fluid path and partially blocking the fluid path; and a diaphragm according to the first aspect, the diaphragm secured between the first and second body portions, wherein the peripheral portion of the sheet of the diaphragm forms a static seal between the first body portion and the second body portion, and wherein the central portion is moveable towards and away from the barrier to close or open the fluid path, the diaphragm valve further comprising actuator mcans for moving the central portion of the diaphragm.
According to a third aspect of the invention, there is provided a body portion of a diaphragm valve comprising: a housing at least partially defining a fluid path along a first axis, an outer face of the housing having a first planar portion extending in a first plane, wherein the first plane extends in a direction parallel to the first axis, and is spaced from the first axis along a second axis perpendicular to the first axis; wherein the first plane is rotated around a further axis parallel to the first axis and in the first plane, such that the first plane forms a predefined angle with a second plane formed by the first axis and a third axis, the third axis perpendicular to the first axis and the second axis; and wherein the predefined angle is arranged to define an installation angle for the body portion.
The first planar portion acts as a reference for positioning of the diaphragm valve.
When the first planar portion is flat, the diaphragm valve is at the correct angle.
The predefined angle may be at least 25 degrees, Preferably the predefined angle is 28 degrees The body portion may further comprise a barrier extending across the fluid path, the barrier arranged to partially block the fluid path.
The housing may include an inlet into the fluid path and an outlet from the fluid path. 25 The outer face of the housing may have a second planar portion extending in a third plane. The third plane extends in a direction parallel to the first axis, and may be spaced from the first axis along the second axis, in an opposite direction to the first plane. The third plane may be rotated around a second further axis parallel to the first axis and further axis, and in the third plane, such that the third plane forms a second predefined angle with the second plane. The magnitude of the second predefined angle may be the same as the first predefined angle, in an opposite rotational direction to the first predefined angle.
The body portion may be made of metal. The body portion may be stainless steel.
According to a fourth aspect of the invention, there is provided a diaphragm valve comprising a body having a first body portion according to the third aspect; a second body portion joinable to the first body portion to form the fluid path; apertures in the body for forming an inlet into the fluid path and an outlet from the fluid path; a barrier extending across the fluid path and partially blocking the fluid path; a diaphragm fixed between the first and second body portions, wherein a peripheral portion of the diaphragm forms a static seal between the first body portion and the second body portion, and wherein a central portion of the diaphragm is moveable towards and away from the barrier to close or open the fluid path; and actuator means for moving the central portion of the diaphragm.
The diaphragm may be the diaphragm of the first aspect.
According to a fifth aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of installing the diaphragm valve according to the fourth aspect, the method comprising: installing the valve such that the first planar portion is parallel to a ground surface.
According to a sixth aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of manufacturing the body portion of the third aspect from metal, optionally stainless steel, the method comprising: providing a solid metal ingot substantially the size of the body portion; machining the bar to form at least part of the fluid passage; and machining the bar to form the first planar portion.
Making the body portion by machining is simple and easy to complete.
It will be appreciated that, unless mutually exclusive, any feature discussed with reference to a particular aspect may be applied to any other aspect.
Embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure I schematically illustrates a diaphragm valve in exploded view; Figures 2A to 2C schematically illustrate the diaphragm of the diaphragm valve of Figure 1; and Figures 3A to 3C shows the base portion of the diaphragm of Figure 1.
Figure 1 illustrates a diaphragm valve 1 in exploded view. The diaphragm valve 1 is made of three separate components; a base 3 (or first body portion), a top 5 (or bonnet or second body portion) and a diaphragm 7 secured between the base 3 and top 5. The base 3 and top 5 combine to form a body of the valve 1 and define a fluid flow path 37 (shown by arrows) which can be opened and closed by the diaphragm 7.
In the example, the base 3 is formed by a housing 9 defining a cavity I I. The housing 15 has a bottom wall 13 and a peripheral sidewall 15 extending around the cavity 11.
The top 17 of the sidewall 15 is substantially planar defining a ledge that acts as a seat for the diaphragm 7, and the top 19 of the cavity 11 is open.
A first aperture 21 extends through the sidewall 15, with a first conduit 23 extending from the first aperture 21 outside the housing 9. A second aperture 25 (not shown in Figure 1, but shown in Figure 3A) is also extends through the sidewall 15 at a position diametrically opposed to the first aperture 21. As with the first aperture 21, a second conduit 27 extends from the second aperture 25 outside the housing 9.
The apertures 21, 25 form an inlet and an outlet into and from the fluid path 37. The inlet and outlet define a fluid flow direction, forming a first axis 29 of the diaphragm valve. The conduits 23, 27 allow for connection of the diaphragm valve 1 to upstream and downstream pipes (not shown). in the example shown and discussed below a first aperture 21 forms the inlet and the second aperture 25 the outlet, but fluid may flow in either direction.
Within the cavity 11, a barrier or weir 31 is formed extending up from the bottom wall 13 and between opposite sides of the peripheral sidewall 15. The barrier 31 extends perpendicular to the first axis 29, and perpendicular to the ledge 17 on top of the sidewall 15. The barrier 31 extends along a second axis 33 perpendicular to the first axis 29. The top 35 of the barrier 31 extends above the apertures 21, 25 forming the inlet and the outlet but below the ledge 17 on top of the sidewall 15.
The fluid flow path 37 (shown by arrows in Figure 1) is defined through the cavity 11, when the diaphragm valve 1 is in use. Fluid enters through the inlet 21, passes over the barrier 31 and out through the outlet 25.
The diaphragm 7 closes the top 19 of the cavity 11. As will be discussed in more detail below, the diaphragm 7 comprises a sheet 39 of resiliently deformable material. A peripheral portion 41 of the diaphragm 7 sits on the ledge 17 on top of the sidewall 15, and a central portion 43 extends across the cavity 11.
In use, the central portion 43 can move upward and downward along a third axis 45, perpendicular to the first axis 29 and second axis 33.When the central portion 43 is at its lowest position, it rests on the top 35 of the barrier 31 forming a seal along the width of the cavity 11. This prevents fluid passing along the fluid path 39 from the inlet 21 to the outlet 25, closing the valve 1. When the central portion 43 is moved upward, fluid is free to pass from the inlet 21 to the outlet 25 and the valve 1 is opened. Since the seal can be opened and closed, it is considered a dynamic seal.
in one example, the valve I may simply be open or closed. In another example,the valve 1 may control a variable flow rate of fluid depending on the spacing of the central portion 43 of the diaphragm 7 from the barrier 31, The top 5 of the diaphragm valve 1 is formed by a second housing 47. This has a ledge 49 formed on its underside, which sits on top of the peripheral portion 41 of the diaphragm 7 and a central portion 51 extending upward (along the third axis 45) defining a volume (not shown) that the central portion 43 of the diaphragm 7 moves into when the valve 1 is open Actuator means 55 are also provided as part of the top 5 of the valve 1 for moving the central portion 43 of the diaphragm 7. In the example shown, the actuator means 55 includes a handle 57 on top of the housing 47, and a connector rod (not shown) extending from the handle 57 to the diaphragm 7. Turning the handle 57 clockwise and counter-clockwise moves the central portion 43 of the diaphragm 7.
The valve 1 is assembled along the third axis 45. The assembled valve 1 is held together be fixing means such as bolts (not shown) that pass from the top 5, through holes 77a-in the diaphragm 7 into blind holes 91a-d (see Figure 3A) in the base 3. In the example shown, four bolts arranged at the corners of the body 3, 5 of the valve 1.
It will be appreciated that the top 5 may include a removable cover to allow access to tighten the bolts.
Tightening of the bolts compresses the peripheral portion 41 of the diaphragm 7 between the ledge 49 of the top part 5 and the top 17 of the s dewall 15 to form a static seal so that no fluid can escape the cavity 11 Figures 2A to 2C show a diaphragm 7 according to an embodiment of the invention, in more detail. Figure 2A shows the diaphragm 7 in perspective view. Figure 2B shows a cross-sectional view through the central portion 43 of the diaphragm 7, and Figure 2C shows a cross-sectional view through the peripheral portion 41.
As discussed above, the diaphragm 7 is formed of a sheet 39 having a first side or face 63 and an opposing second side or face 65. A thickness 67 of the diaphragm 7 is formed between the first face 63 and second face 65. in the assembled valve, the first side 63 is arranged facing downwards so that it engages the barrier 31 to form the dynamic seal in the central portion 43. In the peripheral portion 41, the first side 63 sits on the ledge 17 on top of the sidewall 15. The material of the diaphragm 7 is deformable, such that the central portion 43 can be moved up and down, whilst the peripheral portion 41 is held in place.
On the second side 65 of the diaphragm 7, a threaded connector 71 is formed in the central portion 43. This allows for connection of the diaphragm 7 to the connector rod of the actuator means 55 to enable movement of the central portion 43. The connector 71 is formed in a projection 73 extending from the second side 65 of the diaphragm 7 at the very centre of the diaphragm 7, along the third axis 45 (in the assembled diaphragm 7). The projection 73 is of the same material as the diaphragm 7.
A tab 75 or projection is formed extending from one peripheral edge of the diaphragm 7 to allow a user to easily pick up the diaphragm 7.
As shown in Figures 2A and 2C, through-passages 77a-d are formed in the corners of the diaphragm 7, extending through the thickness 67 of the peripheral portion 41 from the first side 63 to the second side 65. In the assembled valve 1, the bolts or other fixing means passes through the passages 77a-d.
To prevent over-compression of the diaphragm 7, each of the though passages 77a-d includes a stop 79a-d. These are best shown in Figure 2C. The stops 79a-d are arranged as tubular members within the passages 77a-d, having a central channel 81a-d, which still allows for passage of the bolt. Therefore the stops can be considered to form a lining of the passage 77a-d for the bolts.
In the uncompressed state of the diaphragm 7, as shown in Figure 2C, a first end 83a-d of the stops 79a-d is located within the passage 77a-d in the diaphragm 7, such that they are recessed into the first face 63 of the diaphragm 7 and a second end 85a-d of the stop 79a-d is flush with the second face 65. Therefore, the height of the stops 79a-d in the direction of the third axis 45 is less than the thickness 67 of the diaphragm 7 in the same direction (when the diaphragm 7 is uncompressed).
The stops 79a-d are formed of a material that is rigid and thus less compressible than the material of the diaphragm 7. In one example, the stops 79a-d may be incompressible under the typical pressures applied when tightening the bolts manually. For example, the diaphragm may be rubber or silicone, and the stops 79a-d may be metal such as stainless steel.
The stops 79a-d are integrally formed with the diaphragm 7, such that they are fixedly joined to or formed as part of the diaphragm 7. Thus the diaphragm 7, including the stops 79a-& is formed as a single unitary part. The connector 71 is formed in a joined to the diaphragm 7 in a similar manner.
In one example, the diaphragm 7 may be molded (or over-molded) around the stops 79a-d. Alternatively, the stops 79a-d may be fixed into the diaphragm 7 by adhesive. Engaging projections on the diaphragm 7 and/or stops 79a-d may also be used in addition to or instead of molding or adhesive.
In use, when the diaphragm valve 1 is assembled, tightening of the bolts causes compression of the peripheral portion 41 of the diaphragm 7. As the diaphragm 7 is compressed, the thickness 67 is reduced until it is the same as the height as the stops 79a-d. The stops 79a-d then prevent further compression.
To assist in forming the static seal at the peripheral portion 41 of the diaphragm 7, an annular bead 89 is formed in the first side 63 of the diaphragm 7. The annular bead 89 is formed in the between the boundary 69 between the central portion 43 (where the diaphragm 7 flexes when the central portion 43 is moved up and down) and the peripheral portion 41 and the through-passages 77a-d.
It will be appreciated that the diaphragm 7 discussed above is given by way of example only. The person skilled in the art will appreciate that there are a number of different arrangements for diaphragms 7 that can form a static and dynamic seal as discussed above, and which includes stops 79 as an integral part of the diaphragm 7 to prevent over-compression.
In the example, shown above, the height of the stops is less than the thickness of the diaphragm sheet 39 and the stops 79a-d are flush with the first face 63 of the diaphragm 7 when uncompressed. it will be appreciated that the stops may be flush with the second face 65 instead, when uncompressed. Alternatively, the stops may be flush with neither face 63, 65 before the diaphragm 7 is compressed.
In the example discussed above, the stops 79s-d are formed within the through-passages 77a-d for receiving the bolts. However, this is by way of example only. The stops 79a-d may be formed in the sheet 39 of the diaphragm 7, separately to the passages 77a-d. As with the example where the stops 79a-d are formed in the passages 77a-& the stops 79a-d may be flush with either face 63, 65 of the diaphragm 7, or may be recessed from both faces 63, 65. In these examples, the diaphragm 7 may extend over one or both ends 83, 85 of the stops 79a-d or the stops 79a-d may be provided in recesses in the faces 63. 65 of the diaphragm 7.
Any number of stops may be provided. In the example shown, the stops are equally spaced around the third axis 45 and all provided at the same distance from the third axis 45, but this need not necessarily be the case.
Figures 3A to 3C the base 3 of the diaphragm valve 1. Figure 3A illustrates the base 3 in perspective view, and Figures 3B and 3C illustrate the base 3 in end on view from the inlet 21. This base 3 is as described in relation to Figure 1 unless explicitly stated otherwise.
As discussed above, the base 3 shown in Figures 3A to 3C comprises a flat bottom wall 13. At the ends 93, 95 of the base 3, where the inlet aperture 21 and outlet aperture 25 are formed, the outer face 113 of the housing 9 of the base 3 has a planar end portion 97, 99 that extends parallel to a plane formed by the second axis 33 and third axis 45. The end portions 97, 99 extend from the bottom wall 13 to the top 17 of the sidewall 15.
Sides 101, 103 of the base 3 are formed in the outer face 113 of the housing 15, extending between the end portions 97, 99. Each side 101, 103, includes a first planar portion 105, 107 and a second planar portion 109, 111. The first planar portions 105, 107 form part of the height of the sidewall 15 extending from the bottom wall 13, to part way between the bottom wall 13 and the top 17 of the sidcwall 15. The second planar portions 109, 1 1 1 form the rest of the height of the sidewall 15.
The first planar portions 105, 107 diverge away from each other as they extend upward from the bottom wall 13 (or converge together as the extend away from the top body portion 5). The angle of divergence is such that when the base 3 is placed so that one of the first planar surfaces 105, 107 is horizontal (and the valve is also tilted along the first axis 29), the diaphragm valve 1 is at the correct draining angle for draining fluid from the cavity 11.
As best shown in Figure 3C, when viewed end on, the angle 115 of the first planar portions 105, 107 is considered to be the angle between the third axis 45 and the first planar portion 105, 107 (measured clockwise for one side, and anti-clockwise of the other).
In other words, the angle 115 may be considered to be the angle between a plane formed by the first planar portion 105, 107, and a plane defined by the first axis 29 and the third axis 45. The angle 115 is the interior angle of a right angle triangle formed by the first planar portion 105, 107, the plane defined by the first axis 29 and the third axis 45 and a plane defined by the interface between the base 3 and top 5. Therefore, the first planar portions 105, 107 may be considered to be planes spaced from the first axis 29 along the second axis 33, and rotated around a further axis 117 parallel to the first axis 29 and in the planar portions 105, 107. The angle 115 is then measured anticlockwise for one of the first planar portions 105 and clockwise for the other of the first planar portions 107.
In one example the angle 115 of the first planar portions 105, 107 is at least 25 degrees. For example, the angle may be 28 degrees.
The second planar portions 109, 111 extend parallel to the third axis 45, from the first planar portions 105, 107 to the top 17 of the sidewall 15.
In one example, the base 3 may be made from metal, such as stainless steel. It may be that the base 3 is machined from a pre-formed ingot. The ingot may be pre-cut to an approximate size and/or shape prior to machining.
In the example discussed above, both sides 101, 103 of the peripheral s dewall 15 include a planar surface 105, 107. Therefore, the base 3 can be installed with fluid going in either direction. However, this is by way of example only. It may be only one of the sides 101, 103 includes a planar surface 105, 107.
The base 3 and peripheral sidewall 15 may have any suitable shape incorporating one (or more) angled planar portions 105, 107 for indicating the correct draining angle.
In the above example, the base 3 and top 5, and the stops 79, are made of metal such as stainless steel. However, it will be appreciated that any suitable material may be used. Furthermore, whilst the examples discussed above describe that the diaphragm 7 is made of rubber or silicone, it will be appreciated that any suitable resiliently deformable material may be used.
It will be appreciated that the diaphragm 7 with integrally formed stops 79 and the base 3 with at least one angled planar portion 105, 107 for indicating the correct installation angle may be used in any suitable diaphragm valve 1, and the arrangement discussed above is given by way of example only.
The diaphragm 7 may be used in any valve 1 in which the diaphragm 7 is compressed to form a static seal.
It will also be appreciated that the base 3 and top 5 may be constructed in any suitable way. For example, the inlet and outlet apertures 21, 25 may be formed in either the base 3 or the top 5, and the barrier 31 may be formed in either the base 3 or the top 5 (with the actuator means 55 formed in the other part). The inlet and outlet apertures 21, 25 need not be formed in the same body part 3, 5 as the barrier 31.
The valve I may include multiple inlets and/or outlets for mixing or dividing fluid paths.
The fluid path may be formed by a cavity 11, or a conduit or any other void that allows the passage of fluid.
Any suitable fixing means and fixing means may be used to control movement of the diaphragm 7 and hold the diaphragm together. In one example, the fixing means may I5 not pass through the diaphragm 7.
Any suitable actuator means can be used to move the central portion 43 of the diaphragm 7. In the example, a handle 57 is provided for manual turning by a user. However, the diaphragm valve may be actuated by any manual or mechanical means, such as electric, pneumatic or hydraulic.
The diaphragm 7 discussed above and shown in Figures 2A to 2C can be used in combination with any base 3 and top 5, and need not be used in combination with the base 3 shown in Figures 3A to 3C. Similarly, the base 3 discussed above and shown in Figures 3A to 3C need not be used in combination with the diaphragm 7 shown in Figures 2A to 2C, and can be used in combination with any top 5 and diaphragm 7.
Claims (22)
- Claims A diaphragm for a diaphragm valve, the diaphragm comprising: a sheet of a resiliently deformable material having a first face, an opposing second face, and a thickness between the first face and the second face, wherein a central portion of the sheet is arranged to be movable in a direction substantially parallel to the thickness such that the first face forms a dynamic seal that can be opened and closed to open and close a fluid path, wherein a peripheral portion of the sheet is arranged to be compressed to hold the diaphragm in place and form a static seal around the fluid path, and wherein the diaphragm includes one or more stops within in the IS peripheral portion of the sheet, the stops formed of a rigid material and extending parallel to the thickness of the diaphragm to limit compression of the peripheral portion of the sheet, the stops being an integral part of the diaphragm.2. A diaphragm as claimed in claim 1, wherein the one or more stops are made an integral part of the diaphragm by molding, overmolding, or fixing with adhesive.
- 2. A diaphragm as claimed in claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the peripheral portion includes one or more passages through the sheet between the first face and the second face, the passages arranged to receive fixing means for assembling a body of a diaphragm valve including the diaphragm; and each passage include a stop formed as a lining of the passage, the stop having a central opening arranged to receive the fixing means.
- 3. A diaphragm as claimed in claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the height of the stops between the first face and second face is less than the thickness of the sheet.
- 4. A diaphragm as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the stops do not extend beyond the first face and the second face in the direction of the thickness.
- A diaphragm as claimed in any preceding claim, including an annular bead formed on the first face, in the peripheral portion of the diaphragm
- 6. A diaphragm as claimed in claim 5, when dependent on 2 or any claim dependent thereon, wherein the annular bead is provided between the one or more passages and the central portion.
- 7. A diaphragm as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the stops are made of metal A diaphragm as claimed in claim 7. wherein the stops are stainless steel.
- I5
- 9. A diaphragm as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the stops are provided at the same radial distance from the centre of the sheet, and at even angular spacing around the sheet.
- 10. A diaphragm as claim in any preceding claim comprising four stops. 20
- 11. A diaphragm valve comprising: a body formed of a first body portion comprising a first housing, and a second body portion comprising a second housing, the first and second body portions joinable to define the fluid path; apertures in the body for forming an inlet into the fluid path and an outlet from the fluid path; a barrier extending across the fluid path and partially blocking the fluid path; and a diaphragm as claimed in any preceding claim, the diaphragm secured between the first and second body portions, wherein the peripheral portion of the sheet of the diaphragm forms a static seal between the first body portion and the second body portion, and wherein the central portion is moveable towards and away from the barrier to close or open the fluid path, the diaphragm valve further comprising actuator means for moving the central portion of the diaphragm
- 12. A body portion of a diaphragm valve comprising: a housing at least partially defining a fluid path along a first axis an outer face of the housing having a first planar portion extending in a first plane, wherein the first plane extends in a direction parallel to the first axis, and is spaced from the first axis along a second axis perpendicular to the first axis; wherein the first plane is rotated around a further axis parallel to the first axis and in the first plane, such that the first plane forms a predefined angle with a second plane formed by the first axis and a third axis, the third axis perpendicular to the first axis and the second axis; and wherein the predefined angle is arranged to define an installation angle for the body portion
- 13. A body portion as claimed in claim 12, wherein the predefined angle is at least 25 degrees, preferably wherein the predefined angle is 28 degrees.
- 14. A body portion as claimed in claim 12 or claim 13, further comprising a barrier extending across the fluid path, the barrier arranged to partially block the fluid path.
- 15. A body portion as claimed in any of claims 12 to 14, wherein the housing includes an inlet into the fluid path and an outlet from the fluid path,
- 16. A body portion as claimed in any of claims 12 to 15, wherein the outer face of the housing has a second planar portion extending in a third plane, wherein the third plane extends in a direction parallel to the first axis, and is spaced from the first axis along the second axis, in an opposite direction to the first plane; wherein the third plane is rotated around a second further axis parallel to the first axis and further axis, and in the third plane, such that the third plane forms a second predefined angle with the second plane; and wherein the magnitude of the second predefined angle is the same as the first predefined angle, in an opposite rotational direction to the first predefined angle.
- 17. A body portion as claimed in any of claims 12 to 16, wherein the body portion is made of metal.
- 18. A body portion as claimed in claim 17, wherein the body portion is stainless steel. 10
- 19. A diaphragm valve comprising: a body including: a first body portion as claimed in any of claims 12 to 18 a second body portion joinable to the first body portion to form the fluid path; apertures in the body for forming an inlet into the fluid path and an outlet from the fluid path; a barrier extending across the fluid path and partially blocking the fluid path; a diaphragm fixed between the first and second body portions, wherein a peripheral portion of the diaphragm forms a static seal between the first body portion and the second body portion, and wherein a central portion of the diaphragm is moveable towards and away from the barrier to close or open the fluid path; and actuator means for moving the central portion of the diaphragm.
- 20. A diaphragm valve as clarned in claim 19, wherein the diaphragm is the diaphragm as claimed in any of claim Ito 11.
- 21. A method of installing the diaphragm valve of claim 19 or claim 20, the method comprising: installing the valve such that the first planar portion is parallel to a ground surface.
- 22. A method of manufacturing the body portion of claim 17 or claim 18, the method comprising: providing a solid metal ingot substantially the size of the body portion; machining the bar to form at least part of the fluid passage; and machining the bar to form the first planar portion.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| GB2203318.7A GB2616460A (en) | 2022-03-10 | 2022-03-10 | Diaphragm and diaphragm valve |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| GB2203318.7A GB2616460A (en) | 2022-03-10 | 2022-03-10 | Diaphragm and diaphragm valve |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| GB202203318D0 GB202203318D0 (en) | 2022-04-27 |
| GB2616460A true GB2616460A (en) | 2023-09-13 |
Family
ID=81254874
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| GB2203318.7A Pending GB2616460A (en) | 2022-03-10 | 2022-03-10 | Diaphragm and diaphragm valve |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| GB (1) | GB2616460A (en) |
Citations (10)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US2947325A (en) * | 1956-02-06 | 1960-08-02 | Hills Mccanna Co | Valve diaphragm and method of making the same |
| US6047953A (en) * | 1999-04-27 | 2000-04-11 | Jacob, Jr.; Eugene W. | Diaphragm compression restrainer |
| US20020113223A1 (en) * | 2001-02-20 | 2002-08-22 | Newberg Douglas A. | Circumferential sealing diaphragm valve |
| US20030089876A1 (en) * | 2001-11-13 | 2003-05-15 | Cordova Ricardo Martin | Multi-use sterile access/GMP diaphragm valve housing |
| DE10223824A1 (en) * | 2002-05-28 | 2003-12-18 | Gaida Gregor | Membrane valve component for controllable fluid flow has transition between pipe connectors and seat, relevant for emptying process and in form of seat pocket, formed by generated surface of extruded component |
| US20060289825A1 (en) * | 2005-06-22 | 2006-12-28 | Wincek Christopher P | Valve diaphragm with a compression restraining ring, and valve including same |
| GB2443260A (en) * | 2006-10-26 | 2008-04-30 | Starbridge Systems Ltd | Micro valve |
| CN202691136U (en) * | 2012-07-05 | 2013-01-23 | 上海阀门五厂有限公司 | Nuclear grade M type pneumatic directly-through membrane valve |
| US20140224348A1 (en) * | 2013-02-14 | 2014-08-14 | Buerkert Werke Gmbh | Diaphragm valve housing and method for producing a diaphragm valve housing |
| WO2020203553A1 (en) * | 2019-03-29 | 2020-10-08 | 株式会社フジキン | Diaphragm and diaphragm valve |
-
2022
- 2022-03-10 GB GB2203318.7A patent/GB2616460A/en active Pending
Patent Citations (10)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US2947325A (en) * | 1956-02-06 | 1960-08-02 | Hills Mccanna Co | Valve diaphragm and method of making the same |
| US6047953A (en) * | 1999-04-27 | 2000-04-11 | Jacob, Jr.; Eugene W. | Diaphragm compression restrainer |
| US20020113223A1 (en) * | 2001-02-20 | 2002-08-22 | Newberg Douglas A. | Circumferential sealing diaphragm valve |
| US20030089876A1 (en) * | 2001-11-13 | 2003-05-15 | Cordova Ricardo Martin | Multi-use sterile access/GMP diaphragm valve housing |
| DE10223824A1 (en) * | 2002-05-28 | 2003-12-18 | Gaida Gregor | Membrane valve component for controllable fluid flow has transition between pipe connectors and seat, relevant for emptying process and in form of seat pocket, formed by generated surface of extruded component |
| US20060289825A1 (en) * | 2005-06-22 | 2006-12-28 | Wincek Christopher P | Valve diaphragm with a compression restraining ring, and valve including same |
| GB2443260A (en) * | 2006-10-26 | 2008-04-30 | Starbridge Systems Ltd | Micro valve |
| CN202691136U (en) * | 2012-07-05 | 2013-01-23 | 上海阀门五厂有限公司 | Nuclear grade M type pneumatic directly-through membrane valve |
| US20140224348A1 (en) * | 2013-02-14 | 2014-08-14 | Buerkert Werke Gmbh | Diaphragm valve housing and method for producing a diaphragm valve housing |
| WO2020203553A1 (en) * | 2019-03-29 | 2020-10-08 | 株式会社フジキン | Diaphragm and diaphragm valve |
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| GB202203318D0 (en) | 2022-04-27 |
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