초록 ▼

An elastomeric sleeve is placed under axial compression in a pinch valve assembly. The axial compression of the sleeve eliminates any crevices with end members that engage opposed end walls of the valve body. Further, axial compression extends cycle life of the valve by maintaining the sleeve in a n

An elastomeric sleeve is placed under axial compression in a pinch valve assembly. The axial compression of the sleeve eliminates any crevices with end members that engage opposed end walls of the valve body. Further, axial compression extends cycle life of the valve by maintaining the sleeve in a non-tensile relationship. Mechanical gripping of enlarged flanges defined at opposed ends of the sleeve is also enhanced through axial compression of the sleeve. A positive, visual indication of valve open and closed positions is provided by an indicator stem extending outwardly from an actuator body. In an alternate embodiment, the flanges are reinforced. Additionally, a casting member is interposed between the valve body and sleeve for ease of replacement and maintenance. In still another embodiment, a vent opening in the valve body eliminates pneumatic closure forces on the elastomeric sleeve that can arise when the pinch valve is heated. The vent opening can also be connected to a valve to provide selective venting of the valve body.

대표청구항 ▼

A valve comprising: a body having an opening for communicating with an inlet defined in a first end member and an outlet defined in a second end member, said end members being disposed on opposite sides of said body; a flexible member closely received in said opening, said flexible member having fir

A valve comprising: a body having an opening for communicating with an inlet defined in a first end member and an outlet defined in a second end member, said end members being disposed on opposite sides of said body; a flexible member closely received in said opening, said flexible member having first and second ends abuttingly engaging said first and second end members and a bore extending through said flexible member communicating with said inlet and outlet, said flexible member having an unstressed, first axial dimension greater than a compressed, second axial dimension; means for interconnecting said first and second end members and axially compressing said flexible member to said second axial dimension; and, an actuation member associated with said body for selective reciprocation toward and away from said flexible member to affect opening and closing of said valve.