Abstract: An apparatus for assembling or disassembling a pipe in a pipe holder, includes: a washer having a body having an annular portion and an extended portion having central bore passing therethrough, the body made of a memory material; a compression fitting for insertion into the pipe holder, the extended portion fitting in the compression fitting; and, a lock for insertion into the pipe holder. The lock is for moving the compression fitting to deform the annular portion against the holder if inserted to form a seal between the pipe, the compression fitting and the holder. The lock also is for allowing the annular portion to reform and move against the holder if the lock is removed such that the compression fitting may be removed if the lock is removed.

Abstract: An apparatus for unsealing a pipe in a pipe assembly is disclosed. The apparatus has a seal for minimizing leakage from the pipe and a spring attaching to both the seal and the pipe assembly. If the seal is to be removed, a spring force of the spring acts against and moves the seal for removal of the seal.

Abstract: A kit for calibrating an amount of water required by a toilet with an amount of water to be supplied to the toilet has a first recorder for determining an amount of water in a toilet bowl, a second recorder for determining an amount of water in a toilet tank if the water in the toilet bowl reaches a determined level, and a valve for setting an amount of water delivered to the tank if the water reaches a determined level in the tank.

Abstract: An example adjustable part loader system includes a first loader adjacent a base and adjustable along the base having a first motor and a second loader adjacent the base and adjustable along the base having a second motor. The second loader is aligned with the first loader along the base in a position relative to a dimension of a first part to be loaded. The first loader and the second loader each carry a distinct portion of the same part. The first loader is adjustable relative to the second loader. A controller system in communication with the first loader and the second loader and controls both simultaneously.

Abstract: A gas supply coupling is disposed within and extends through an opening of a combustion chamber for a water heater. The coupling includes a fitting which is a relatively inexpensive stamped component. A stepped tubular connection extends from a plate and includes a first portion having a first diameter which necks down to a second portion having a second diameter less than the first diameter. The stepped tubular connection receives a gas supply tube into the first portion and a gas supply line over the second portion. The tubes are braised to the stepped connection. Other gas supply couplings include a machined fitting and a direct connection between a gas supply tube and a gas supply line in which the gas supply tube itself provides for both the seal to the shield and the connection to the gas supply line.

Abstract: A plumbing test cap has a body with a bore extending from a first end which is mountable over a stub-out having a surface engagement feature. The body has a closed second end. A retainer is carried on the body for transverse movement from a first position allowing movement of the body relative to the stub-out and a second position in which the retainer is locked to the body, in turn locking the body on the stub-out.

Abstract: Cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) tubing is utilized in a plumbing application for its strength and flexibility. A thin outer layer is formed around the PEX layer to provide a variety of color choices for the final tubing. The use of a softer material for the outer layer provides the unexpected benefit of a more secure connection as a standard connector having a ring is able to dig into the outer layer and provide a more secure grip and an improved hydraulic sealing.

Abstract: A fitting to be secured on pipes can be used with a number of distinct pipe materials and types. The fitting includes a nut receiving a Belleville spring washer. As the nut is tightened on threads on an end fitting, it forces the Belleville spring washer away from a relaxed position. This causes a radially inner portion of said spring washer to dig into an outer surface of the pipe, locking the Belleville spring washer, and hence the nut, on the pipe. The deformation of the washer also forces a ring against an inner seal, deforming the seal against the pipe, the nut, and the end fitting. In a second embodiment, a second washer is also deformed. The present invention provides a simple and universal method of attaching pipes to end fittings.

Abstract: A valve stem construction for a manipulable valve member used to control fluid flow through a valve. The valve stem extends externally of the valve housing for engagement by a valve handle used to manipulate the valve member between open and closed positions. The valve is formed with a plurality of circumferentially spaced concave splines extending longitudinally on the outer surface of the valve stem. The splines are spaced so as to maximize transmission of rotational torque while minimizing flexure and twisting of the valve stem. The spacing and configuration of the individual splines also ensure a strong mating fit with the valve handle.

Abstract: A stop valve includes a valve body, a multishot resilient control sleeve, O-ring and handle. The control sleeve is molded to the valve stem to create an integral but separately molded fluid control member. Inlet line pressure resiliently biases the side walls of the control sleeve and a circumferential sealing flap formed thereon into sealing engagement with the valve bore to prevent leakage. The control sleeve consists of a hard plastic cylinder and a flexible barrel member molded as one consistent piece by a multishot molding process. The O-ring also serves as a backup seal to prevent leakage to atmosphere. A valve handle is secured to the valve by either a screw or a snap protrusion.

Abstract: A number of improved excess flow valves are disclosed wherein pressure drop is optimized through the device to maximize efficiency while minimizing shut-off flow rates. Flow restrictions are minimized throughout the valve structure and maximized across a valve closure plate, eliminating flow restriction variations caused by orientation of the valve components. A magnet having radially opposing poles optimizes the magnet's attractive force relationship with the valve plate.

Abstract: A fill valve assembly for a toilet tank which reduces the fluid noise associated with filling of the tank. The fill assembly includes a fill tube mounted within the tank for delivering water. A fill housing is mounted to the upper end of the fill tube and includes a fill valve operably connected to a float. The float will open the valve when the water in the tank drops below a predetermined level and shuts off the valve when the fluid reaches the level. The interior of the housing includes structure for forming a laminar fluid flow out of the valve which reduces the fluid noise associated with filling the tank.

Abstract: A gas supply coupling for a water heater incorporating a shield to close the opening to the combustion chamber. The coupling includes a supply tube, a connector extending through the shield and a gas supply line detachably connected to the connector. The connector is staked to the shield to prevent disassembly requiring that the entire coupling be removed from the combustion chamber prior to disassembly. The gas supply line includes a threaded fastener having a unique exterior configuration requiring a specialized tool for separation from the connector.

Abstract: A number of improved excess flow valves are disclosed wherein the flow around a magnet holding portion of the valve body is generally unrestricted to reduce the pressure drop across the valve. The valve is preferably also formed separately from its valve seat to reduce the complexity of the valve, and allow it to have less resistance to flow. The valve seat may be provided as a separate part, or may be provided in the conduit.

Abstract: A number of improved excess flow valves are disclosed wherein the flow around a magnet holding portion of the valve body is generally unrestricted to reduce the pressure drop across the valve. The valve is preferably also formed separately from its valve seat to reduce the complexity of the valve, and allow it to have less resistance to flow. The valve seat may be provided as a separate part, or may be provided in the conduit.