Abstract: A universal valve adapted to utilize various types of tailpieces. The valve includes a body having a bore therethrough, a valve element positioned in the body and moveable between an open position which permits fluid flow through the bore and a closed position which prevents fluid flow through the bore, and at least one flange nut for releasably securing a tailpiece to an end of the body. The flange nut includes a recess that defines an inner surface adapted to engage the end of the body, an axially-facing annular inner face, and a tapered annular bearing surface disposed intermediate the inner surface and the inner face.

Abstract: A check valve module for use in a backflow preventer. The check valve module includes a housing, a valve element positioned in the housing and moveable between a closed position and an open position, and a spring retainer. The spring retainer includes at least one outwardly extending projection adapted to be received and secured in a recess positioned on an end of the housing. A spring is positioned between the spring retainer and the valve element for biasing the valve element towards the closed position and biasing the spring retainer to a locking position where the projection is secured in the recess.

Abstract: A cover seal system for a valve housing with an access port, such as those found on backflow prevention devices. The invention generally includes a generally U-shaped gasket positioned on a peripheral edge of an access port located in a lateral wall of a valve housing and an arcuate cover for closing the access port. The geometry of the arcuate cover creates a clamping force which is more uniform across a surface of the gasket enabling the cover to seal at an elevated test pressure. The gasket is made relatively hard to prevent extrusion from the joint between the valve housing and the cover under elevated pressures.