Abstract: A fluid coupling component having a valve that functions in a conventional manner when the component is connected to a mating component, but functions as a pressure relief valve when the component is in a disconnected condition. The coupling component includes a poppet and a valve, both mounted for sliding movement within a housing, and urged into engagement by a valve spring, when in the disconnected condition. A shoulder inside the housing limits movement of the poppet in a direction out of the housing, and allows sufficient internal fluid pressure to move the valve out of engagement with the poppet.

Abstract: An improved fluid line connector in which an O ring seal (64) in a male portion (10) of the connector is better protected against failure in high-pressure or high-flow conditions. The seal is peripherally surrounded over more than half its thickness by a retainer (70) having an annular peripheral lip (72). In the sealed condition, reaction forces acting through the seal hold the lip (72) away from the valve seat structure while still permitting a perfect seal, and in the connected condition the retainer (70) provides maximum protection against washing out of the seal. In addition, a retainer securing ring (76) limits movement of the retainer (70) and further minimizes seal washout.

Abstract: A gas venting mechanism includes a valve chamber that is at least partially filled with a liquid. At the top of the chamber, an outlet valve allows the gas to escape but retains the liquid. Air is admitted to the chamber through an inlet valve that prevents backflow of the liquid into a passage by which the gas is supplied. The chamber is transparent so that the venting of gas can be verified by observation. A piston that reduces the effective volume of the chamber facilitates testing of the chamber for leakage of the liquid. The venting mechanism can be advantageously combined with a degasser in an aircraft hydraulic system.

Abstract: A coupling that permits a connection to be made to a fluid system with a minimum of included air, even though the coupled device is not pre-filled. The coupling is particularly advantageously employed as part of a sampler used to take fluid samples for analysis as to air content. It includes a valve housing, a valve seat slidable within the housing and a valve closure member slidable within the seat. A lost motion mechanism allows joint movement of the seat and closure member prior to disengagement of the seat from the closure member. The fluid passage by which fluid is withdrawn from the system extends through the closure member.

Abstract: A device for separating dissolved or entrained gas from a liquid and particularly for separating dissolved or entrained air from oil used in hydraulic systems or as electrical insulation. Contaminated oil, containing dissolved or entrained gas, is introduced into a degassing chamber where the gas is removed in a relatively low pressure atmosphere. The oil, with at least part of the gas removed is withdrawn from the chamber through a cycling valve which automatically closes when the oil in the chamber reaches a low level at the end of a degassing phase. After the cycling valve closes, the degassing chamber begins to fill with oil, and the rising oil level operates as a piston to expell the previously separated gas through a vent. When the oil completely fills the chamber, the vent closes and pressure within the chamber rises until a predetermined pressure is reached. The cycling valve then opens automatically, allowing the oil to again be withdrawn.