Abstract: Disclosed is a method, system and apparatus for use in remotely and internally tapping a conduit. The method is performed, at least partially, by an automatic mechanism or robot configured to effectively perform the tasks and various steps of the method. The method includes the steps of: (a) lining a conduit with a liner; and (b) inserting an automatic mechanism into an internal portion of the liner, wherein the automatic mechanism (i) locates a service tap connection point; and (ii) at least partially engages a fitting device within an internal surface of the service tap entry portion, thereby providing fluid communication between a service tap internal passageway and an internal portion of the liner. An automatic mechanism, a fitting device and an insert element are also disclosed.

Abstract: A housing (10) for mounting on a mounting surface and for supporting and protectively enclosing a regulator (12) and one or more gauges (14,16) associated with providing, controlling, and monitoring a flow of gas from a pressurized gas supply, such as is commonly used, for example, in welding, cutting, and otherwise heating metal. The housing (10) comprises a front (20); a left side (22); a right side (24); a top (26), including a bolt flange (28); a bottom (30); a hinge (32); and a securement mechanism (34). The hinge (32) allows for easy access to the regulator (12) and gauges (14,16) without requiring that the housing (10) be completely removed from the mounting surface. The securement mechanism (34) includes one or more isolation mechanisms (64,68) for reducing or substantially eliminating transmission of potentially accuracy-affecting or otherwise damaging vibrations to the regulator (12) and gauges (14,16).

Abstract: A spill containment system and method that contain leaks and spills from devices including but not limited to batteries. The system neutralizes and absorbs leaks and spills to prevent the leaks and spills from spreading. The system not only detects leaks, but also indicates whether a leak has occurred. The system can communicate with personnel or devices to raise an alarm or cause corrective measures to occur.

Abstract: A valve assembly includes an escutcheon that is secured to a valve housing by a threaded adapter. Thus, no screws need extend through the escutcheon, resulting in a more visually pleasing outer appearance. Further, a trim sleeve may be inserted into the escutcheon adapter to turn the escutcheon adapter relative to the valve housing and adjust the position of the escutcheon tightly against the wall. The present invention thus provides an escutcheon which need not have any screws to secure it to the fixed structure, but which is securely held to the valve housing.

Abstract: A pipe fitting with a body adapted for connection at a first end thereof to a supply pipe and at a second end thereof to a distribution pipe so as to permit fluid communication between the supply pipe and the distribution pipe. The body is provided with first valve device by which said fluid communication can be interrupted. The body is provided with an upstream port and a downstream port, respectively upstream and downstream, in use, of the first valve device. The upstream port and said downstream port permitting the first valve device to be by-passed and fluid from the supply pipe to be introduced to the distribution pipe.

Abstract: An improved surround structure and method of installation for surrounding the base of a water-containing appliance to prevent water leakage onto a concrete floor is disclosed where a lower portion of the surround structure is embedded in the concrete floor as it is being formed and an upper portion of the surround structure extends above the basement floor to surround the base of the appliance.

Abstract: A fluid diversion apparatus, which has a first member and a second member, each said member having at least one fluid inlet and at least one fluid outlet, the first member comprising a fluid inlet adapted for connection to a fluid pipe, and a fluid outlet adapted for connection to a fluid pipe such that fluid passing through the fluid pipes passes through the first member in a fluid flow direction, and a connecting means, the second member being attached to the first member via the connecting means, the second member having a first end and a second end, the first end being positioned inside the first member, the first end having an inlet means and an outlet means, the second end of the second member having an inlet and an outlet, the inlet of the first end of the second member is in fluid connection with the outlet of the second end and the outlet of the first end is in fluid connection with the inlet of the second end.

Abstract: A microprocessor-based gas meter has fully electronic control, safety cutoff and data communication functions, while remains the same size of a conventional gas meter. The control circuit board in the microprocessor-based gas meter is mounted inside the main body of the gas meter through a mounting slot. The sensors, wires and battery are located in the rest space of the chamber so as to utilize the space of the chamber. When an abnormal situation is detected, the control circuit activates a cutoff valve and shuts off the gas intake. The data communication function is to transfer gas-metering data through telephone lines to the gas company so that the mistakes and cost of manual checking and recording can be eliminated.

Abstract: A pipe, piping system, kit, and radiant heating system that include lengths of cross-linked polyethylene pipe, which form connections between flow components. Some embodiments utilize a sheath disposed about the outside of the cross-linked polyethylene pipe to enhance rigidity.

Abstract: A battery spill containment system and method that contain leaks and spills from batteries. The system neutralizes and absorbs leaks and spills to prevent the spills from spreading. The system may have rails that are readily removable to permit access to batteries and to allow more batteries to be stored in a given vertical space. Another system is comprised of modular pans that are connected to each other to form a larger spill containment system.

Abstract: A housing (10) for mounting on a mounting surface and for supporting and protectively enclosing a regulator (12) and one or more gauges (14,16) associated with providing, controlling, and monitoring a flow of gas from a pressurized gas supply, such as is commonly used, for example, in welding, cutting, and otherwise heating metal. The housing (10) comprises a front (20); a left side (22); a right side (24); a top (26), including a bolt flange (28); a bottom (30); a hinge (32); and a securement mechanism (34). The hinge (32) allows for easy access to the regulator (12) and gauges (14,16) without requiring that the housing (10) be completely removed from the mounting surface. The securement mechanism (34) includes one or more isolation mechanisms (64,68) for reducing or substantially eliminating transmission of potentially accuracy-affecting or otherwise damaging vibrations to the regulator (12) and gauges (14,16).

Abstract: A method for fabricating a microfluidic device where first and second substantially flat platens are provided. Multiple substantially planar, substantially metal-free, adhesiveless polymer device layers, the device layers including a first cover layer, second cover layer, and at least one stencil layer defining a microfluidic channel penetrating through the entire thickness of the stencil layer also are provided. Each stencil layer is disposed between other device layers such that the channel is bounded laterally by a stencil layer, and bounded from above and below by surrounding device layers to define an upper channel surface and a lower channel surface. The device layers are stacked between the first platen and the second platen. The stacked device layers are controllably heated according to a heating profile adapted to form a substantially sealed adhesiveless microfluidic device wherein each upper channel surface remains distinct from its corresponding lower channel surface.

Abstract: A flush-mount connector system is provided for use in attaching supply line valves and drain elbows to in-wall plumbing lines without a conventional in-wall outlet box. The system desirably includes at least one mounting plate, at least one valve holder or drain elbow, and a removable cover panel. The valve holder and drain elbow are each insertable into frictional engagement with a hole in the mounting plate and are rotatable inside the hole to position an attached valve, valves or drain elbow as needed for connection to the in-wall plumbing lines.

Abstract: A pressure support system that includes a first housing member and a second housing member. The first housing member has a first plurality of cavities defined therein, and the second housing member has a second plurality of cavities defined therein. The first and second plurality of cavities cooperate to define (a) a first chamber adapted to receive a first component of the pressure support system, (b) a second chamber adapted to receive a second component of the pressure support system, and (c) a first conduit connecting the first component and the second in fluid communication when the first and second housing members are assembled. A fastening system secures the first and second housing members in an assembled relation.

Abstract: In a fuel injection valve, an adjustment pipe made of stainless steel and for adjusting a compression amount of a spring biasing a valve member is press-fitted into a cylindrical housing made of stainless steel, and a fuel injection amount is adjusted by adjusting a spring force of the spring in accordance with a press-fitted amount of the adjustment pipe. The adjustment pipe is immersed in an oxalic acid solution so that an oxalate film is formed thereon before being press-fitted into the cylindrical housing. Therefore, the oxalate film prevents a direct press-contact between an outer peripheral surface of the adjustment pipe and an inner peripheral surface of the cylindrical housing.

Abstract: A plumbing tool and its method of use are disclosed wherein the plumbing tool includes a tube for insertion into a pipe beyond an area of such pipe that is to be soldered, such tube having an inflatable balloon structure at one end thereof. After the tube is inserted in the pipe and the balloon structure is positioned at the location where fluid stoppage is desired, the balloon structure is inflated to allow for soldering operations to be completed. A water bypass can be disposed within such tube for directing any fluid flow to the exterior of the pipe.

Abstract: A fluid control valve includes a swivel joint for pivotally mounting a decorative escutcheon relative to a valve body so that the escutcheon can mount flush against the mounting wall when the wall or the valve is out of plumb. There is a valve housing from which extends a rotatable valve stem, an escutcheon mountable around the housing or stem, a swivelable bearing also disposed about the housing or stem, and a skirt mounted around the stem. Tightening the skirt drives its inner edge against the bearing which in turn abuts the escutcheon. The escutcheon can pivot relative to the bearing due to abutting curved surfaces on the escutcheon and bearing.

Abstract: A pump assembly flows pressurized engine oil to hydraulic injectors in a diesel engine. The assembly includes a high-pressure pump with a bored piston passage. The outer end of the piston bore is closed by a plug assembly pressed in the bore.

Abstract: A hose reel includes a reel and a movable curve tube disposed on the center of a tabular rack. A cover is fixed on a lateral side of the rack while a crank is positioned on the other lateral side. A multi-path hose connects to a movable curve tube by a coupling for being wound on the reel through the crank.

Abstract: Microfluidic systems and devices having integrated fluidic impedances are provided. Such impedances hinder the passage of fluid at low differential pressures, but allow fluid flow at higher differential pressures. Impedances are formed at the overlap of two or more microfluidic channels contained in different layers of a device. Such devices can be rapidly prototyped and can be assembled to contain multiple fluidic impedances to perform complex fluid handling tasks, including the metering of small aliquots from a larger fluid volume. Various means may be used to overcome the fluidic impedances.

Abstract: A gas delivery system for propane or natural gas includes a gas service line, a pressure regulator connected in the gas service line, and a flow control valve device permanently installed at a predetermined location in the gas service line, e.g., upstream of the regulator or downstream of a gas meter in the case of a natural gas system. The flow control valve device includes a valve body incorporating an integral pressure tap for enabling a measurement of gas pressure at the predetermined locations. The valve device also includes a valve operator having an open position in which flow takes place through the valve device and a closed position in which flow through the valve device is blocked and a locking mechanism with a specialized key issued only to service personnel for selectively locking the valve operator in the open and closed positions.

Abstract: An automatic system and method for changing a disposable nozzle for a multiple component reactant mixture injector. A robot supports a mixing head that is used to inject a reactant mixture. The robot moves the mixing head including a shroud and the disposable nozzle to a nozzle changing station. The shroud is retained on the mixing head by a threaded collar that is unscrewed at the nozzle changing station by a nut runner. The used nozzle is ejected from the shroud, engaged by a gripper and disposed of while a new disposable nozzle is obtained from a magazine and placed in the shroud. The threaded collar reattaches the shroud to the mixing head and the mixing head is returned to operation.

Abstract: A valve with an integral means for bleeding internal pressure prior to separation of a bonnet for the valve from its engagement with the valve body, provided by a bore through the valve body. This allows the internal pressure of the valve to equalize with atmospheric pressure prior to complete disassembly of the bonnet from the valve body. The bore through the valve body also serves as a leak detector, by providing a path for fluids passing through the valve to leak to the exterior of the valve body in the event of a failure of the seal between the bonnet and the valve body, which can readily be detected by passersby upon inspection of the exposed end of the bore at the exterior of the valve body.

Abstract: The liquid distributor (1) for columns (6) has a main passage (2), a plurality of secondary passages (3) and an outflow system (5) of the main passage. The liquid (4) to be distributed can be fed into the secondary passages in accordance with a pre-set ratio by this outflow system. The outflow system (5) comprises apertures (20) in the side walls of the main passage and—associated with the secondary passages—guide elements (50) for the liquid (41) exiting through the apertures. The guide elements are designed with respect to a liquid guidance such that the liquid (42) can be led into the associated secondary passage.

Abstract: A device and method for installing yard hydrants which renders the yard hydrant easily installed and replaced. The device includes a buried adapter, a sleeve, and a cap. The buried adapter has an inlet for attachment to a buried water system pipe, an outlet for attachment to a valve body of a yard hydrant, a peripheral wall for attachment to a vertical sleeve, and a drain hole. The sleeve is preferably a pipe sized to receive the valve body of a yard hydrant. The cap illustratively includes an internally threaded collar screwed onto the top of the sleeve and two cover pieces locked to the collar against rotation, each cover piece having an upturned flange with semi-cylindrical recesses which clamp the standpipe of the yard hydrant between them. The device is attached to an underground water pipe, the yard hydrant is then inserted into the sleeve and removably screwed onto the adapter, and the cap is applied to lock the yard hydrant in place.

Abstract: A pressure relief valve has a gasketed main body fastened to a vessel wall adjacent to a vent port, the body having a recess surrounding the port which receives a plastic insert removably coupled to the body by a retaining ring fastened to the main body. The insert defines a passage communicating with the port and a valve seat engageable by a seal assembly for closing the valve. The seal assembly includes an annular retainer for a seal O-ring and a plug receivable through the retainer and into a socket in a valve stem, which is spring-biased against the retainer and is guided in a guide assembly removably mounted on the main body. The insert is formed of plastic and the retainer and plug may also be formed of plastic and can be readily field-removable by simply unbolting the housing from the vessel and unfastening the retaining ring. The guide and bias assemblies need not be disassembled.

Abstract: A plug for plugging a first port and blocking insertion of a second plug into a second port of a fluid system. The plug includes a threaded plug portion and a blocking stem portion extending from the threaded plug portion. The stem portion projects into the second port and blocks insertion or mounting of a second plug and thereby keeps the second port unplugged. In a disclosed embodiment, the plug is mounted into the return port of an oil pump unit of an oil burner to block bypassed flow from returning to the local reservoir of the oil pump unit. This prevents two plugs from being inadvertently mounted that could otherwise block all bypass flow in the pump unit and cause excess pressure build ups and blown seals.

Abstract: A spool for carrying continuous pipe or coiled tubing for a coiled tubing injector is dropped into a stand at a site and coupled to a rotary power source. The stand includes two axles, on either side of the spool, and a drive coupling. A pipe slideably extends through one of the axles. It is retracted when the spool is lowered onto the stand and then extended for communicating fluid between the coiled tubing and a fluid source. A swivel joint is connected to one end of the pipe. The pipe is permitted to turn with the spool or is held stationary with respect to the stand depending on whether the swivel joint is mounted outside the stand or inside the spool.

Abstract: A fluid handling system is disclosed having a swivel for connecting a stationary fluid source line to a fluid service line that is wound upon a reel. A rotor cap secures the fluid source line and a rotor within the swivel in position, allowing a housing within the swivel to freely rotate with the fluid service line and reel. The swivel is coupled to the fluid source line using a crimping ferrule to eliminate the necessity of predisposing mating components on the fluid source line. The swivel is further provided with seals that reduce the incidence of bunching and tear due to the reduction in drag imposed on the seals.

Abstract: A tank for use in connection with a reverse osmosis water purification system includes a first portion of quick connect/disconnect fitting, preferably of the type known as John Guest. A complimentary second portion of the quick connect/disconnect fitting mates with the fitting first portion to permit quick flow connection and disconnection to the tank with, and through, the fitting. The tank-mounted first portion of the quick connect/disconnect fitting is preferably a simple upstanding tube having a circumferential channel; making that the complimentary second portion of the quick connect/disconnect fitting mates with this first portion by selectively compressibly grasping the circumferential channel.

Abstract: An irrigation valve comprises a valve housing made from a valve body joined to a valve bonnet by a plurality of attachment screws. The valve body and valve bonnet have an alignment rib received in an alignment notch when the body and bonnet are joined together such that the holes that receive the attachment screws are automatically aligned with one another. The attachment screws have a smooth portion adjacent a threaded portion such that the smooth portion when visible signals to the user that the attachment screws are clear of the valve body but are still captured in the valve bonnet. The valve includes a solenoid that may be remotely actuated to open the valve. An L-shaped actuator arm is also operatively connected to the solenoid for manually opening the valve with the upper portion of the actuator arm being closer to the user than in previous valves and thus easier to grip and turn.

Abstract: Monolithically-molded subassemblies (1, 2, 3) are used to retrofit existing reverse osmosis systems into zero waste RO systems. The subassemblies reduce the number of connections necessary such that the retrofitting may be accomplished by unskilled labor. The subassemblies may be integrally packaged together on a backboard 45 and are placed in-line in the inlet to the RO unit and in each of the outlets from the RO unit. For example, the first subassembly 1 (FIG. 9) includes an input port 10 for connecting to source of water to be purified, an first portal 103 communicating with a pressure switch, a second portal 102 communicating with a pressure gauge and an output port 12 communicating with the RO unit inlet. Using the subassemblies, the retrofit most typically requires only six connections thereby simplifying system installation, improving system reliability, and extending system longevity.

Abstract: Apparatus and method of assembling an interior fuel systems component suitable for immersion in liquid fuel in a tank to an exterior component of different material weldable to the fuel tank. The exterior component is preferably formed of HDPE having a hardness in the range of about RR-40 to RR-80 and has an array of projections extending therefrom. The interior component has a corresponding array of radially extending slots having barbed edges for push on connection to the projections. The slots permit sliding movement due to material swelling of the projection on the barbs without loosening of the connection. The internal component is preferably formed of material comprising a member of the group consisting of Polyamide, Polyketone and Polyphenylamide and having a hardness in the range of about R112, such that the barbs deform the lugs to maintain the connection.

Abstract: A coupling for microcomponents has several essentially plane-parallel plates with line connections for delivering and discharging liquid or gaseous components. The line connections are mounted on a connection block which protrudes through openings in the plates with fixing segments that engage a pressure plate retained by a clip. The line connections open out in an area of line bores in the plate.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for repairing a valve, the valve being attached to a tank, the method including steps of providing a valve tool having a rigid tube and having an elastic air bladder, such bladder having a port, the port being connected to the tube, the valve tool further having a check valve; opening the valve in need of repair; extending the valve tool into such valve; injecting air into the rigid tube, causing the bladder to seal against the tank; detaching and withdrawing such valve; repairing such valve; reattaching such valve; opening the check valve to break the seal; and withdrawing the valve tool.

Abstract: An actuator mounting device for mounting an actuator having an actuator housing to a support structure associated with a fluid flow control unit. The actuator mounting device includes a mounting bracket and a pair of guide members. The mounting bracket includes a pair of spaced side walls, a rail extending from each side wall, and a stop. The pair of spaced side walls define a leading end and a trailing end. Further, each of the side walls has a base portion securable to the support structure. Finally, the stop is positioned at the trailing end of the spaced side walls. The pair of guide members are each configured to be mountable to an opposing side of the actuator housing and each include an engagement surface configured to slidably engage one of said rails. During assembly of the actuator to the support structure, the rails direct the guide members to a secured position at which the actuator housing is connected to the stop.

Abstract: An irrigation valve comprises a valve housing made from a valve body joined to a valve bonnet by a plurality of attachment screws. The valve body and valve bonnet have an alignment rib received in an alignment notch when the body and bonnet are joined together such that the holes that receive the attachment screws are automatically aligned with one another. The attachment screws have a smooth portion adjacent a threaded portion such that the smooth portion when visible signals to the user that the attachment screws are clear of the valve body but are still captured in the valve bonnet. The valve includes a solenoid that may be remotely actuated to open the valve. An L-shaped actuator arm is also operatively connected to the solenoid for manually opening the valve with the upper portion of the actuator arm being closer to the user than in previous valves and thus easier to grip and turn.

Abstract: The invention provides a fluidic oscillator that is symmetrical about a longitudinal plane of symmetry (P), comprising an enclosure defining an oscillation chamber and having an inlet opening and an outlet opening through which the fluid flows and which are in alignment in said plane (P) in a “longitudinal” first direction (A), said inlet opening being made in the form of a slot that is narrow in a second direction (B) extending transversely to said plane (P) and elongate in a third direction (C) parallel to said plane (P) and perpendicular to said longitudinal first direction (A), wherein said slot is provided in an insert which is removable from said enclosure.

Abstract: A fire hydrant automatic shut-off valve including a cylindrical sleeve having an open lower end and an open upper end. The open lower end receives a water supply stand pipe therein. The open upper end receives an open lower end of the fire hydrant thereon whereby the open lower end of the fire hydrant is in communication with the water supply stand pipe. A pair of flaps is hingedly coupled with the open upper end of the cylindrical sleeve. The pair of flaps close to a corresponding horizontal position to effectively seal the cylindrical sleeve to prevent water from flowing from the water supply stand pipe to the fire hydrant. A trigger sleeve is slidably disposed within the open upper end of the cylindrical sleeve. The trigger sleeve extends downwardly to push the pair of flaps outwardly to allow water to flow freely from the water supply stand pipe to the fire hydrant.

Abstract: An irrigation valve comprises a valve housing made from a valve body joined to a valve bonnet by a plurality of attachment screws. The valve body and valve bonnet have an alignment rib received in an alignment notch when the body and bonnet are joined together such that the holes that receive the attachment screws are automatically aligned with one another. The attachment screws have a smooth portion adjacent a threaded portion such that the smooth portion when visible signals to the user that the attachment screws are clear of the valve body but are still captured in the valve bonnet. The valve includes a solenoid that may be remotely actuated to open the valve. An L-shaped actuator arm is also operatively connected to the solenoid for manually opening the valve with the upper portion of the actuator arm being closer to the user than in previous valves and thus easier to grip and turn.

Abstract: A modular catch pan for wellheads includes a rigid pan body consisting of two detachably coupled sections, the body having a circular opening. A plurality of split annular adaptor collars are provided. Each of the adaptor collars has the same outer diameter so that any one of them can be fitted into the circular opening. Each of the adaptor collars has an outer circumferential sealing surface adapted to form a seal with the circular opening of the body. Each of the adaptor collars has an inner circumferential sealing surface. The size of the inner circumferential sealing surface and the distance of the inner circumferential sealing surface from the outer circumferential sealing surface varies between adaptor collars. The modular catch pan can be adapted to fit any installation by selecting a suitable adaptor collar.

Abstract: In the case of a fuel tank for a motor vehicle, a filling pipe (2), which is welded to a tank chamber (1), has a section (3) provided for the separation. The section (3) provided for the separation is adjoined by regions for the attachment of a connecting part. This enables the tank chamber (1) to be taken out of the motor vehicle and to be subsequently refitted without removing the entire filling pipe (2).

Abstract: A fitting for conduit comprising a body and an acceptor. The body has a wall and a throughbore. The acceptor is disposed along the wall and is capable of providing a sealing interface between the throughbore and the conduit. In one embodiment, the acceptor of the fitting receives a portion of at least one wall of a conduit, and a sealing interface is provided between the throughbore of the body of the fitting and a flow passage of the conduit to form a containment system. In another embodiment, the throughbore is capable of allowing a primary conduit and a flow passage of a secondary conduit to communicate therethrough. According to this embodiment, the acceptor receives a portion of a wall of the secondary conduit and a sealing interface is provide between the throughbore and the flow passage of the secondary conduit to form a secondary containment system.

Abstract: A packer joint is provided for mounting on a vessel or pipeline entry valve which includes a stinger guide and seal. Clamping collet are mounted within the packer to retain the stinger in the desired position. Different metals within the guide body from those of the stinger rod prevent gaulding and damage. A lock-up the rod may be released via a bore hole providing tapping access to the collets.

Abstract: A probe structure for inserting into and operating upon an object within a pipeline, especially a high pressure pipeline carrying liquid or gas, is characterized by two coaxial cylinders that can be either pneumatically or hydraulically actuated. A primary cylinder is adapted to be mounted onto a pipeline tee and/or valve, and includes a movable primary piston to which is fixedly attached a primary lower hollow shaft that moves with the primary piston and preferably a primary upper hollow shaft that also moves with the primary piston. The primary lower hollow shaft is adapted to selectively extend into the pipeline while the primary upper hollow shaft extends above the primary cylinder and is fixed to a secondary cylinder, such that the secondary cylinder moves with the primary piston. The secondary piston includes a secondary piston that moves independently of the first and second cylinders.

Abstract: An irrigation valve comprises a valve housing made from a valve body joined to a valve bonnet by a plurality of attachment screws. The valve body and valve bonnet have an alignment rib received in an alignment notch when the body and bonnet are joined together such that the holes that receive the attachment screws are automatically aligned with one another. The attachment screws have a smooth portion adjacent a threaded portion such that the smooth portion when visible signals to the user that the attachment screws are clear of the valve body but are still captured in the valve bonnet. The valve includes a solenoid that may be remotely actuated to open the valve. An L-shaped actuator arm is also operatively connected to the solenoid for manually opening the valve with the upper portion of the actuator arm being closer to the user than in previous valves and thus easier to grip and turn.

Abstract: A gas delivery system for propane or natural gas includes a gas service line, a pressure regulator connected in the gas service line, and a flow control valve device permanently installed at a predetermined location in the gas service line, e.g., upstream of the regulator or downstream of a gas meter in the case of a natural gas system. The flow control valve device includes a valve body incorporating an integral pressure tap for enabling a measurement of gas pressure at the predetermined locations. The valve device also includes a valve operator having an open position in which flow takes place through the valve device and a closed position in which flow through the valve device is blocked and a locking mechanism with a specialized key issued only to service personnel for selectively locking the valve operator in the open and closed positions.

Abstract: A system and method are disclosed for sealing leaks in electrical insulators and other equipment without the need for depressurizing that equipment. The system and method may be readily adapted to seal any joint, regardless of its configuration. In addition, while the system and method provide an effective and sure seal, the seal may be readily removed in order to change out the leaking component at a future date. A tubular seal is maneuvered into position to encircle the leaking joint. A reinforcing layer is applied over the seal. The seal is then filled with sealant under pressure. The seal isolates the sealant and its direct hydraulic pressure from the operating components to prevent the sealant from contacting those components, while simultaneously providing sufficient force against the leaking joint to stop the leak.

Abstract: A pressure flow stop for temporarily blocking flow of water from a main water supply line to a residence or business, in order to facilitate replacement of a damaged, defective or deteriorated water shutoff valve, or “curbstop”, of the residence or business. In a preferred embodiment the pressure flow stop is characterized by an elongated, typically cylindrical stem housing which is removably attached to the damaged, defective or deteriorated shutoff valve after the shutoff valve is closed and the water meter is removed from the shutoff valve, respectively. An elongated, flexible stem, terminated by an inflatable balloon, is slidably disposed in the stem housing, and the shutoff valve is opened to facilitate extension of the balloon end of the stem from the housing through the shutoff valve and into the water source pipe leading from the main water line.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for the in situ repair or replacement of a pipeline, such as, a natural gas pipeline is made up of a transition fitting having a tubular section with means for temporarily sealing off that section, an expansion tool having an elongated handle control and an expandable portion insertable through the transition fitting and into an upstream pipeline to form a seal which prevents the escape of gas from the pipeline while one end of the transition fitting is being joined to the upstream pipeline. After the expandable portion is removed from the pipeline and the transition fitting, the tubular section of the transition fitting is sealed to prevent the escape of gas into the atmosphere as the fitting is being joined with the downstream or replacement pipeline. Once joined, the seal on the transition fitting is removed and the gas in the pipeline is free to flow through the pipeline.