Abstract: A poppet valve assembly is sized and constructed for insertion into the lower portion of a flow control valve used within the opening of a cylinder for storing a compressed gas. When the flow control valve is removed, the normally open poppet valve assembly of the present invention is closed by escaping pressure of the compressed gas. The pressure of the compressed gas causes seals to be formed within the poppet valve assembly of the present invention between the exterior of a substantially hollow movable seat plug and the interior of a substantially tubular valve body.

Abstract: A shear protection device for use with a valve, the device comprising a poppet, the poppet including a bore. The poppet including first and second openings at distal ends of the poppet. A seat plug is disposed in the poppet bore, the seat plug is moveable within the poppet bore. A shear tube with first and second ends extending through the first opening of the poppet, the first end abutting the seat plug through the first opening of the poppet and the shear tube displacing the seat plug from the top of the poppet bore. The poppet is attachable to the valve and when attached a gas or liquid passes through the poppet into the valve. When the shear tube is removed, the seat plug forcibly engages the top of the poppet bore and the seat plug blocks the flow of the gas or liquid.

Abstract: A shear valve for use in a fuel delivery system includes a valve body wherein a first end is adapted to be connected to a fuel inlet, and a second oppositely-disposed end is adapted to be connected to a fuel outlet. The valve body is provided with a readily frangible or separable region between the first and second ends. The first end has an emergency shut-off valve biased towards a closed position, and is normally held open by a displaceable abutment having one ball or roller.

Abstract: Apparatus for detecting and abating an overpressure condition and an underpressure condition in a pressurized fluid. A collapsible buckling pin is supported between a valve assembly and a control assembly. The control assembly comprises a retractable support member moveable between an extended position and a retracted position. A biasing member applies a retraction force to urge the support member to the retracted position. A compressive force is applied to the pin by the valve assembly in relation to a pressure of the fluid, and this force nominally retains the support member in the extended position. When the pressure of the fluid exceeds an upper operational limit, the pin is mechanically deformed; conversely, when the pressure falls below a lower operational limit, the pin advances past the support member. In both cases the mechanical displacement of the pin allows the valve assembly to establish a secondary path for the fluid.

Abstract: A breakaway safety shut-off valve including a valve housing and a detachable end portion connected thereto by a region of reduced strength. The housing includes an axial passage and the detachable portion includes an annular shoulder positioned adjacent the region of reduced strength. A ball is guidably displaceable along a circumferential surface of the axial passage between an open position and a closed position, with a spring engaged between the valve housing and the ball to urge the ball toward the closed position. An insert having a plurality of arm segments is engaged between the ball and the annular shoulder to initially maintain the ball in the open position. At least partial detachment of the detachable portion along the region of reduced strength causes at least one of the arm segments to disengage the annular shoulder to permit the spring to displace the ball toward the closed position.

Abstract: The present invention provides a fluid flow prevention apparatus for a wet barrel fire hydrant which is simple and inexpensive to install and effectively cuts off water flow while reducing water hammer. The fluid flow apparatus includes an in-line valve member for closing a flow passageway connected to the hydrant that is operably movable from an open to closed position upon damage to the hydrant. An adjustable damping member controls the rate of closing of the valve member to reduce the effects of water hammer.

Abstract: An automatically operating valve for use for example in a forecourt fuel pump has a body (10) defining a flow passage (20) within which is formed a valve seat (22), the body having a weakened zone (16) around the flow passage (20) such that an impact on the body will fracture the body at the weakened zone. A valve member (30) is mounted for movement within the flow passage (20) and is engageable with the valve seat (22) to close the valve. A closing mechanism effects movement of the valve member (30) to its closed position in the event that the body (10) is fractured at the weakened zone. Further, the valve member (30) is configured to move to its closed position under the influence of excessive flow of liquid through the flow passage (20).

Abstract: This invention relates to a fire extinguishing device, with at least one supply line (4) that is dry with the device in an idle state, through which at least one extinguishing nozzle (1) is connected with an extinguishing fluid supply unit, which fills the supply line (4) with an extinguishing fluid if a fire breaks out. The device according to the invention makes it possible to improve a device of the kind mentioned at the outset with simple means in such a way that the air contained in the supply line can rapidly escape while filling with a high operational safety. This is achieved by connecting the supply line (4) with a discharge channel (6), in which a bursting disk (11), which seals the discharge channel (6) in an idle state, and a valve (9), which closes at a pressure higher than the bursting pressure of the bursting disk (9), are situated one after the other in the discharge direction (F).

Abstract: A fluid safety discharge system for a relief valve having an inlet and an outlet includes a bushing frictionally engaging the relief valve outlet. The relief valve outlet is internally threaded for engaging with a threaded device, such as a discharge line. The bushing may contain a separate body and engagement region for use with hard-plumbed discharge lines. Optionally, an adapter may be used for retrofitting the bushing to an existing relief valve.

Abstract: A mud saver valve is described that features an outer housing that retains upper and lower valve pistons therewithin. The pistons coordinate to provide a check valve so that fluid, such as drilling mud, is permitted to flow in one direction while under pump pressure and works as a relief valve in the event of excessive wellbore pressure when the pump is turned off. Both pistons are provided with apertured plates that selectively define fluid passages through the valve. In the described embodiment, the valve also includes a frangible vent cap that is self-securing and easily replaceable. The cap permits venting of excessive downhole pressures.

Abstract: An automatically operating valve for use for example in a forecourt fuel pump has a body (10) defining a flow passage (20) within which is formed a valve seat (22), the body having a weakened zone (16) around the flow passage (20) such that an impact on the body will fracture the body at the weakened zone. A valve member (30) is mounted for movement within the flow passage (20) and is engageable with the valve seat (22) to close the valve. A closing mechanism effects movement of the valve member (30) to its closed position in the event that the body (10) is fractured at the weakened zone. Further, the valve member (30) is configured to move to its closed position under the influence of excessive flow of liquid through the flow passage (20).

Abstract: A connector (30) in a network of lubrication pipes (31, 32, 33) is provided with a valve (45) that automatically closes off the connector (30) whenever one of the pipes is withdrawn following an incident. Lubricant leaks are thus avoided. The valve plug is cylindrical-conical (46, 47) and it is fitted with a needle (48).

Abstract: A pressure relief device with a permanently attached rupture disk is disclosed. The pressure relief device includes a valve body. The valve body includes an inlet and an outlet defining a flow passage therebetween. A valve mechanism is housed in the valve body and is movable between a closed position where it blocks the flow passage and an open position. A rupture disk configured to burst when exposed to a predetermined pressure is provided. The rupture disk is permanently attached to the valve body to prevent the pressurized fluid from flowing through the flow passage until it bursts. Permanently attaching the rupture disk to the valve body makes them a compact unit to be replaced and discarded together. The rupture disk may be permanently attached to the valve body by welding, soldering, brazing, crimping, or adhesive bonding.

Abstract: A system for controlling with safety the transfer or control of high pressure fluids from a container for use as to an inflatable escape slide. The pressurized container houses valve mechanisms such as a first and second valve mechanism, with the first valve mechanism controlling by actuation the on off flow of high pressure fluids to the second valve mechanism. The second valve mechanism controls the rate of flow by reducing the pressure for delivery to the inflatable escape slide. A safety valve operates in conjunction with the first valve mechanism and upon breaking of the valve mechanisms from the pressurized container to prevent the contents of the pressurized container from rapid escape or uncontrolled release.

Abstract: An inline high pressure fluid release valve is formed by a valve body having a transverse opening forming a fluid passageway interposed in a fluid conductor. A vertically moveable plunger in the valve body includes a disc normally closing the fluid passageway. A pin cage assembly includes a collapsible pin axially connected with a vertically movable valve stem on the plunger is responsive to excess fluid pressure unbalancing a valve stem and collapsing the pin and impact moving the plunger to a fluid passageway open position.

Abstract: A manifold safety valve assembly is disclosed. The assembly includes a manifold having at least two outlets and a flow director valve disposed between the outlets to direct fluid pressure from an inlet to one or the other of the outlets. Safety valve mechanisms are mounted at each manifold outlet. Each safety valve comprises a body having a main valve fluid passage. A rupture disk normally blocks an upstream location of the valve fluid passage. A pressure relief mechanism normally blocks a relatively downstream portion of the main fluid passage. A secondary fluid passage leads from a main fluid passage at a point between the rupture disk and a pressure relief mechanism to a gauge port.

Abstract: An apparatus (10) for helping to protect an occupant of a vehicle (12) that has a side structure (16) includes an inflatable vehicle occupant protection device (14). The inflatable vehicle occupant protection device (14) is inflatable into a position between the side structure of the vehicle and a vehicle occupant. The apparatus (10) includes an inflator (22) for inflating the inflatable vehicle occupant protection device (14) and for maintaining the inflatable vehicle occupant protection device in an inflated condition for at least five seconds. The inflator (22) contains a stored inflation fluid under pressure. The inflation fluid consists essentially of helium.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an automotive vehicle brake system with wheel slip control which is provided with a non-return valve, between a secondary and a primary circuit. Initially, both circuits are evacuated for filling the brake system with pressure fluid, and evacuation of the secondary circuit is effected by way of the valve that opens. The present invention teaches providing this valve with an additional device by way of which the opening pressure of the valve is automatically increased after filling the brake system with brake fluid. The opening pressure shall be increased at least to such an extent that the valve closure member remains in the closing position at least during normal operation of the brake system. It is achieved by this provision that the secondary circuit can be sufficiently evacuated for the purpose of being filled with brake fluid, without a vacuum being generated later in the secondary circuit during a braking operation.

Abstract: A cap for use in a hydraulic control unit. The cap retains a poppet in a fill position within a sleeve. The cap has at least one body. The body has a retaining surface, for insertion into the sleeve for limiting movement of the poppet within the sleeve. The body also has at least one grip for holding the cap within the sleeve.

Abstract: A system for controlling with safety the transfer or control of high pressure fluids from a container for use as to an inflatable escape slide. The pressurized container houses valve mechanisms such as a first and second valve mechanism, with the first valve mechanism controlling by actuation the on off flow of high pressure fluids to the second valve mechanism. The second valve mechanism controls the rate of flow by reducing the pressure for delivery to the inflatable escape slide. A safety valve operates in conjunction with the first valve mechanism and upon breaking of the valve mechanisms from the pressurized container to prevent the contents of the pressurized container from rapid escape or uncontrolled release.

Abstract: A system for controlling with safety the transfer or control of high pressure fluids from a container for use as to an inflatable escape slide. The pressurized container houses valve mechanisms such as a first and second valve mechanism, with the first valve mechanism controlling by actuation the on off flow of high pressure fluids to the second valve mechanism. The second valve mechanism controls the rate of flow by reducing the pressure for delivery to the inflatable escape slide. A safety valve operates in conjunction with the first valve mechanism and upon breaking of the valve mechanisms from the pressurized container to prevent the contents of the pressurized container from rapid escape or uncontrolled release.

Abstract: A flow control valve arrests fluid flow from a primary line to a branch line when flow into the branch line exceeds a predetermined flow rate. In one embodiment for use with an irrigation system, the valve includes a T-fitting. The fitting defines a primary passage, which communicates with irrigation pipes, and a branch passage, which communicates with a riser and sprinkler assembly. A valve seat is located within a housing that couples with the fitting. The valve seat is located within the T-fitting when the valve is assembled. The location of the valve seat within the fitting allows the valve to function even when the riser and/or a portion of the housing is sheared off. A stopper selectively engages a valve seat to inhibit water flow through the branch passage when the flow rate through the branch passage exceeds the predetermined flow rate.

Abstract: A fluid flow control valve within a pop-up sprinkler arrests fluid flow through a riser of the pop-up sprinkler under abnormal flow conditions, such as when the riser is broken or a sprinkler head is removed from the riser. The riser, which is movable relative to a housing of the pop-up sprinkler, is attached to a sprinkler head which distributes water to the surrounding area. A valve seat device is disposed within the riser. A stopper is positioned within a valve passageway defined by the valve seat device. The stopper selectively engages the valve seat to inhibit water flow through the riser under abnormal flow conditions. A biasing device prevents the stopper from engaging with the valve seat under normal flow conditions. A fluid flow control valve assembly within a swing joint of an irrigation system includes a first within a first elbow fitting and a second valve within a second elbow fitting. The first and second elbow fittings are movable relative to each other and together form the swing joint.

Abstract: A flow control valve arrests fluid flow from a primary line to a branch line when flow into the branch line exceeds a predetermined flow rate. In one embodiment for use with an irrigation system, the valve includes a T-fitting. The fitting defines a primary passage, which communicates with irrigation pipes, and a branch passage, which communicates with a riser and sprinkler assembly. A valve seat is located within a housing that couples with the fitting. The valve seat is located within the T-fitting when the valve is assembled. The location of the valve seat within the fitting allows the valve to function even when the riser and/or a portion of the housing is sheared off. A stopper selectively engages a valve seat to inhibit water flow through the branch passage when the flow rate through the branch passage exceeds the predetermined flow rate.

Abstract: A safety apparatus (12) for helping to protect an occupant of a vehicle having a side structure (16) comprises an inflatable protection device (14) having an inflated condition disposed between the vehicle occupant and the side structure. The safety apparatus (12) also comprises an inflator assembly (10) for inflating the protection device (14) and for maintaining the protection device in the inflated condition for at least five seconds. The inflator assembly (10) includes at least one container (30) having gas (52) stored under pressure. In a preferred embodiment, the inflator assembly (10) comprises a primary outlet passage (70) connected with the container for releasing inflation fluid (52) from the inflator assembly at a relatively high rate over a relatively short period of time. The inflator assembly (10) also preferably has a secondary outlet passage (90) connected with the container for releasing inflation fluid from the inflator assembly at a relatively low rate for about five to ten seconds.

Abstract: A flow control valve arrests fluid flow from a primary line to a branch line when flow into the branch line exceeds a predetermined flow rate. In one embodiment for use with an irrigation system, the valve includes a T-fitting. The fitting defines a primary passage, which communicates with irrigation pipes, and a branch passage, which communicates with a riser and sprinkler assembly. A valve seat is located within a housing that couples with the fitting. The valve seat is located within the T-fitting when the valve is assembled. The location of the valve seat within the fitting allows the valve to function even when the riser and/or a portion of the housing is sheared off. A stopper selectively engages a valve seat to inhibit water flow through the branch passage when the flow rate through the branch passage exceeds the predetermined flow rate.

Abstract: A shut-off valve interactive between a sprinkler head and a riser pipe, and adapted to stop water flow in the event the sprinkler head is inadvertently broken off, includes a coupling sleeve suitably threaded to engage the sprinkler head and riser pipe, and having an annular frangible zone. A sealing member movably confined within the sleeve abuts the sprinkler head and is thereby held in a stand-by position which permits water flow. However, when the sprinkler head is broken off at the site of the frangible zone, water pressure forces the sealing member upwardly into abutment with an apertured washer, thereby stopping water flow.

Abstract: A pressure relief device mounts to heat exchange coils having fluid flowing therethrough. A base has an orifice formed therethrough extending through an orifice in the coil to the interior of the coil. A cover attaches to the base with bolts or other attachment means. A diaphragm strip inserts between the cover and the base to close off the orifice in the base. An o-ring or other gasket may also be utilized to seal the structure. When a rupture through the diaphragm occurs due to pressure buildup, the diaphragm strip may be advanced to reclose the orifice.

Abstract: A shutoff valve assembly interposed in a fluid line for monitoring fluid flow volume and closing a fluid conductor, in the event of fluid flow volume above a predetermined value. The valve assembly contains a valve seat and a normally open piston valve for sealing with the seat and includes opposing piston rods each slidably supported at one end portion by end caps. The piston valve is normally fluid pressure balanced by equal upstream and downstream rod end surface areas. A plate is secured to the body by posts in axial spaced relation with respect to the downstream end portion of one piston rod for supporting a pressure collapsible rod-like pin in accordance with Euler's law for slender columns, axially interposed between the plate and the adjacent piston valve rod.

Abstract: A gas line shut-off assembly which is automatically actuated in the event of a catastrophic break of a gas line, wherein gas is retained safely inside the remaining intact portion of the gas line. The gas line shut-off assembly is preferably composed of two mutually cooperating components, a breakaway and a shut-off. The breakaway has a weakened wall section. When connected to a gas line, the breakaway serves as a weakest location of the gas line so that should the gas pipe thereof be subjected to shear forces sufficient to break (ie., rupture) it, the gas line will break firstly at the breakaway. The shut-off is located upstream of the breakaway and is composed of a valve body and a perforated piston. The piston has a head and the valve body has seat, wherein the piston is movable in the valve body between a rest location and a seated location. At the seated location the piston head is sealably seated at the seat, thereby preventing gas flow through the valve body.

Abstract: A valve device for use downhole is described as comprising a body member and a channel through the body member through which fluid can flow. A moveable member is mounted within the body member, and comprises an obturating member for selectively obturating the channel. The moveable member is moveable between a first position in which the channel is not obturated and fluid flow through the channel is permitted, and a second position in which the channel is obturated and fluid flow through the channel is substantially prevented.A method of preventing the fluid flow downhole is also described as comprising the steps of inserting a downhole tool comprising a valve device according to the present invention downhole and moving the moveable member from the first to the second position such that the obturating member obturates the channel.

Abstract: A one-piece polymer plastic shut-off valve that includes a conduit with a first end having a sealing surface thereon and an engagement surface for connection to a fluid system and a plug with a further sealing surface that is yieldably supported in a spaced condition from the sealing surface of the conduit by elongatable supports to allow fluid to flow through said conduit under a first flow condition when the elongated supports are not extended and to prevent flow of fluid through said conduit under a second flow condition when the elongated supports are extended.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are closures that are formed via an injection molding process with a thin breakable web. When they are first placed in a fluid conduit and exposed to line pressure the web will break open so as to thereby create a duckbilled type check valve. Thus, the closure can provide a seal during long-term storage prior to use. However, once used it functions as a check valve.

Abstract: A pop-up sprinkler head is provided with a mechanism that shuts off the water when the nozzle portion of the riser is removed for maintenance. A stopper element reciprocally mounted in the riser moves to a shut off position when the nozzle is removed. A valve seat member and a stopper element may be provided to retrofit the riser of an existing sprinkler head.

Abstract: A downhole cut-off valve used for cementing a casing string, comprising: an outer hollow body, having a top end connected at the lower end of the casing string, an inner hole, an inner surface and a projecting shoulder forming on the inner surface and extending inwardly; an inner hollow body, arranged slidably in said outer hollow body and having an inner hole, a wall with a plurality of through holes and a projection forming on the wall and below the through holes and extending outwardly, the projection being adapted to fit with the projecting shoulder of said outer body to define a preliminary position of said inner body with respect to said outer body; the longitudinal positions of the through holes and the projection being arranged in such a manner that the projecting shoulder of said outer body is located therebetween when said inner body is placed in said outer body and will at least partially cover the through holes in response to the movement of said inner body; a relief member, blocking the upper end

Abstract: The present invention relates to tools for use in wellbores which are actuated by means of actuating balls. The invention provides a method of actuating a tool located in a wellbore, the method comprising the sequential steps of: (a) locating a frangible actuating ball (2) on a seat, the seat being provided in the tool for receiving the actuating ball (2); (b) pumping fluid down a tubing string attached to the tool so as to apply a force to the seat and thereby actuate the tool, the force being transmitted to the seat through the actuating ball (2); and (c) breaking the actuating ball (2) to permit fluid to flow through the seat. The invention has the advantage over the prior art of providing means for actuating a downhole tool with an actuating ball (2) so that the actuating ball (2) does not form an undesirable obstruction once the tool has been actuated.

Abstract: A tank safety valve which is used to seal off fluid or gas flow from the tank when an accident occurs. If the tank is damaged, such as by accidentally dropping the tank, it is most likely that the valve, which protrudes from the tank, (and is therefore most susceptible to damage) will allow the contents of the tank to leak. In order to prevent this type of leakage (from a broken valve), the body of the valve is provided with a weakened section. Internally, the valve is provided with a spring biased plunger or check valve plug which will be released when the weakened section is broken. The plunger and check valve plug will be moved upward by the force of a spring to block the opening which leads out of the tank.

Abstract: A spool valve controls the release of gas from a pressure vessel into an airbag upon the release of the gas in the event of a collision. The valve uses pilot pressure acting on either end of the spool to actuate the spool. The position of the spool within the valve determines the flow rate through the valve.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for preventing over-pressurization of vessel during filling with a fluid where temperature of the vessel would cause the fluid to flash or rapidly expand on contact. A shut off device is placed in a conduit between the fluid source and the vessel being filled, the shut off device including a flow control piston that is held in position to permit fluid flow. Fluid pressure from the displacement space in the vessel is provided on both end of the piston. When a condition of over-pressurization occurs in the vessel a rupture disc associated with one end of the piston fails and causes a depressurization on that end of the piston causing it to move to a position where further filling of the vessel is prevented. The piston is positioned by a buckling pin and can be reset after over-pressurization of the vessel is connected and filling can resume.

Abstract: A frangible hydraulic fuse includes a fitting secured to a sleeve by a plurality of frangible pins. In normal operation, hydraulic fluid flows through the fuse through radial ports of a sleeve to which the fitting is engaged by the frangible pins. A compression spring urges a poppet slideably positioned in the sleeve to a position out of engagement with the radial ports. Upon rupture of the frangible pins, the fitting is released and hydraulic fluid may flow unimpeded through the radial ports creating a pressure drop which causes the slideable poppet to move to a position overlying and closing the radial ports.

Abstract: A pressure relief valve for a fluid pressure system having a pressure vent. A body is aligned with and in fluid communication with the pressure vent, the body terminating in a cylindrical portion having a circular opening. A bonnet is in axial alignment with the circular opening and a central shaft extends axially within the bonnet. The bonnet is stationary with respect to the body. A shroud, spaced from and entirely surrounding the bonnet, is axially aligned with the bonnet to allow unobstructed fluid flow in a space parallel to the central shaft between the bonnet and the shroud. The shroud is free-standing except for a radially extending flange attachable to the body. A spindle head disk extends radially from the shaft and has a circular edge seatable in the circular opening of the lip.

Abstract: A safety shut off valve has a tubular body with an axial guide therein. A poppet is secured to a shaft slidably supported by the axial guide. A tubular seat received within the tubular body has a seating surface against which the poppet seats when in the closed position. The body including a stop member that engages a plunger portion extending from the poppet to hold the poppet open. The body having a circumferential area of weakness therearound so that if the body is severed along the area of weakness, the stop member is removed and the poppet is allowed to close to prevent fluid flow through the body.

Abstract: An excessive fluid pressure safety valve for a fluid processing heat exchanger transferring thermal energy to fluids in the heat exchanger by piping extending through the heat exchanger is formed by a valve, normally maintained open by a pressure responsive collapsible pin, interposed in the thermal energy conductor upstream from the heat exchanger. Fluid pressure above a predetermined value in a tube connecting the heat exchanger with the valve axially moves a piston in the valve toward and collapses the pin to close the valve.

Abstract: A toxic and corrosive fluid monitoring relief valve is formed by a valve body containing inline fluid pressure relief valves respectively opened in response to a first and a second fluid pressure. Fluid pressure in excess of the first fluid pressure opens the first valve by rupturing a pin normally maintaining the first valve closed to allow fluid contained by the valve body, to act on the second downstream relief valve. The second downstream valve being spring-loaded to open at the second predetermined fluid pressure and exhaust fluid pressure in a blow down action and reclose the valve when the excess fluid pressure has been reduced.

Abstract: An air bag inflation which includes a gas source and a gas outlet opening for allowing flow of gas from the gas source into the air bag wherein the flow of gas is controlled with a valve assembly including a piston disposed in a cylinder and features a piston against which the gas acts to cause movement of the piston in a first direction in the cylinder to provide an increased flow of gas through the gas outlet opening and further includes a spring disposed in the path of movement of the piston so that as the piston moves in the cylinder the spring provides resistance to the movement of the piston.

Abstract: An air bag inflator which includes a gas source and a gas outlet opening for allowing flow of gas from the gas source into the air bag wherein the flow of gas is controlled with a valve assembly including a piston disposed in a cylinder and features a piston which has a pintle shaped surface against which the gas acts to cause movement of the piston in a first direction in the cylinder to provide an increased flow of gas through the gas outlet opening and further includes a spring disposed in the path of movement of the piston so that as the piston moves in the cylinder the spring provides resistance to the movement of the piston.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a rupture disk fragment collection trap for minimizing the loss of refrigerant from a mechanical refrigeration system. A mechanical refrigeration system generally includes a storage vessel for the storage of a refrigerant, which to comply with applicable safety codes requires a pressure relief unit for venting an over-pressurized storage vessel. The pressure relief unit includes a fragmentary carbon rupture disk that provides a mechanical seal to contain the refrigerant, prevent the infiltration of contaminants into the refrigeration system, and rupture to relieve the over-pressurized state of the storage vessel. A mechanical re-seating type pressure relief valve is positioned downstream from the carbon rupture disk to control the flow of refrigerant into the atmosphere. The valve and the rupture disk are connected in fluid communication by a sealed passageway containing a rupture disk fragment collection trap.

Abstract: An emergency valve is provided to shut off the flow of fuel in the event a fuel dispenser is struck with sufficient force to rupture the fuel conduit means therefor. The valve comprises a lower housing connected to a source of pressurized fuel and an upper housing connected to conduit means which extend to a dispensing nozzle. The upper housing has a groove which defines the plane of a weakened portion. When the impacted with a relatively high lateral force, the portion of the upper housing, above the groove, will separate, or break away. A normally open, main control, flapper valve is mounted in the lower housing. A poppet check valve is mounted in the upper housing. When the separable portion of the upper housing breaks away, both the flapper valve and the check valve automatically close to minimize spillage of fuel. A bleed valve is provided to relieve pressure in the fuel conduit means to which the separable portion of the upper housing is connected, in the event a fire occurs upon its breaking away.

Abstract: The present invention, in one embodiment, has a valve body within which is mounted a stem support; a plunger with a stem which is movably mounted for movement in the stem support to move a rounded head of the plunger to sealingly contact a sealing surface within the valve body thereby preventing flow through the valve; a piston recess in the stem which receives and holds a top portion of a piston; the piston (or some part connected thereto or formed integrally thereof) held immobile by one or more holding devices (e.g. bars, plates, pins, rods, etc.) which, in one embodiment extend through the piston and into the stem support or into a piston housing and which are frangible, erodible, degradable or destroyable either by action of a hydrostatic head of fluid on a bottom surface of the piston or by chemical or thermal attack and degradation.

Abstract: An emergency shut-off valve is designed to be retrofitted into an existing gasoline nozzle by interposing the shut-off valve between the handle assembly and nozzle assembly of an existing gasoline dispensing nozzle. The inventive shut-off valve is spring biased in a closing direction and is held open by a protrusion extending proximal of the nozzle portion of the existing gasoline dispensing nozzle so that with the shut-off valve assembled between the existing handle assembly and nozzle assembly, the valve is held open. A sleeve having a weakened annulus holds the nozzle assembly onto the shut-off valve. If a driver drives away from a gasoline dispensing pump with the nozzle remaining within the gas tank opening, the weakened area fails allowing the sleeve to separate and the nozzle assembly to remove itself from the shut-off valve causing the shut-off valve to instantaneously close preventing fuel spillage. Embodiments of vapor recovery structure are also disclosed.