Abstract: Method in which an electromagnetic valve in an electronically controlled pressure control device is calibrated, wherein the differential pressure prevailing at the valve which is to be calibrated is modulated periodically, and wherein the electrical signal which is present at the valve coil of the valve is evaluated at the valve coil or at an additional measuring coil for the purpose of calibration. Also disclosed is an electronically controlled motor vehicle brake pressure control device in which the above method can be carried out.

Abstract: A static test rig, for a safety valve having an inlet and a disc movable to open and close the valve, comprises a test table having an aperture therethrough over which the valve can be mounted with its inlet open to the aperture, a gas chamber arranged under the table to admit compressed gas to the aperture thereby to apply a gas pressure to the valve disc, a push rod extending through the gas chamber and arranged to extend through the valve inlet and actuation means arranged to apply an axial push force to the push rod thereby to apply a push force to the disc simultaneously with the gas pressure.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention are directed toward pressure controllers and calibrators for setting or measuring pressures in test devices. In one embodiment, the pressure controller contains a dual reference pressure controller. The dual reference pressure controller is operable to maintain two different pressures relative to a reference pressure. The first pressure being a relatively fixed amount greater than the reference pressure and the second pressure being a relatively fixed amount less than the reference pressure.

Abstract: In a method or system for function testing of a safety valve in engineering plant, it is tested whether the safety valve travels from a normal position to a predetermined final position in a certain operating situation of the plant. A bypass the valve bypasses the safety valve and assumes an idle position in a normal operation of the plant and a predetermined test position for function testing of the safety valve. The test position of the bypass valve is established such that a predetermined fluid flow through the bypass valve is permitted.

Abstract: A diagnostic device for at least one pneumatic valve actuator arrangement, comprises a pressure sensor, a volumetric flow sensor, a control means for producing control signals for the valve actuator arrangement and position sensors for detecting the position of at least one moving actuator member. The diagnostic device also includes a first diagnostic module for leak detection, a second diagnostic module for the detection of a choking effect in pneumatic supply and venting lines and at least one third diagnostic module for the detection of load and friction changes in the case of the moving actuator member and/or of valve switching faults, switching means being provided for deactivating the at least one third diagnostic module in the case of the detection of a fault by the first and/or second diagnostic module.

Abstract: A method, apparatus and system for controlling transmission clutch system output pressures is provided. A transmission control unit and a pressure control device including an electro-hydraulic valve and a pressure switch cooperate to provide self-calibrating clutch pressure control systems.

Abstract: In a method for testing the functionality of an actuator in an actuating system, especially for the actuator of a valve (2) in a safety-oriented circuit in which the partial stroke test method is used, where the actuator is moved briefly by its drive element (8) such as a valve rod over a portion of its actuating path to test its functionality, the goal is to prevent the actuating system from closing too far during the performance of the partial stroke test method. This is accomplished in that, to prevent the actuating system from closing too far, the drive element (8) with the actuator is driven in such a way that it can be moved only within permitted limits during the partial stroke test. The actuating path of the actuator (7, 8) is limited by a mechanical stop (15).

Abstract: A method for calibrating a valve having a valve element movable between a flow blocking position and a flow passing position includes pressurizing fluid directed to the valve, increasing a current directed to the valve for controlling a position of the valve element, and sensing a pressure of the fluid. The method for calibrating the valve also includes determining if a time-derivative of the sensed fluid pressure is greater than a predetermined threshold over a predetermined period of time, and determining a cracking point current command directed to the valve. The cracking point current command is directed to the valve when the time-derivative of the sensed fluid pressure is greater than the predetermined threshold.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for testing the functionality of automatic air valves positioned at high points of a pipeline system are provided. The invention generally provides a testing flange and a process for performing various fluid pressure tests to determine whether automatic air valves are properly releasing and/or stabilizing air within a pipeline system.

Abstract: The present invention accommodates differences in cracking pressures between check valves by determining a pressure on the input of a check valve that corresponds to a predetermined flow rate at the output of the check valve. A container is incrementally pressurized and the vacuum at a point on the output side of the check valve is monitored. Once fluid begins to pass through the check valve, the vacuum drops. At the predetermined flow rate, the pump cannot maintain a predetermined vacuum level since it cannot exceed a maximum speed. At this point the pressure applied to the container corresponds to the predetermined flow rate. An offset is added to the pressure to determine the minimum operating pressure.

Abstract: A method for calibrating a proportional solenoid valve used in the propulsion system of a windrower, wherein a programmable control module in connection with a valve and a sensor is programmed as part of an automatic calibration routine for directing test control signals to the valve for causing a predetermined displacement of the hydraulic cylinder, the test control signals having values which vary based on the actual displacement of the hydraulic cylinder as compared with a predetermined value of displacement, and operating the hydraulic cylinder using the test control signal that causes the predetermined displacement of the element. The predetermined displacements correspond to the crack points, or the electrical signal levels at which two ports of interest are just beginning to open to one another from a closed position. Of particular interest are the crack points from the supply pressure port to each of the work ports and from the tank port to each of the work ports.

Abstract: A variable function voting solenoid-operated valve apparatus is provide, wherein the apparatus includes a first solenoid-operated valve, a second solenoid-operated valve and a bypass valve disposed in mutual fluid communication, wherein one or more of said first solenoid-operated valve, said second solenoid-operated valve and said bypass valve further comprises one or more air-to-move valve actuators; an air supply for delivering a supply of compressed air to said one or more air-to-move valve actuators; a plurality of pressure sensors, including a first pressure sensor disposed in fluid communication with said first solenoid-operated valve, a second pressure sensor in fluid communication with said second solenoid-operated valve, and a third pressure sensor disposed in fluid communication with said bypass valve; and an exhaust vent for venting pressure accumulated within one or more of said first solenoid-operated valve, said second solenoid-operated valve and said bypass valve to an external environment.

Abstract: An adjusting element with a cylinder which is closed at one end and filled with a fluid under pressure, wherein a piston which is displaceable axially in the cylinder divides the cylinder into a first work space and a second work space, and a piston rod is arranged at one side of the piston and guided out of the other end of the cylinder through the first work space in a sealed manner by a sealing and guiding device. The adjusting element has a measuring device for detecting the piston rod position and the length of extension of the adjusting element.

Abstract: A device for analysis of a sample, the device comprising: a first layer having a network of passages and chambers through which fluid is caused to flow during analysis; a second layer in which a plurality of chambers are formed, the chambers containing fluids for use in the analysis; an inlet in either the first or the second layer into which a sample to be analysed can, in use, be placed, and a third layer providing a frangible fluid seal between the chambers of the second layer and the network of the first layer so that, in use, a break in the third layer permits fluid from a chamber in the second layer to pass into the network of the first layer to enable analysis of the sample to be carried out.

Abstract: A Safety Instrumented System for use with a process control system receives pressure of process fluid in the process piping. A valve positioner positions a valve which controls flow of process fluid through the process piping. The valve positioner is caused to perform a partial stroke of the valve or otherwise introduce a perturbation into the process. A resulting change in sensed pressure due to the perturbation is used to diagnose operation of the process.

Abstract: A servovalve assembly includes a motor having a flapper shaft. A flapper couples to a first end of the flapper shaft such that the flapper shaft orients the flapper between a first nozzle and a second nozzle of the servovalve assembly. An adjustment assembly adjusts a position of the flapper relative to the nozzles of the servovalve. The adjustment assembly enables a servovalve manufacturer to set the flapper of the servovalve at a null position without disassembling the servovalve. Rather, the manufacturer is capable of simply installing the adjustment assembly and deforming an arm portion of the adjustment assembly for proper null position calibration.

Abstract: A valve test apparatus, a solenoid valve test method and a venturi valve test method are provided. The valve test apparatus may include a gas supply unit, a solenoid valve holding unit, a first measurement unit, a venturi valve holding unit, a second measurement unit, a timer unit and/or a power supply unit. The solenoid valve holding unit may be connected to one end of the gas supply unit. The first measurement unit may be connected to the solenoid valve holding unit. The venturi valve holding unit, on which a venturi valve to be tested may be arranged. The venturi valve may be selectively connected to the solenoid valve holding unit together with the first measurement unit. The second measurement unit may be connected to the venturi valve. The timer unit may measure a time interval between when the solenoid valve is activated and when a measured value by the first measurement unit or second measurement unit is equivalent to a desired value.

Abstract: A system for measuring and controlling the concentration of a chemical agent in a solution has a reaction cell for receiving a sample, a titrant dropper for releasing one or more drops of titrant into the sample, a first photosensor for sensing disruptions of light for every drop of titrant released, and a controller that communicates with the photosensor and computes the concentration of the chemical agent based on the number of disruptions of light at the photosensor. The present invention also includes a method for sensing and controlling the concentration of a chemical agent in a solution. The method includes having a sample containing the chemical agent, triggering the release of a number of drops of titrant into the sample, detecting the number of drops released into the sample, and computing the concentration of the chemical agent in the sample based on the number of drops of titrant released into the sample.

Abstract: A method for calibrating a valve having a valve element movable between a flow blocking position and a flow passing position includes pressurizing fluid directed to the valve, increasing a current directed to the valve for controlling a position of the valve element, and sensing a pressure of the fluid. The method for calibrating the valve also includes determining if a time-derivative of the sensed fluid pressure is greater than a predetermined threshold over a predetermined period of time, and determining a cracking point current command directed to the valve. The cracking point current command is directed to the valve when the time-derivative of the sensed fluid pressure is greater than the predetermined threshold.

Abstract: A method and apparatus or arrangement, for monitoring the operating characteristics of valves, principally to monitor for failure of a valve. The method including measuring a pressure differential across a valve 1 and comparing the measured differential with a required differential. If the measured differential is acceptable relative to the required differential, the valve is deemed to be operating acceptably. If the differential is not acceptable relative to the required differential, then further monitoring in the form of flow sensing takes place and is compared relative to required flow characteristics. The method employs a comparison of the pressure differential and the sensed flow characteristics to determine whether the valve is operating acceptably.

Abstract: A method, apparatus, and computer program are provided for identifying possible indicators of a defective valve. The method, apparatus, and computer program decompose a signal having a plurality of process variable measurements into a plurality of resolution levels. The process variable measurements are associated with operation of a valve. The method, apparatus, and computer program group the resolution levels into a plurality of groups. The method, apparatus, and computer program identify one or more defect indicators for at least some of the resolution levels using the groups. The one or more defect indicators are associated with a possible defect in the valve.

Abstract: Systems and processes for fluid regulation may provide diagnostic information that is useful for evaluating the condition and/or needed repairs/maintenance for fluid regulation systems. In particular implementations, a system and process for fluid regulation may include the ability to receive a representation of an input signal to an electric-to-pressure converter for facilitating positioning of a fluid regulator component, the electric-to-pressure converter adapted to be part of a fluid regulation system including a fluid regulator and a fluid regulator controller, and to determine at least one fluid regulation system condition based on the converter input signal.

Abstract: A servovalve assembly includes a motor having a flapper shaft. A flapper couples to a first end of the flapper shaft such that the flapper shaft orients the flapper between a first nozzle and a second nozzle of the servovalve assembly. An adjustment assembly adjusts a position of the flapper relative to the nozzles of the servovalve. The adjustment assembly enables a servovalve manufacturer to set the flapper of the servovalve at a null position without disassembling the servovalve. Rather, the manufacturer is capable of simply installing the adjustment assembly and deforming an arm portion of the adjustment assembly for proper null position calibration.

Abstract: An apparatus for testing hydraulic pressure relief valves has a fixture body with an internal cavity sized to receive the valve completely within the fixture body. A closure may be secured to the body to seal the valve within the cavity. The apparatus further includes inlet and outlet ports for providing a flow of high-pressure hydraulic fluid though the cavity, and a pressure port for coupling pressure monitoring instrumentation to the cavity. When a valve is installed within the apparatus and the inlet is coupled to a source of high-pressure hydraulic fluid, the actuation pressure of the valve may be determined by monitoring the instrumentation.

Abstract: A multiple port valve integrated with the function of the sample shut off valve is disclosed. The integration of the sample shut off function eliminates extra plumbing and labor costs associated with a separate sample shut off valve. Additionally, the multiple port valve integrated with the function of the sample shut off valve provides a shorter equilibration time and less tubing volume.

Abstract: A variable function voting solenoid-operated valve apparatus is provided having both high safety availability and high plant reliability that does not require a plant system to be bypassed during testing. Also provided is a variable function voting solenoid-operated valve apparatus wherein initiation of a safety action will occur only if each of a pair of operatively associated solenoid-operated valves in the apparatus are actuated, and wherein either of the solenoid valves can singly default to a pre-designated safety action without inadvertently actuating the process valve and isolating or venting the process fluid. Also provided is a variable function voting solenoid-operated valve apparatus wherein either a “1 out of 1 with hot stand-by” operational mode or a “2 out of 2 with high diagnostics” operational mode may be selected by an operator using a logic control system depending on the technical requirements of a given plant environment.

Abstract: A control device test system including an electrical switch and a device controller, wherein the device controller has a processor, a memory coupled to the processor, and an auxiliary input coupled to the processor and adapted to receive a binary signal from the electrical switch. A routine is stored in the memory of the processor and is adapted to be executed on the processor to cause a control device test to be performed in response to the receipt of the binary signal at the input.

Abstract: An apparatus for dosing lubricant into a compressed air flow includes a lubricant container, a pneumatically operated lubricant pump, an injection channel, a non-return valve interposed between the outlet of the pump and the injection channel, and an electronic sensor cooperating with or coupled to the non-return valve so that the sensor emits an electrical signal responsive and corresponding to the stroke travel of the non-return valve. When the pump carries out a lubricant injection cycle, the pressurized lubricant pushes open the non-return valve, flows into the injection channel and from there into a main channel through which compressed air flows. The travel of the valve is sensed by the sensor, and the sensor signal indicates whether the lubricant injection was proper or faulty, e.g. if the proper amount of lubricant was injected.

Abstract: A ball valve assembly of the quarter-turn type for use in isolating an electronic level transmitter comprising a valve body having an inner chamber, an inlet or tank-side port, an outlet or transmitter side port, a valve body axis defined by the inlet and outlet ports, and a substantially spherical ball valve member having an inner surface forming a through passage mounted in the chamber for selective rotation between an open position and a closed position. The present invention allows for flushing the diaphragm face of a level transmitter with the ball valve member in an open position via a purge port positioned on the valve body and a purge passage connecting the through passage and a seating face portion of the outer surface of the ball valve member. The present invention is provided with a full port opening through the ball valve assembly for enhancing the accuracy of level transmitter readings and valve backflush capabilities.

Abstract: Process for calibration of the mobile core spring of a solenoid valve comprising an electromagnet subassembly associated with a pneumatic switching subassembly with a valve plug, the valve plug being moved in the body of the pneumatic switching subassembly firstly by a spring located in the mobile core of the electromagnet subassembly through a pusher, and secondly by a spring located under the valve plug and bearing around the lower seating of the pneumatic switching subassembly, this process comprising the following steps: a force sensor is put into position, either at a predetermined distance from the upper face of the mobile core, this distance being equivalent to the actual travel distance of the mobile core, or directly in contact with the face of the core when it is required to adjust the spring based on its force after the travel distance (core in contact on the yoke); the spring is installed in a reaming providing for this purpose in the axis of the mobile core: an elastic split pin is put into po

Abstract: A test fixture for testing directional pilot valves as used in connection with turbine engine thrust reversers, and an associated method of use. In a particular embodiment, the test fixture has a base and at least one support mounted to the base to support the directional pilot valve. At least one fastener permits attachment of the directional pilot valve to the support. An adjustable actuator is also mounted to the base and is capable of stroking the directional pilot valve to simulate valve positions that may be encountered in operation of the valve. The adjustable actuator is also capable of maintaining a force, as set by a technician, against the directional pilot valve.

Abstract: The Smart Resolution Valve Pressure Control System allows any pressure control system using valve state pulsing to modify airflow at an optimum and consistent range of operation thereby enhancing control accuracy and increasing the useable cycle life of any valve combination used.

Abstract: A method of calibrating a solenoid operated pressure control valve by sweeping the solenoid with increasing current from a minimum to a maximum and measuring and recording the signal pressure output and current at selected increments of current and storing the data pairs in a first table. The solenoid is similarly swept with decreasing current from the maximum to a minimum and the signal output pressure measured at selected increments of current and the data pairs stored in a second table. Upon installation of the valve in an hydraulic system to be controlled, the commanded signal pressure output Pc, if greater than the instantaneous signal pressure output P2 is compared with the closest data pairs in the first table and, by interpolation, the required solenoid energization current Ie determined.

Abstract: An apparatus for testing hydraulic pressure relief valves has a fixture body with an internal cavity sized to receive the valve completely within the fixture body. A closure may be secured to the body to seal the valve within the cavity. The apparatus further includes inlet and outlet ports for providing a flow of high-pressure hydraulic fluid though the cavity, and a pressure port for coupling pressure monitoring instrumentation to the cavity. When a valve is installed within the apparatus and the inlet is coupled to a source of high-pressure hydraulic fluid, the actuation pressure of the valve may be determined by monitoring the instrumentation.

Abstract: A pressure regulator having a valve cartridge adapted to be removably held within its housing, said cartridge having a frame carrying and positioning a valve seat, a valve member, a valve stem, and a spring. The valve cartridge ensures correct spacing between the valve member and the valve seat. Difficulties in pressure regulation may be quickly rectified and pressure flow characteristics may be altered by removing and replacing the valve cartridge. Another aspect of the invention discloses a multiple pressure regulator comprising: a housing adapted to removably house two valve cartridges; an inlet opening into the housing; an outlet opening from the housing; and two valve cartridges adapted to be removably held within the housing. Each of said cartridges similar to those described above.

Abstract: A universal regulator tester is disclosed wherein a bleed valve is used to exhaust pressurized gas through an exhaust passage that is designed and configured to simulate the pneumatic action of an actuation of a marker.

Abstract: In order to set the nozzle opening pressure for an injection nozzle, in particular for a diesel injection nozzle, to an accuracy of around ±1%, the method provides that the injection needle is first pressed against the valve seat with a closing force (Fz), and then when two different test pressures (pU, p1, p2) are applied to the injection nozzle the test forces (Fz, F1, F2) effective on the injector needle are measured, with the pressure stage (A) being determined from the measured test forces and the test pressures applied, and finally using the pressure stage (A) a nozzle valve with a suitable valve spring force (Fv) is selected to correspond to the desired nozzle opening pressure (pD).

Abstract: Process for calibration of the mobile core spring of a solenoid valve comprising an electromagnet subassembly associated with a pneumatic switching subassembly with a valve plug, the valve plug being moved in the body of the pneumatic switching subassembly firstly by a spring located in the mobile core of the electromagnet subassembly through a pusher, and secondly by a spring located under the valve plug and bearing around the lower seating of the pneumatic switching subassembly, this process comprising the following steps:

Abstract: An emergency water system testing system (20) is provided which includes a retaining tank (21) having inlet conduits (23 and 24), a vent (25), and an outlet conduit (26). The testing system also includes a support carriage (33) having four lockable wheels (34) and a flow measuring device (36). The system may be coupled to the coupler valve (14) of an emergency water system (12) so that water expelled from the emergency water system is contained on sight while the flow rate of the water is determined. In this manner the water expelled from the water system may then be moved to a remote location and controllably discharged.

Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus and method for determining a status of a relief valve located within a fluid system having a pump and an actuator valve. The fluid system 102 is located on an earth moving machine, and the pump delivers fluid to the actuator 110, 112 through the actuator valve 108. The system 102 includes a pressure compensation assembly 130 adapted to control the fluid pressure of the system by bypassing fluid flow. The system 102 also includes a relief valve, and a pressure sensor. The method includes the steps of positioning the actuator valve in a closed position, deactivating the pressure compensation assembly, and sensing a relief pressure of the system.

Abstract: Operation of an electrically operated valve is calibrated by applying a gradually increasing electric current to the valve. While that is occurring pressure at either the inlet or outlet of the valve is measured to detect when the valve opens. When the valve opens the level of the electric current then being applied to the valve is employed to determine an initial current level to use subsequently whenever the valve is to be opened.

Abstract: A diagnostic system for a valve (2) that can be actuated by a position controller via a drive. The diagnostic system includes a device (14) provided for recording, storing, and evaluating, body sound spectra on the valve. In order to enable a valve to be diagnosed in a particularly reliable manner, a body sound spectrum which is recorded when the intact valve (2) is slightly open is stored in the device (14) provided for recording, storing, and evaluating, whereby the valve can be closed for diagnostic purposes and the resemblance of the recorded body sound spectrum to the stored body sound spectrum is used as a criterion for evaluating a non-sealing condition of the valve.

Abstract: A valve positioner system that includes one or more unique control methods and devices, including several routines to facilitate the continuous maintenance, calibration and adjustment requirements of the valve. The positioner system may utilize pressure and position feedback signals to monitor the valve. The positioner system may utilize an external controller for various diagnostic and other routines. The positioner system can provide automatic positioning and can operate in a manual operating mode or an automatic operating mode. The positioner system can diagnose the valve while the valve process is running or during a maintenance operation. The positioner system can provide nonlinear control of the valve position. The positioner system can self-tune and self-characterize the valve to assure uniform position control. The positioner system can provide valve control through pressure feedback when a position feedback fails or other diagnosed problems.

Abstract: A pressure regulating device for high pressure fuel systems includes a pressure sensing element attached directly to a pressure chamber. The pressure sensing element includes a semiconductor element that deflects in response to a deflection of a portion of the pressure caused by fuel pressure within the pressure chamber. A coil is electrically connected with the pressure sensing element and is configured to generate a magnetic field that moves a magnetic armature to control fuel pressure.

Abstract: A method for manufacturing a cylinder interior fuel injection valve and an apparatus for adjusting a fuel injection amount used therefor may sufficiently cope with a fluctuation in fuel pressure or combustion gas pressure that would occur in an actual engine. According to this manufacturing method, a position of an adjuster is adjusted (step 110), a fuel injection amount is measured (step 111), and it is judged whether or not the measured value of the fuel injection amount falls within a range of a rated value (step 112). Then, if the fuel injection amount is out of the range of the rated value, the process is returned back to the step 110, and if it falls within the range of the rated value, the process shifts to a subsequent step 113. Subsequently, a spring force of a valve closing spring is measured (step 113), and it is judged whether or not the measured value of the spring force falls within a control range (step 114).

Abstract: A diagnostic test unit for deterministically measuring one or more parameters, such as dead band, dead time, response time, gain, or overshoot, of a process control device that is connected in a process control loop during operation of a process includes a switch controller, a signal generator, a switch, a response accumulator mechanism, and an analyzer mechanism. The switch controller monitors a process signal during operation of the process to determine whether the process signal is substantially stable. In the event that the process signal is substantially stable, the switch replaces a control signal with a diagnostic test signal generated by the signal generator. The response accumulator is in communication with the process control loop to obtain an indication of the response of the process control device to the diagnostic test signal. The analyzer unit then determines the device parameter from the test signal and the response indication.